Chris R. Vaccaro – World Baseball Network | Oct 1st, 2025 4:59pm EDT
The baseball gifts and visitors continue for Pope Leo. Former Kansas City Royals first baseman Mike Sweeney and his wife, Shara, had the extraordinary honor of presenting Pope Leo XIV with a customized jersey and baseball bat inside Vatican City.
The gift carried deep symbolism: the number on the back represented Pope Leo XIV’s place as the 267th successor of St. Peter, underscoring his role as the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church.
Sweeney, a five-time MLB All-Star who spent 16 seasons in the majors, has long been outspoken about his Catholic faith. His meeting with Pope Leo XIV highlighted the intersection of sports, faith, and global unity.
The event drew international attention not only because of Sweeney’s celebrated baseball career, but also for the unique connection it built between America’s pastime and the universal church. These moments are becoming more frequent as athletes from around the world are spending time with His Holiness.
Pope Leo, who was elevated to the papacy in 2025, graciously accepted the gift, thanking the Sweeneys for their gesture. Vatican officials noted that the jersey will become part of the papal collection of symbolic gifts presented by world leaders, athletes, and dignitaries.
Photo courtesy Vatican Media
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