Ron Santo

The Heart and Soul of the Chicago Cubs

Ron Santo was more than a Hall of Fame third baseman—he was the embodiment of the Chicago Cubs during the 1960s and early 1970s. Known for his fiery passion, clutch hitting, and unparalleled defense, Santo remains one of the greatest third basemen in baseball history. Across a career that spanned 15 seasons (1960–1974), Santo earned his place among the game’s immortals, becoming a cornerstone of the Cubs’ golden era and an inspiration both on and off the field.

Beyond his on-field accolades, Santo’s courageous battle with Type 1 diabetes, which he kept hidden for much of his playing career, adds another layer to his legendary status. His resilience in the face of adversity makes his Hall of Fame legacy even more compelling.

The Numbers That Define Ron Santo’s Greatness

Ron Santo’s career statistics showcase his offensive consistency and defensive excellence:

Batting Average: .277
Home Runs: 342
RBIs: 1,331
Hits: 2,254
On-Base Percentage: .362
Gold Gloves: 5 (1964–1968)

Career Accolades:

9-Time All-Star (1963–1966, 1968–1969, 1971–1973)
5-Time Gold Glove Winner (1964–1968)
1967 NL Walks Leader (96)
1964 NL Doubles Leader (33)
Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame (2012, Veterans Committee)

The Defensive Dynamo and Clutch Hitter

Consistency at Third Base:
Santo’s defensive prowess redefined the third base position. He led National League third basemen in assists seven times and was regarded as a defensive cornerstone for the Cubs. His five consecutive Gold Gloves from 1964 to 1968 solidified his reputation as one of the best to ever play the position.

Offensive Powerhouse:
At the plate, Santo was a disciplined and powerful hitter. From 1963 to 1970, he drove in 90 or more runs every season, with five seasons of 100+ RBIs. He consistently ranked among league leaders in walks, on-base percentage, and total bases, making him an invaluable offensive force.

Defining Moments That Shaped Ron Santo’s Career

The Click of the Heels (1969):
After each Cubs home win, Santo celebrated by clicking his heels as he jogged off the field, a gesture that endeared him to Cubs fans and became a signature moment of his career.
The 1967 Season:
Santo had one of his finest years, hitting .300 with 31 home runs, 107 RBIs, and a league-leading 96 walks, showcasing his all-around dominance.
Diabetes Advocate:
Though Santo played his entire career with Type 1 diabetes, he never let it define or limit him. His later advocacy for diabetes awareness made him a hero off the field, raising millions for research through his work with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).

The Most Iconic Ron Santo Baseball Cards

1961 Topps #35 Ron Santo Rookie Card:
This card captures Santo at the beginning of his legendary career. A must-have for vintage collectors, it’s the key rookie card of one of the game’s all-time greats.
1967 Topps #420 Ron Santo:
Showcasing Santo in his prime, this card is a centerpiece of the 1967 set, highlighting his confident pose and connection to the Cubs’ golden era.

The Legacy of Ron Santo

Ron Santo wasn’t just a great player; he was the heart of the Chicago Cubs and a role model for perseverance and passion. A true leader on and off the field, Santo remains beloved by Cubs fans, not only for his contributions as a player but also for his advocacy and loyalty to the franchise as a broadcaster.

Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2012, Santo’s legacy is etched in baseball history. His number 10 was retired by the Cubs, ensuring his memory will forever be tied to one of the most iconic franchises in baseball.

As Santo himself said:
“Every day, I gave it everything I had—because that’s what baseball deserves.”

Ron Santo: A Hall of Fame third baseman, an inspiring advocate, and a top Chicago Cubs legend.