Big crowds expected for Santo visitation today

Big crowds expected for Santo visitation today
Crowds of Chicago Cubs fans are expected to flock downtown Thursday to pay their last respects to Santo, who died last week.s WBEZ/file
Big crowds expected for Santo visitation today
Crowds of Chicago Cubs fans are expected to flock downtown Thursday to pay their last respects to Santo, who died last week.s WBEZ/file

Big crowds expected for Santo visitation today

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Crowds of Chicago Cubs fans are expected to flock downtown Thursday to pay their last respects to legendary third baseman and broadcaster Ron Santo, who died last week.

The Cubs say they’re expecting big crowds for the visitation, which is scheduled to last from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Holy Name Cathedral. Fans wishing to attend should be in line by 11 p.m., as the church closes at midnight, the Cubs said in a statement.

Santo died last week from complications from bladder cancer.

Santo was a nine-time all-star in his 15-year career. The third baseman was widely regarded as one of the best players never to gain induction into the Hall of Fame. He ended his career with 342 home runs, more than 1,300 RBIs and a .277 batting average.

As an announcer for the Cubs on WGN radio later in his career, Santo’s passion for the team bled through, even while announcing games from the broadcast booth.

Santo’s funeral is scheduled for 10 a.m. Friday at Holy Name Cathedral, with eulogies from Cubs chairman Tom Ricketts and Major League Baseball Commissioner Allan “Bud” Selig.

Afterward Santo’s funeral procession will travel to Wrigley Field, where it’ll take one final lap around the Friendly Confines.