The Chicago White Sox defeated the Houston Astros 6-2 in Game 1 of the American League Wild Card Series on Tuesday, taking a 1-0 series lead. The victory marked a strong playoff debut for the White Sox, who advanced to October baseball with an 84-78 record.
Pope Leo XIV sent a letter to White Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf on the same day, arriving at Guaranteed Rate Field ahead of the game. The pontiff, a lifelong White Sox fan since his childhood in Chicago, expressed his support and well-wishes in the Sept. 9 correspondence. In the letter, Leo thanked Reinsdorf for a previous note sent after the team honored him during an Aug. 11 game against the Cincinnati Reds.
White Sox Dominate Astros in Playoff Opener
The White Sox offense capitalized on a struggling Houston bullpen, with Colson Montgomery delivering a solo home run and Nelson Velazquez adding a two-run shot in the second inning. Chase Meidroth and Sam Antonacci also contributed key hits, including Antonacci’s RBI single that extended Chicago’s lead to 3-0. Grant Taylor closed the game, striking out five over 2.1 innings to secure the win.
Houston’s pitching struggled early, with A.J. Blubaugh making the start in a bullpen-heavy approach. The Astros, who entered the postseason as the worst team by win-loss record to ever qualify, were held to just two runs despite a late rally.
Pope Leo XIV Sends Playoff Wishes to White Sox
The White Sox received the letter from Pope Leo XIV, who addressed it to Reinsdorf and expressed hope for the team’s continued success. The pontiff, born Robert Prevost, has been a known White Sox fan since attending the 2005 World Series opener, where Chicago defeated Houston 5-3.
In the letter, Leo wrote: “It is my hope that the White Sox will continue to foster bonds of friendship and solidarity among people, and thus bear hopeful witness to the possibility of living and working together in peace.” He concluded with a blessing for Reinsdorf and his family.
The White Sox, who finished the regular season with an 84-78 record, now face a best-of-three series against Houston. Game 2 is scheduled for Wednesday at Minute Maid Park.