A Hero. A Man. A Legend. We lost such a man this weekend. Ron Santo, legendary Chicago Cub finally succumbed to the disease he’d been fighting since he was boy. At age 70 Ronny had spent his entire career in professional baseball, but his life and legend were much bigger than that.
During his 15 year career he was a nine-time All Star and perennial Chicago favorite. If there was ever a Camelot age for Chicago Cubs baseball, it was during Ronnie’s playing days – including the mythic 1969 season.
After leaving the field, Ron went on to coach, and then to provide 21 years of color commentary, calling every Cub game – home or away. When Type 1 diabetes took both his legs, Santo would hobble in on crutches or roll in with a chair. Nothing was going to keep him from enjoying and sharing his life’s passion. No one held or communicated the spirit of Chicago Cubs baseball better than Ron Santo.
Jack Brickhouse, Harry Carey, and Ron Santo. Three legendary broadcasters. Each was ‘the voice of Cubs’ sometime during the past fifty-plus years. Jack has a statue at the Chicago River. Harry has his signature restaurant and numerous area icons. Ronnie has his immortal playing legend within the walls of Wrigley Field – and in the hearts of millions of Cub fans around the world.
Thanks Ronnie. Rest in peace. You will be missed.
In an odd footnote, Ron Santo is probably the most gifted player to ever NOT be inducted at Cooperstown. Now that he’s gone there will no doubt be an outpouring of emotion and nostalgia – but where were those emotions when the man was still here to revel in them? This is more a reflection on the jaded institution than on Ronnie’s career.
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A few weeks ago I blogged about this being the 100 year anniversary of the Cubs last World Series win. Well today, just moments ago, they took the first big step in that direction. No matter what else happens this year the Chicago Cubs are the Central division National League champions. For those keeping track, they were also the Central division National League champs last year, however this year is different.