Yesterday, we started our countdown of the top ten Cubs news stories of 2011. Click here for the stories that ranked six through ten. And now for the top five!
5. Honoring Ronnie
Throughout the calender year the Cubs organization did a great job honoring Cubs legend Ron Santo, who passed away in December of 2010. It started at the Cubs Convention in January and continued in Spring Training and on Opening Day, when his family threw out the first pitch and sang the Seventh Inning Stretch. On August 10, a statue of Santo was unveiled outside Wrigley Field before the Cubs game against the Nationals. Pat Hughes did a great job all seasons long telling stories about Ronnie on Cubs radio broadcasts in addition to putting together a book and a CD on his longtime partner.
4. Goodbye Hendry
Jim Hendry tenure as the Cubs general manager, which started in the middle of the 2002 season, concluded on August 19 when he was relieved of his duties by Cubs chairman Tom Ricketts. Ricketts notified Hendry that his days were numbered on July 22, but Jim wanted to stay on to finish signing draft picks and making trades before the deadline. Although some of his moves were often criticized, such as Alfonso Soriano's contract and the Milton Bradley trade, Hendry will be fondly remembered on the North Side for leading the team to the playoffs three times and for his friendliness and loyalty.
3. Z Blows Up
Cubs pitcher Carlos Zambrano continued to make headlines for the wrong reasons when his emotions once again got the best of him on August 12. Z had yielded five home runs to the Atlanta Braves and in his frustration attempted to throw at Chipper Jones. Zambrano was ejected from the game, cleaned out his locker and claimed that he was retiring. He spent a stint on the disqualified list and did not pitch the remainder of the season, leaving his future with the Cubs in question.
2. Cubs Net Theo
The Cubs landed one of the brightest minds in baseball on Oct. 21 when Theo Epstein took over as their President of Baseball Operations. He had already agreed to a five year contract with the squad on Oct. 12. Epstein has already begun to put his stamp on the team, trading Tyler Colvin, DJ LeMahieu and Sean Marshall in order to build his own core of young players. The addition of Epstein along with general manager Jed Hoyer and VP of scouting and player development Jason McLeod gives fans hope for brighter days ahead.
1. Santo Elected to HOF
Without a doubt, the biggest story of the year is Ron Santo finally getting the call from Cooperstown. Santo will be inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in July, a long overdue honor. Friends, fans and family members only wish that Ronnie was here to find out the news. He was very vocal about his wish to be enshrined in the Hall during his lifetime. None-the-less, the ceremony will be a great way to continue to honor and remember Santo.
That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted on Everything Cubs as always!
Showing posts with label Ron Santo. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Ron Santo. Show all posts
Friday, December 30, 2011
Monday, December 5, 2011
Breaking News: Ron Santo Elected to Hall of Fame
Ron Santo has been elected into the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
That is one of two sentences that I have been looking forward to writing since I started this blog. Santo received 15 of 16 votes and will be inducted on July 22. He need just 12 votes, 75%, to receive the call.
It will be a great honor for Ronnie's family, however it is a shame that he is not here for it. Santo passed away just over a year ago. Ron Santo belongs in Cooperstown... I'm happy that the voters have finally realized their mistake. Much more coverage on Santo's election later!
Congratulations Ron Santo!!!!
That is one of two sentences that I have been looking forward to writing since I started this blog. Santo received 15 of 16 votes and will be inducted on July 22. He need just 12 votes, 75%, to receive the call.
It will be a great honor for Ronnie's family, however it is a shame that he is not here for it. Santo passed away just over a year ago. Ron Santo belongs in Cooperstown... I'm happy that the voters have finally realized their mistake. Much more coverage on Santo's election later!
Congratulations Ron Santo!!!!
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Previewing the Ron Santo Hall of Fame Vote
It's a big week for the Chicago Cubs with the Winter Meetings starting tomorrow in Dallas. We'll have plenty of rumors and new throughout the week, but as far as I'm concerned tomorrow is about one thing and one thing only- the Hall of Fame announcement regarding the late Ron Santo.
Ronnie, who passed away a year ago yesterday, was one of my all time favorite Cubs. There's no doubt he should have been inducted into the Hall of Fame during his lifetime. If he makes it tomorrow, it will be bittersweet for the family, which will wish he was there to witness it. However, it would still be great to be able to honor and remember Cubs legend Ron Santo in Cooperstown next July.
The Golden Era Committee met yesterday and again today to decide the HOF fate of Santo and several other candidates. Billy Williams is on the committee and is his case for his former teammate. The result will be announced tomorrow morning at 10am Central Time. We'll have it posted here on Everything Cubs Blog shortly there after.
The committee is made up of just 16 members. Each of them can vote for just five players or executives, but a 75% vote is needed for election. Click here to check out Phil Rogers' Chicago Tribune article making a case for Santo.
Tom Ricketts is also supporting Santo. Click here for Bruce Levine's blog post on the vote. Carrie Muskat also looked ahead to the announcement on her blog.
Ron Santo belongs in the Hall of Fame.
Ronnie, who passed away a year ago yesterday, was one of my all time favorite Cubs. There's no doubt he should have been inducted into the Hall of Fame during his lifetime. If he makes it tomorrow, it will be bittersweet for the family, which will wish he was there to witness it. However, it would still be great to be able to honor and remember Cubs legend Ron Santo in Cooperstown next July.
The Golden Era Committee met yesterday and again today to decide the HOF fate of Santo and several other candidates. Billy Williams is on the committee and is his case for his former teammate. The result will be announced tomorrow morning at 10am Central Time. We'll have it posted here on Everything Cubs Blog shortly there after.
The committee is made up of just 16 members. Each of them can vote for just five players or executives, but a 75% vote is needed for election. Click here to check out Phil Rogers' Chicago Tribune article making a case for Santo.
Tom Ricketts is also supporting Santo. Click here for Bruce Levine's blog post on the vote. Carrie Muskat also looked ahead to the announcement on her blog.
Ron Santo belongs in the Hall of Fame.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
2011 Winter Meetings Preview
The Cubs made their first move of the offseason this week, with more possibly on the horizon. Here's the latest.
Cubs Ink David DeJesus
On Wednesday the Cubs announced the signing of outfielder David DeJesus to a two year, $10 million contract that includes a club option for 2014. DeJesus can play all three outfield positions. He spent the first ten years of his career in Kansas City before playing for the Oakland A's last season. DeJesus hit just .240 in 2011 after hitting .318 in 2010.
