Jason Perash, an attorney and baseball fan, had a memorable experience during a papal audience when he met Pope Leo XIV, a fellow White Sox enthusiast. Perash presented a baseball for the pope to sign, which he did, adding a personal touch to their exchange. The encounter attracted media attention, showcasing the blending of religion and sport. Perash expressed his excitement about the pope's election and the unique connection to baseball, highlighting a shared interest that makes the pontiff relatable to fans.
Pope Leo XIV, who is reportedly a lifelong Sox fan, complied, inscribing the ball in blue ink with 'Leone PP XIV'-his official papal autograph in Latin-right on the sweet spot.
Perash has been collecting signed baseballs since he was 10, he said, and his collection includes balls signed by presidents, astronauts, Beatles and even a few other popes-though Leo is the first he's gotten to sign in person.
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