In a not-so-surprising twist in the Chicago White Sox merchandise landscape, Pope Leo XIV has emerged as the hottest ticket in jerseys and merchandise, outpacing even the team’s actual players in current sales. According to a recent Sports Business Journal report, the Pope is leading the charge in White Sox merchandise.
It’s no secret that the White Sox have experienced a few challenging seasons on the field. Poor performance and underachievement have led to disappointment among fans, yet interest in team jerseys is being revitalized through a unique angle. Pope Leo XIV has become a symbol of hope, attracting attention from fans looking for a reason to rally around the team.
Such a significant increase in merchandise sales is certainly noteworthy, especially when combined with the realization that actual White Sox players, typically the stars of the jersey sales charts, are struggling to maintain fan interest and engagement.
This year, similar to last season’s historically poor performance, the White Sox’s on-field results have yielded minimal wins, leaving them firmly at the bottom of the standings; however, that hasn’t stopped the craze.
In a recent article from Jon Greenberg of The Athletic, Stephanie Ganal, co-owner of Grandstand, commented on the hype surrounding Pope Leo XIV merchandise.
“That Saturday, we opened, and there were people lined up at 9:15, and we don’t open until 10. They were lining up, waiting for jerseys.”
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“I’m telling you, I think Pope Leo is probably overselling ballplayers in the last two years,” Stephanie added.
For fans looking for a Chicago White Sox Pope Leo XIV jersey, they are available to purchase through Grandstand’s website here.
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