Outfield Update
This move does not bode well for Tyler Colvin, who will have to earn his playing time since DeJesus could be the opening day starter in right field. Brett Jackson will be in the mix in Spring Training as well and Marlon Byrd could be shipped out before the start of the season. The Cubs are also searching for a buyer for overpaid leftfielder Alfonso Soriano.
Chris Bosio and Jamie Quirk Added to Coaching Staff
The Cubs have announced the Jamie Quirk will join Dale Sveum's coaching staff as the bench coach, while Chris Bosio will serve as the pitching coach. Mark Riggins will not return to the staff, while Pat Listach could be back as a base coach. Quirk was the Astros bullpen coach the last two seasons. Bosio, who coached with the Brewers in 2011, and Sveum have a long history together. An official announcement of the full coaching staff is expected this week.
A Busy Week Ahead?
Cubs general manager Jed Hoyer has said in several interviews that he expects the team to be very active at the Winter Meetings next week. There are rumors circulating that the Cubs are planning a full roster overhaul. Carlos Zambrano, Alfonso Soriano, Marlon Byrd and Matt Garza could be among the players that the Cubs are shopping, although Epstein has said he would like to build his pitching staff around a player like Garza. The team has been connected to Prince Fielder, Albert Pujols and Mark Buehrle.
Ron Santo
Today marks the one year anniversary of Ron Santo's death. He will have another shot at the Hall of Fame on Monday as this year's veteran committee vote is release. It would be a shame to see Ronnie go in without him there to see it, but it would be a great honor none-the-less. We'll have more on Santo's potential Hall of Fame induction Sunday and Monday.
That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted on everything Cubs as always.
Cubs Ink David DeJesus
On Wednesday the Cubs announced the signing of outfielder David DeJesus to a two year, $10 million contract that includes a club option for 2014. DeJesus can play all three outfield positions. He spent the first ten years of his career in Kansas City before playing for the Oakland A's last season. DeJesus hit just .240 in 2011 after hitting .318 in 2010.
Outfield Update
This move does not bode well for Tyler Colvin, who will have to earn his playing time since DeJesus could be the opening day starter in right field. Brett Jackson will be in the mix in Spring Training as well and Marlon Byrd could be shipped out before the start of the season. The Cubs are also searching for a buyer for overpaid leftfielder Alfonso Soriano.
Chris Bosio and Jamie Quirk Added to Coaching Staff
The Cubs have announced the Jamie Quirk will join Dale Sveum's coaching staff as the bench coach, while Chris Bosio will serve as the pitching coach. Mark Riggins will not return to the staff, while Pat Listach could be back as a base coach. Quirk was the Astros bullpen coach the last two seasons. Bosio, who coached with the Brewers in 2011, and Sveum have a long history together. An official announcement of the full coaching staff is expected this week.
A Busy Week Ahead?
Cubs general manager Jed Hoyer has said in several interviews that he expects the team to be very active at the Winter Meetings next week. There are rumors circulating that the Cubs are planning a full roster overhaul. Carlos Zambrano, Alfonso Soriano, Marlon Byrd and Matt Garza could be among the players that the Cubs are shopping, although Epstein has said he would like to build his pitching staff around a player like Garza. The team has been connected to Prince Fielder, Albert Pujols and Mark Buehrle.
Ron Santo
Today marks the one year anniversary of Ron Santo's death. He will have another shot at the Hall of Fame on Monday as this year's veteran committee vote is release. It would be a shame to see Ronnie go in without him there to see it, but it would be a great honor none-the-less. We'll have more on Santo's potential Hall of Fame induction Sunday and Monday.
That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted on everything Cubs as always.
Thursday, November 24, 2011
What are Cubs fans Thankful for?
Happy Thanksgiving Cubs fans! I hope everyone has a great day eating, giving thanks, watching football and being with their families.
Every year here on Everything Cubs Blog, we take a look at a list of things that Cubs fans have to be thankful for. Although the Boys in Blue are coming off back-to-back losing seasons, there are still a lot of factors that make it a good time to be a Cubs fan.
Every year here on Everything Cubs Blog, we take a look at a list of things that Cubs fans have to be thankful for. Although the Boys in Blue are coming off back-to-back losing seasons, there are still a lot of factors that make it a good time to be a Cubs fan.
- Tom Ricketts was able to bring Theo Epstein to Chicago.
- The 2012 Cubs will feature a new president, general manager and manager.
- Dale Sveum does not sound like he will put up with guys like Starlin Castro, Alfonso Soriano and Carlos Zambrano slacking. Sveum wants to crack down on Castro's defense.
- Only two months until the Cubs Convention.
- Just three months until Spring Training.
- A week from Monday is the Ron Santo Hall of Fame announcement... maybe #10 will finally make it in.
- You cannot get your Cubs fix all winter long as CSN Chicago has added a Hot Stove show covering the Cubs and White Sox on Tuesday nights.
- Baseball's Winter Meetings are just over a week away and the Cubs are poised to make some moves.
- It sounds as if Kerry Wood will return next season.
- All baseball fans can be thankful that a new CBA has been reached and that the NBA is the only sport facing a lockout.
- The Cubs have some solid prospects at the minor league level, led by Brett Jackson.
- The Cubs have one of the best play-by-play men in all of baseball, Pat Hughes.
- Matt Garza, Starlin Castro and Darwin Barney.
Once again, have a happy Thanksgiving Cubs fans!!!
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Ron Santo Baseball Voices CD Set for Release
Baseball Voices, a series of audio tributes to legendary broadcasters put together by Cubs play-by-play man Pat Hughes, has released its latest CD. Hughes longtime partner and Cubs legend Ron Santo, who passed away last December, is honored in a CD.
The tribute to Ron is set next Tuesday, Nov. 22. It is available for pre-order on the Baseball Voices website. The CD all about #10 is the tenth installment in the Baseball Voices series.
The cost per CD is $14.95. Here is a list of the tracks included-
1. Open
2. Intro
3. Cubs Legend
4. Itching
5. Hairpiece
6. Sno(u)t
7. Cough Button
8. Fashion-Food Cop
9. Marketing Guru
10. Cage Dancing
11. Mixed Up Mix Up
12. 1998
13. Let Them Eat Cake
14. Yogart Overboard
15. Al Fonseca
16. Damn Hankies
17. Munsters/Addams Family?
18. Booth Bugs
19. That is My Hall of Fame
20. Credits
I have already ordered my copy and cannot way to listen to it!
That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted!
The tribute to Ron is set next Tuesday, Nov. 22. It is available for pre-order on the Baseball Voices website. The CD all about #10 is the tenth installment in the Baseball Voices series.
The cost per CD is $14.95. Here is a list of the tracks included-
1. Open
2. Intro
3. Cubs Legend
4. Itching
5. Hairpiece
6. Sno(u)t
7. Cough Button
8. Fashion-Food Cop
9. Marketing Guru
10. Cage Dancing
11. Mixed Up Mix Up
12. 1998
13. Let Them Eat Cake
14. Yogart Overboard
15. Al Fonseca
16. Damn Hankies
17. Munsters/Addams Family?
18. Booth Bugs
19. That is My Hall of Fame
20. Credits
I have already ordered my copy and cannot way to listen to it!
That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted!
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Remembering Ronnie Roundup: 10-13-11
While we are waiting for the official announcement, let's take a break from all the Theo Epstein talk for our monthly Remembering Ronnie Roundup, the section of the blog where we honor Cubs legend Ron Santo.
Ronnie's Walk
The Ron Santo Walk to Cure Diabetes took place on October 2. It was the 33rd annual event but the third since Santo's death last December. Click here for a photo gallery of the walk from WGN Radio. The 2011 walk was held in six different locations throughout the Chicagoland area. Click here for the official thank you message from the JDRF website.
Baseball Voices CD
The next big date on the Ron Santo calender is coming next month with the release of Pat Hughes' Baseball Voices CD featuring Ronnie. Pat and Ron teamed up in the WGN Radio booth for 15 great years. The CD is sure to produce a lot of laughs. It is expected to be released by Thanksgiving.
Ford C. Frick Finalists Announced
Both Pat Hughes and Ron Santo were up for the fans vote for Ford C. Frick Award finalists, but neither cracked the ballot that the 20 member committee will vote on. The ten finalists are Skip Caray, Rene Cardenas, Tom Cheek, Ken Coleman, Jacques Doucet, Bill King, Tim McCarver, Graham McNamee, Eric Nadel and Mike Shannon. The winner will be announced on December 6.
Baseball HOF Vote
The aforementioned Veterans' Committee voting results will be announced at the Winter Meetings in December as well. Santo needs 12 of the 16 votes to be elected. According to an article by Rob Neyer this summer, "It seems likely that at least one candidate will get the necessary 12 votes. It's probably Ron Santo's turn, finally. You know, just in time for the first anniversary of his death. When he should have been elected 30 years ago."
That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted!
Ronnie's Walk
The Ron Santo Walk to Cure Diabetes took place on October 2. It was the 33rd annual event but the third since Santo's death last December. Click here for a photo gallery of the walk from WGN Radio. The 2011 walk was held in six different locations throughout the Chicagoland area. Click here for the official thank you message from the JDRF website.
Baseball Voices CD
The next big date on the Ron Santo calender is coming next month with the release of Pat Hughes' Baseball Voices CD featuring Ronnie. Pat and Ron teamed up in the WGN Radio booth for 15 great years. The CD is sure to produce a lot of laughs. It is expected to be released by Thanksgiving.
Ford C. Frick Finalists Announced
Both Pat Hughes and Ron Santo were up for the fans vote for Ford C. Frick Award finalists, but neither cracked the ballot that the 20 member committee will vote on. The ten finalists are Skip Caray, Rene Cardenas, Tom Cheek, Ken Coleman, Jacques Doucet, Bill King, Tim McCarver, Graham McNamee, Eric Nadel and Mike Shannon. The winner will be announced on December 6.
Baseball HOF Vote
The aforementioned Veterans' Committee voting results will be announced at the Winter Meetings in December as well. Santo needs 12 of the 16 votes to be elected. According to an article by Rob Neyer this summer, "It seems likely that at least one candidate will get the necessary 12 votes. It's probably Ron Santo's turn, finally. You know, just in time for the first anniversary of his death. When he should have been elected 30 years ago."
That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted!
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Ron Santo Statue Dedication Recap
Last night was a special night for the Cubs organization and the family of Ron Santo. Ronnie's statue was unveiled at the corner of Addison and Sheffield in an emotional ceremony before the Cubs game against the Nationals. August 10, 2011 was deemed Ron Santo Day at Wrigley Field.
Len Kasper was the emcee for the ceremony. Tom Ricketts, Ernie Banks, Fergie Jenkins and Billy Williams all spoke before the unveiling. Pat Hughes shared his thoughts and then was at the microphone while the actual unveiling took place. Randy Hundley and Glenn Beckert assisted in the statue unveiling. Ron's wife Vicki and son Jeff spoke after the statue was revealed. Vicki said that Ron got a call during the summer of 2010 from Crane Kenney informing him that his Billy Williams' statue would be done in September and his the following season. Ronnie knew about the statue and he was so excited about it.
The statue itself was really cool. Cubs colors of blue and red were mixed in with the bronze. It was of Ron making a throw from third base. It is the first of the four statues at Wrigley to be of player playing defense. The statue looks just like #10. Most of the Cubs players paid their respects by showing up to the unveiling even though it was just before a game.
Here are some links for more Santo coverage!
Len Kasper was the emcee for the ceremony. Tom Ricketts, Ernie Banks, Fergie Jenkins and Billy Williams all spoke before the unveiling. Pat Hughes shared his thoughts and then was at the microphone while the actual unveiling took place. Randy Hundley and Glenn Beckert assisted in the statue unveiling. Ron's wife Vicki and son Jeff spoke after the statue was revealed. Vicki said that Ron got a call during the summer of 2010 from Crane Kenney informing him that his Billy Williams' statue would be done in September and his the following season. Ronnie knew about the statue and he was so excited about it.
The statue itself was really cool. Cubs colors of blue and red were mixed in with the bronze. It was of Ron making a throw from third base. It is the first of the four statues at Wrigley to be of player playing defense. The statue looks just like #10. Most of the Cubs players paid their respects by showing up to the unveiling even though it was just before a game.
Here are some links for more Santo coverage!
- Bruce Miles of the Daily Herald's blog
- Dave van Dyck of the Chicago Tribune- w/ video of Santo family singing stretch
- Carrie Muskat's blog- Cubs players and manager remember Santo's passion
- Gordon Wittenmyer of the Chicago Sun Times- Statue a touching tribute
- WGN Radio audio coverage of statue dedication
- Cubs Corner Ron Santo special- full audio
- Video & Article from WGN-TV
I great job by the Cubs organization and the guys that constructed the statue. I only wish that Ronnie would have been there to see it.
Which Cubs legend would you like to see honored with a statue outside Wrigley next? Vote on the poll on our right sidebar.
Well, that does it for our week full of Ron Santo coverage! I'll take a few days off from posting and then return with more Cub related posts. If news breaks, I'll keep you posted as always!
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Ron Santo Day: August 10, 2011
We'll I've been posting about this day since January. With the poor play seen by the team on the field this season, one of my main goals here on Everything Cubs Blog has been to honor Cubs legend Ron Santo.
I think it is evident based on all of my posts, but Ronnie meant so much to me and so many other people. He was such a unique, caring, funny and tough person. To go through everything he went through with diabetes, be a nine time All-Star thirdbaseman, be an entertaining broadcaster, do charitable work for JDRF and be so kind, it takes an incredible man.
Visit the posts labeled Ron Santo section on my blog to read all my memories of Ronnie. I miss him every time I turn on the radio during the Cubs game.
Today, the Ron Santo statue unveiling will take place at 5:30pm Central Time at the corner of Addison and Sheffield. Billy Williams, Fergie Jenkins, Ernie Banks, Randy Hundly, Glen Beckert, Milt Pappas, Pat Hughes, Ron's family, the Ricketts family and more will be involved in the dedication. It should be interesting to see what the statue looks like. Hughes has narrowed it down to three possibilities: a) Ron fielding b) Ron hitting c) Ron's hairpiece catching on fire!
The statue unveiling will be broadcast live in its entirety on CLTV with clips shown on the WGN-TV News. Live coverage will also air on WGN Radio at 5:30.
Don't forget that Cubs Corner, a Ron Santo special, will air on WGN Radio today at noon. Hosts Dave Eanet, Brian Noonan and Andrea Darlas will be joined by Ernie Banks, Billy Williams, Fergie Jenkins and Pat Hughes. From 1-3 on WGN-720, Nick Digillio will have Santo memories and broadcasting highlights!
Ron Santo Junior joined Greg Jarrett and Dave Eanet this morning on WGN Radio, while Len Kasper stopped by to talk about Ronnie yesterday. Click here for the page that includes both uncut podcasts.
Everything Cubs blog will forever honor Ronnie with his picture on the right sidebar. Our posts about Ron will not end today. Tomorrow I'll recap all the events and then we will return with Remembering Ronnie Roundups once a month for the rest of 2011.
I think it is evident based on all of my posts, but Ronnie meant so much to me and so many other people. He was such a unique, caring, funny and tough person. To go through everything he went through with diabetes, be a nine time All-Star thirdbaseman, be an entertaining broadcaster, do charitable work for JDRF and be so kind, it takes an incredible man.
Visit the posts labeled Ron Santo section on my blog to read all my memories of Ronnie. I miss him every time I turn on the radio during the Cubs game.
Today, the Ron Santo statue unveiling will take place at 5:30pm Central Time at the corner of Addison and Sheffield. Billy Williams, Fergie Jenkins, Ernie Banks, Randy Hundly, Glen Beckert, Milt Pappas, Pat Hughes, Ron's family, the Ricketts family and more will be involved in the dedication. It should be interesting to see what the statue looks like. Hughes has narrowed it down to three possibilities: a) Ron fielding b) Ron hitting c) Ron's hairpiece catching on fire!
The statue unveiling will be broadcast live in its entirety on CLTV with clips shown on the WGN-TV News. Live coverage will also air on WGN Radio at 5:30.
Don't forget that Cubs Corner, a Ron Santo special, will air on WGN Radio today at noon. Hosts Dave Eanet, Brian Noonan and Andrea Darlas will be joined by Ernie Banks, Billy Williams, Fergie Jenkins and Pat Hughes. From 1-3 on WGN-720, Nick Digillio will have Santo memories and broadcasting highlights!
Ron Santo Junior joined Greg Jarrett and Dave Eanet this morning on WGN Radio, while Len Kasper stopped by to talk about Ronnie yesterday. Click here for the page that includes both uncut podcasts.
Everything Cubs blog will forever honor Ronnie with his picture on the right sidebar. Our posts about Ron will not end today. Tomorrow I'll recap all the events and then we will return with Remembering Ronnie Roundups once a month for the rest of 2011.
Monday, August 8, 2011
Ron Santo Statue Dedication Time Set
According to a report from Carrie Muskat, the statue unveiling will indeed take place at 5:30 on Wednesday. I'd expect some type of coverage during the Garry Meier Show on WGN Radio, and I'm sure WGN-TV News will have it as well.
Schedule to appear during the statue dedication:
According to Barry Rozner, Santo's family will spread his ashes across Wrigley Field on Thursday.
Scroll down on the main page of our blog for much more Santo coverage!
Schedule to appear during the statue dedication:
- Members of the Santo family
- The Ricketts family
- Ernie Banks
- Billy Williams
- Fergie Jenkins
- Pat Hughes
- Glenn Beckert
- Randy Hundley
- Milt Pappas
According to Barry Rozner, Santo's family will spread his ashes across Wrigley Field on Thursday.
Scroll down on the main page of our blog for much more Santo coverage!
Sunday, August 7, 2011
More Ron Santo Day Notes
We're learning more and more about Ron Santo Day, which is officially this week! I'm looking so forward to Wednesday!!! I will update this post if any additional information becomes available today. Update 2pm CT: According to several reports, the ceremony starts at 5:25pm Central Time on Wednesday evening.
- The Santo family will be singing the 7th Inning Streach on Wednesday, according to Len and Bob's Blog. Pat Hughes is the guest conductor today.
- WGN-TV will be broadcasting the game against the Nationals. Ron Santo: In His Own Words will air starting at 6:30 leading up to the contest.
- I mentioned a few days ago that Hughes did a great interview with Vineline. You can read part of it on the Vineline Cubs Blog!
- Click here for yesterday's Ron Santo post or here for Thursday's Remembering Ronnie Roundup.
I will update throughout the day if anything comes up. I'll be posting several more small posts Monday and Tuesday leading up to Ron Santo Day, with a large post Wednesday morning and another one to recap the day sometime on Thursday.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Counting Down to Ron Santo Day
While the Cubs continue their best stretch of play this season, we continue our week long preview of Ron Santo Day, which is coming up on Wednesday at Wrigley. Ronnie would have loved this Cubs winning streak, by the way.
WGN Radio Sports Director Dave Eanet was on the Cubs broadcast today, sitting in for Pat Hughes. He had some addition information about next Wednesday. The statue will be unveiled at the corner of Addison and Sheffield. The ceremony will be carried live on WGN 720. The time has been in question and we are still waiting for an official confirmation, but Eanet said, "I believe it starts at 5:30, if I'm not mistaken."
WGN Radio will also have Cubs Corner to talk about Ronnie on Wednesday afternoon starting at noon. Ernie Banks has been added to the panel, which will also include Billy Williams, Fergie Jenkins and Pat Hughes.
I will update with any additional information on Wednesday's slate as we approach the day!
WGN Radio Sports Director Dave Eanet was on the Cubs broadcast today, sitting in for Pat Hughes. He had some addition information about next Wednesday. The statue will be unveiled at the corner of Addison and Sheffield. The ceremony will be carried live on WGN 720. The time has been in question and we are still waiting for an official confirmation, but Eanet said, "I believe it starts at 5:30, if I'm not mistaken."
WGN Radio will also have Cubs Corner to talk about Ronnie on Wednesday afternoon starting at noon. Ernie Banks has been added to the panel, which will also include Billy Williams, Fergie Jenkins and Pat Hughes.
I will update with any additional information on Wednesday's slate as we approach the day!
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Remembering Ronnie Roundup: 8-4-11
A big event is coming up at Wrigley Field next Wednesday with the unveiling and dedication of the statue in honor of Cubs legend Ron Santo, who passed away last December.
For full details, click here for last week's Remembering Ronnie Roundup. That post also talks about the Ron Santo golf outing, book, a WGN Radio special and more. The time for the ceremony has not yet officially been announced. One report said that it would take place fairly early (between 1:30 and 4:30), but I'm hearing 5:30, which seems to make more sense. I will update as soon as I hear a confirmed time.
According to WGN-TV, the Cubs will give $10 to JDRF for each bleacher and terrace reserve outfield ticket purchased online for August 10 when you type JDRF as the special coupon code. WGN-TV says that Fergie Jenkins, Billy Williams and Ernie Banks will all be a part of the pregame ceremonies that night.
I recommend getting your hands on the August issue of Vineline. There is a great interview with Pat Hughes about Ronnie. In the upcoming events and promotions section, next Wednesday was listed as Ron Santo Day. Here is what Vineline has about 8/10:
The Cubs are pulling out all the stops to honor legendary third baseman and broadcaster Ron Santo. Festivities will include the dedication of a new statue, Wrigley Field's fourth, that will be unveiled prior to the game.
The Ron Santo Baseball Voices CD, produced by Pat Hughes, is also on the horizon. According to the Baseball Voices Facebook page, the CD will be released before Thanksgiving!
Lifesource is putting on a Ron Santo Memorial Blood Drive. If you give blood on August 10, you will receive a free copy of the great book Ron Santo: A Perfect Ten. Click here for more information.
There will be much more information released about Ron Santo Day in the next week, and we'll have it all right here on Everything Cubs Blog. Please keep checking back!
For full details, click here for last week's Remembering Ronnie Roundup. That post also talks about the Ron Santo golf outing, book, a WGN Radio special and more. The time for the ceremony has not yet officially been announced. One report said that it would take place fairly early (between 1:30 and 4:30), but I'm hearing 5:30, which seems to make more sense. I will update as soon as I hear a confirmed time.
According to WGN-TV, the Cubs will give $10 to JDRF for each bleacher and terrace reserve outfield ticket purchased online for August 10 when you type JDRF as the special coupon code. WGN-TV says that Fergie Jenkins, Billy Williams and Ernie Banks will all be a part of the pregame ceremonies that night.
I recommend getting your hands on the August issue of Vineline. There is a great interview with Pat Hughes about Ronnie. In the upcoming events and promotions section, next Wednesday was listed as Ron Santo Day. Here is what Vineline has about 8/10:
The Cubs are pulling out all the stops to honor legendary third baseman and broadcaster Ron Santo. Festivities will include the dedication of a new statue, Wrigley Field's fourth, that will be unveiled prior to the game.
The Ron Santo Baseball Voices CD, produced by Pat Hughes, is also on the horizon. According to the Baseball Voices Facebook page, the CD will be released before Thanksgiving!
Lifesource is putting on a Ron Santo Memorial Blood Drive. If you give blood on August 10, you will receive a free copy of the great book Ron Santo: A Perfect Ten. Click here for more information.
There will be much more information released about Ron Santo Day in the next week, and we'll have it all right here on Everything Cubs Blog. Please keep checking back!
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Remembering Ronnie Roundup: 7-27-11
Here on Everything Cubs Blog we continue to honor the late Ron Santo for his great career with the Cubs as both a player and a broadcaster. Here are the latest news and notes regarding #10.
Ron Santo Golf Outing
The Ron Santo golf outing to benefit JDRF took place Kemper Lakes Golf Club in Kildeer, IL on Monday. Many members of the Cubs organization spent their off day golfing for Ronnie. Sean Marshall, Darwin Barney, Ryan Dempster and Kerry Wood were among the players who attended. Click here for video from last year's event, or click here for John Williams' interview with Pat Hughes and Vicki Santo on WGN Radio from Monday.
Ron Santo: A Perfect Ten
Remember, there is a great book out about Ron Santo! You can order your copy on ronsantobook.com. Click here for my book review from VFTB.
Countdown to August 10: 14 Days
Two weeks from today the Ron Santo statue will be unveiled at Wrigley Field. That night the Cubs will take on the Nationals at 7:05. Expect lots of Santo coverage the day of the statue unveiling. So far, we know that WGN Radio will honor Ronnie with a special edition of Cubs Corner from Noon to 1:00 Central Time. Tickets for the luncheon are $50 for adults and $25 for children and include a lunch at Wildfire Chicago, the restaurant hosting the event. Dave Eanet and Brian Noonan will chat with Santo's partner Pat Hughes and former teammates Fergie Jenkins and Ernie Banks during the live broadcast.
That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted as we draw closer to August 10!
Ron Santo Golf Outing
The Ron Santo golf outing to benefit JDRF took place Kemper Lakes Golf Club in Kildeer, IL on Monday. Many members of the Cubs organization spent their off day golfing for Ronnie. Sean Marshall, Darwin Barney, Ryan Dempster and Kerry Wood were among the players who attended. Click here for video from last year's event, or click here for John Williams' interview with Pat Hughes and Vicki Santo on WGN Radio from Monday.
Ron Santo: A Perfect Ten
Remember, there is a great book out about Ron Santo! You can order your copy on ronsantobook.com. Click here for my book review from VFTB.
Countdown to August 10: 14 Days
Two weeks from today the Ron Santo statue will be unveiled at Wrigley Field. That night the Cubs will take on the Nationals at 7:05. Expect lots of Santo coverage the day of the statue unveiling. So far, we know that WGN Radio will honor Ronnie with a special edition of Cubs Corner from Noon to 1:00 Central Time. Tickets for the luncheon are $50 for adults and $25 for children and include a lunch at Wildfire Chicago, the restaurant hosting the event. Dave Eanet and Brian Noonan will chat with Santo's partner Pat Hughes and former teammates Fergie Jenkins and Ernie Banks during the live broadcast.
That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted as we draw closer to August 10!
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Crosstown Showdown- Broadcaster Style
With the Crosstown Series Part II between the Cubs and White Sox set to start tomorrow, I beg the question: Which team has the better broadcasters?
For all three games this weekend the White Sox radio team will be on 670 The Score and the Cubs radio team on WGN-720, so if you are in your car you will have to pick between the two. On Saturday you'll be stuck with FOX-TV if you're at home, but on Friday the Sox TV guys will be on CSN and Cubs on WGN, and Sunday it will be the opposite on TV.
Now I know this is a Cubs blog, so most of us are going to the favor the North Siders when I ask this question. But let us really think about it.
TV Play-by-Play
Ken "Hawk" Harrelson is as big of a homer as they come. If you aren't a White Sox fan, chance are you cannot stand the guy. If you are a Sox supporter, you probably love yelling "You can put it on the board... YES!" along with Hawk. He is very entertaining, but I would rather have colorful color analyst than a colorful play-by-play guy. Len Kasper has grown on me since he took over in the Cubs booth in 2005. He does a good job of letting Bob do his job and building the excitement went necessary.
Point: Len Kasper
Radio Play-by-Play
Pat Hughes is one of the best in the business. He is very fair, has a great voice and has a way of making every game seem exciting. In addition, his sense of humor is unique and hilarious. I miss the magic that occurred in the booth for 15 years when Pat was teamed up with Ron Santo. I haven't heard much of Ed Farmer, but I do know that he's no Pat Hughes.
Point: Pat Hughes
TV Color Commentary
Steve Stone and Bob Brenly both have great baseball minds. They are both very insigthful. I believe that BB is easier to listen to and sounds more natural on the air. However, due to Stoney's popularity on the North Side while working with Harry Caray, I believe that most Chicago fans would take Steve over Bob. Just to be fair we'll give this one to the Sox.
Point: Steve Stone
Radio Color Commentary
Keith Moreland was faced with the difficult assignment of having to fill the shoes of Ron Santo this year. Keith is a great guy and provides some insight into the WGN booth, but it is simply not the same as having Ronnie on the air. His mispronunciations and southern accent are my only complaints. When Pat takes his fifth inning break, I wish Judd Sirott would do the play-by-play and Keith would continue doing color, but they have it the other way around. Darrin Jackson, who played for both the Cubs and White Sox, was very popular when he was on TV with Hawk but unfortunately was demoted to the radio booth. I've always liked DJ.
Point: Darrin Jackson
CSN Pre/Post
Everyone love when Dan Plesac did the pregame and postgame shows for Comcast Sports Net, but Holly has stepped in and done just as good of a job. I like having David Kaplan with Holly this year. I find Bill Melton a bit on the boring side for the White Sox pre and post.
Point: Todd Hollandswoth
All and all I think that all eight broadcasters that we have in Chicago are very good. The only one who I do not care for is Hawk, but if he was a Cubs guy that might be different. Thoughts?
For all three games this weekend the White Sox radio team will be on 670 The Score and the Cubs radio team on WGN-720, so if you are in your car you will have to pick between the two. On Saturday you'll be stuck with FOX-TV if you're at home, but on Friday the Sox TV guys will be on CSN and Cubs on WGN, and Sunday it will be the opposite on TV.
Now I know this is a Cubs blog, so most of us are going to the favor the North Siders when I ask this question. But let us really think about it.
TV Play-by-Play
Ken "Hawk" Harrelson is as big of a homer as they come. If you aren't a White Sox fan, chance are you cannot stand the guy. If you are a Sox supporter, you probably love yelling "You can put it on the board... YES!" along with Hawk. He is very entertaining, but I would rather have colorful color analyst than a colorful play-by-play guy. Len Kasper has grown on me since he took over in the Cubs booth in 2005. He does a good job of letting Bob do his job and building the excitement went necessary.
Point: Len Kasper
Radio Play-by-Play
Pat Hughes is one of the best in the business. He is very fair, has a great voice and has a way of making every game seem exciting. In addition, his sense of humor is unique and hilarious. I miss the magic that occurred in the booth for 15 years when Pat was teamed up with Ron Santo. I haven't heard much of Ed Farmer, but I do know that he's no Pat Hughes.
Point: Pat Hughes
TV Color Commentary
Steve Stone and Bob Brenly both have great baseball minds. They are both very insigthful. I believe that BB is easier to listen to and sounds more natural on the air. However, due to Stoney's popularity on the North Side while working with Harry Caray, I believe that most Chicago fans would take Steve over Bob. Just to be fair we'll give this one to the Sox.
Point: Steve Stone
Radio Color Commentary
Keith Moreland was faced with the difficult assignment of having to fill the shoes of Ron Santo this year. Keith is a great guy and provides some insight into the WGN booth, but it is simply not the same as having Ronnie on the air. His mispronunciations and southern accent are my only complaints. When Pat takes his fifth inning break, I wish Judd Sirott would do the play-by-play and Keith would continue doing color, but they have it the other way around. Darrin Jackson, who played for both the Cubs and White Sox, was very popular when he was on TV with Hawk but unfortunately was demoted to the radio booth. I've always liked DJ.
Point: Darrin Jackson
CSN Pre/Post
Everyone love when Dan Plesac did the pregame and postgame shows for Comcast Sports Net, but Holly has stepped in and done just as good of a job. I like having David Kaplan with Holly this year. I find Bill Melton a bit on the boring side for the White Sox pre and post.
Point: Todd Hollandswoth
All and all I think that all eight broadcasters that we have in Chicago are very good. The only one who I do not care for is Hawk, but if he was a Cubs guy that might be different. Thoughts?
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Possible Roster Moves
The Cubs currently have three players that are close to coming off the disables list. Kerry Wood is trying to recover from his blister issue. He has begun to toss on the side. Marlon Byrd is set to begin his rehab assignment with Triple-A Iowa tomorrow, but no time table is in place for his return. Darwin Barney is already rehabbing and could return to the big league team on Wednesday.
When these players return, the Cubs will be forced to make several roster decision to make room on the club. Let us take a look at their options to make room for each player.
To Make Room for Kerry Wood
Option A) Send Chris Carpenter back to Iowa
Option B) Trade/DFA John Grabow
Option C) Trade/Release/Demote Rodrigo Lopez
My Take) The best option would probably be getting rid of John Grabow, but the Cubs are unlikely to dump is salary. Most likely Carpenter will be headed back to the minors, but I'd rather see more of him than Lopez.
To Make Room for Marlon Byrd
Option A) Send Tony Campana back to the minors
Option B) Send Lou Montanez back to the minors
Option C) Trade Kosuke Fukudome
My Take) There are probably no takers for Kosuke, so it looks as if one of the kids is going to Iowa. I would send Montanez back down so that the Cubs can receive a longer look at the younger and faster Tony Campana. However, if Campana is not going to play with Byrd, Johnson, Soriano and Kosuke all on the roster, it would make more sense to send him to AAA for some ABs. Montanez is right handed so he makes for a better platoon partner with Kosuke.
To Make Room For Darwin Barney
Option A) Send DJ LeMahieu to Triple-A
Option B) Send both Campana and Montanez to the minors, keep LeMahieu as a backup infielder, use Baker and DeWitt in the outfield if need be.
Option C) Trade Baker or DeWitt
My Take) DJ most likely needs to go back down. I would hate to see the Cubs waste a young player on the bench when he probably needs more seasoning at the minor league level.
Feel free to jump in with your take in the comments. How the Cubs handle these decisions will really indicate the direction that the team is going in. The injuries have actually allowed the Cubs to take a look at some of the younger players, now it is time to find out which younger players have earned a spot in the roster full time.
Today is the 51st anniversary of Ron Santo's big league debut! Check out my book review of Ron Santo A Perfect Ten on View From the Bleachers by clicking here.
That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted on Everything Cubs as always.
When these players return, the Cubs will be forced to make several roster decision to make room on the club. Let us take a look at their options to make room for each player.
To Make Room for Kerry Wood
Option A) Send Chris Carpenter back to Iowa
Option B) Trade/DFA John Grabow
Option C) Trade/Release/Demote Rodrigo Lopez
My Take) The best option would probably be getting rid of John Grabow, but the Cubs are unlikely to dump is salary. Most likely Carpenter will be headed back to the minors, but I'd rather see more of him than Lopez.
To Make Room for Marlon Byrd
Option A) Send Tony Campana back to the minors
Option B) Send Lou Montanez back to the minors
Option C) Trade Kosuke Fukudome
My Take) There are probably no takers for Kosuke, so it looks as if one of the kids is going to Iowa. I would send Montanez back down so that the Cubs can receive a longer look at the younger and faster Tony Campana. However, if Campana is not going to play with Byrd, Johnson, Soriano and Kosuke all on the roster, it would make more sense to send him to AAA for some ABs. Montanez is right handed so he makes for a better platoon partner with Kosuke.
To Make Room For Darwin Barney
Option A) Send DJ LeMahieu to Triple-A
Option B) Send both Campana and Montanez to the minors, keep LeMahieu as a backup infielder, use Baker and DeWitt in the outfield if need be.
Option C) Trade Baker or DeWitt
My Take) DJ most likely needs to go back down. I would hate to see the Cubs waste a young player on the bench when he probably needs more seasoning at the minor league level.
Feel free to jump in with your take in the comments. How the Cubs handle these decisions will really indicate the direction that the team is going in. The injuries have actually allowed the Cubs to take a look at some of the younger players, now it is time to find out which younger players have earned a spot in the roster full time.
Today is the 51st anniversary of Ron Santo's big league debut! Check out my book review of Ron Santo A Perfect Ten on View From the Bleachers by clicking here.
That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted on Everything Cubs as always.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Remembering Ronnie Roundup: Reviewing the Ron Santo Book
This past week I have been reading the book Ron Santo: A Perfect Ten, which I finished today. I don't want to spoil the book but I definitely recommend it for any Cubs fans. Author Rich Wolfe teamed up with Ron's partner Pat Hughes to write the book, which was action a collection of stories from those that knew Santo best. Family members, fellow broadcasters and childhood friends are among those that wrote sections of the novel.
On a scale of 1-10, I'd give a perfect ten. There were over 20 people that were interviewed who did not make the book. Wolfe is going to try to include their memories of Ronnie in his next book, For Cub Fans Only, Volume 3. Former teammates such as Ernie Banks, Randy Hundley, Glenn Beckert, Fergie Jenkins and Don Kessinger were among those cut. Fans are encouraged to send their interesting Ron Santo stories to printedpage@cox.net.
Pat Hughes shared his memories during the first chapter of the book. He retold all of his favorite stories and added a few new ones in. Kerry Wood wrote the second section, followed by Ronnie's family members. My favorite section was probably the one written by producer engineer Matt Boltz, who spent ten years with Ronnie in the WGN Radio booth. Boltzy, who looked at Santo as a father figure, had a very unique perspective that previously went untold.
Santo's sister, ex-wife, men's softball teammate and childhood friend all told unique stories as well. John McDonough of the Blackhawks and David Kaplan of WGN Radio described some of the pranks that they would play on Ronnie in the mid-'90s. Other former booth mates such as Bob Brenly, Thom Brennamen, Cory Provus, Judd Sirott and Andy Masur had great tales to tell as well.
The forward was written by Ron Santo, Jr. and titled Namesakes are People Two. The book can be ordered at ronsantobook.com or by visiting a Chicagoland Jewel or Binny's Beverage Depot. I was sad to finish it, but there are still several more Remembering Ronnie dates on our calender to keep in mind:
August 10, 2011- the statue goes up at Wrigley
This Fall- Jeff Santo releases an updated version of This Old Cub.
This Winter- Baseball Voices CD of Ronnie released by Pat Hughes
That's it for now, I will continue to provide Remembering Ronnie Roundups every month or so.
On a scale of 1-10, I'd give a perfect ten. There were over 20 people that were interviewed who did not make the book. Wolfe is going to try to include their memories of Ronnie in his next book, For Cub Fans Only, Volume 3. Former teammates such as Ernie Banks, Randy Hundley, Glenn Beckert, Fergie Jenkins and Don Kessinger were among those cut. Fans are encouraged to send their interesting Ron Santo stories to printedpage@cox.net.
Pat Hughes shared his memories during the first chapter of the book. He retold all of his favorite stories and added a few new ones in. Kerry Wood wrote the second section, followed by Ronnie's family members. My favorite section was probably the one written by producer engineer Matt Boltz, who spent ten years with Ronnie in the WGN Radio booth. Boltzy, who looked at Santo as a father figure, had a very unique perspective that previously went untold.
Santo's sister, ex-wife, men's softball teammate and childhood friend all told unique stories as well. John McDonough of the Blackhawks and David Kaplan of WGN Radio described some of the pranks that they would play on Ronnie in the mid-'90s. Other former booth mates such as Bob Brenly, Thom Brennamen, Cory Provus, Judd Sirott and Andy Masur had great tales to tell as well.
The forward was written by Ron Santo, Jr. and titled Namesakes are People Two. The book can be ordered at ronsantobook.com or by visiting a Chicagoland Jewel or Binny's Beverage Depot. I was sad to finish it, but there are still several more Remembering Ronnie dates on our calender to keep in mind:
August 10, 2011- the statue goes up at Wrigley
This Fall- Jeff Santo releases an updated version of This Old Cub.
This Winter- Baseball Voices CD of Ronnie released by Pat Hughes
That's it for now, I will continue to provide Remembering Ronnie Roundups every month or so.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Remembering Ronnie Roundup: Book Set to Come Out
Pat Hughes and Rich Wolfe have finished writing their book Ron Santo: A Perfect Ten in honor of the late Cubs legend. It is now available for pre-order on santofilms.com. Preordered copies of the book will be shipped out on Thursday, June 2. The price is $25. Hughes and Wolfe spoke with many people who were touched by Santo and new Ron closely and published their thoughts. Contributors to the book include:
- Ron Santo Jr., Ronnie's son
- Pat Hughes, co-author and Santo's partner on WGN Radio for 15 years
- Kerry Wood, Cubs pitcher from '98 to '08 while Ronnie was in the booth. Santo's favorite current Cub.
- Vicki Santo, Ron's wife
- Jeff Santo, Ron's son
- Linda Santo-Brown, Ron's daughter
- Judy Santo, Ronnie's ex-wife
- Frank Sevelli and Bill Chatalas, childhood friends of Ron Santo
- Bud Selig, MLB commissioner
- Tom Ricketts, the chairman of the Cubs
- Ned Colletti, Dodgers GM and friend of Ron
- Crane Kenney, Cubs President
- John McDonough, former Cubs front office man, now with the Blackhawks
- Mike Murphy, radio personality
- David Kaplan, WGN Radio and Comcast Sports Net host
- Bruce Miles, Cubs beat writer for the Daily Herald
- Fred Mitchell, writer for the Chicago Tribune
- Matt Boltz, producer engineer of Cubs baseball on WGN Radio since 2000
- Judd Sirott, worked with Ron for two years on Cubs radio, current pre/post host
- Cory Provus, worked with Ron for two years on WGN Radio for 1 inning of play-by-play and pregame show
- Andy Masur, was the first to work as the third member of the booth with Pat and Ron, did so far seven seasons
- Thom Brennaman, Ron's only other broadcast partner besides Pat
I cannot wait until I have my hands on a copy of the book!
Monday, April 18, 2011
Remembering Ronnie Roundup
Throughout the 2011 season, we are going to spend a lot of time here on Everything Cubs blog remembering the legendary Ron Santo. Remembering Ronnie Roundups will pop up every once in a while on significant days or when there is a lot of Santo news to report. There were two big events this weekend that were Santo related.
On Friday night prior to the start of the Cubs/Rockies game, Santo was remember with a special program on WGN-TV. It was a quality 30 minute program titled "Ron Santo: In His Own Words". Bob Vorwald did an excellent job producing it and Bob Brenly did the narration. Highlights of Ron's playing days were mixed in with video clips of Ron talking about his baseball career from several different interviews. One of the funniest parts featured Santo leading the rest of the Cubs All Century Team in rehearsal for a 7th Inning Stretch performance. Santo's speech from his number retirement ceremony was replayed to close the show.
On Sunday afternoon, an exciting announcement was made by Ronnie's partner Pat Hughes during the WGN Radio broadcast of the Cubs/Rockies game. A commenter on the Cubs Radio Facebook page inquired about a Ron Santo Baseball Voices CD. Hughes announced that he does indeed plan on creating one of his CDs for #10. He is going to start working on it after this season ends. It is expected to be released at some point next winter. Pat is also writing a book called Ron Santo: A Perfect Ten, expected to come out June 19.
I'll have much more on Santo right here on this blog all summer long.
On Friday night prior to the start of the Cubs/Rockies game, Santo was remember with a special program on WGN-TV. It was a quality 30 minute program titled "Ron Santo: In His Own Words". Bob Vorwald did an excellent job producing it and Bob Brenly did the narration. Highlights of Ron's playing days were mixed in with video clips of Ron talking about his baseball career from several different interviews. One of the funniest parts featured Santo leading the rest of the Cubs All Century Team in rehearsal for a 7th Inning Stretch performance. Santo's speech from his number retirement ceremony was replayed to close the show.
On Sunday afternoon, an exciting announcement was made by Ronnie's partner Pat Hughes during the WGN Radio broadcast of the Cubs/Rockies game. A commenter on the Cubs Radio Facebook page inquired about a Ron Santo Baseball Voices CD. Hughes announced that he does indeed plan on creating one of his CDs for #10. He is going to start working on it after this season ends. It is expected to be released at some point next winter. Pat is also writing a book called Ron Santo: A Perfect Ten, expected to come out June 19.
I'll have much more on Santo right here on this blog all summer long.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Weekend Quick Hits: Santo Special, Kosuke's Health, The Rotation and More
Here's the latest in the world of Cubs baseball!
- WGN-TV will air a Cubs special tonight before the Cubs game against the Rockies. "Ron Santo: In His Own Words" starts at 6:30 CT.
- WGN Radio has announced a seven part series of one-hour interviews featuring Cubs players which will air on the network. The hosts of WGN Sports Night, David Kaplan and Brian Noonan, will also host the series, which is called Cubs Corner. The debut on Tuesday, April 26 at noon features Andrew Cashner and Kerry Wood.
- Patrick Mooney tweets that the Cubs have not yet decided who will start on Tuesday. James Russell and Jeff Samardzija are possibilities, or the Cubs could decide to call-up Ramon Ortiz or Roberto Coello.
- Carrie Muskat reports that Mike Quade is open to bringing a player up from Triple-A to start, but only if they are ready. He wants to talk to his coaches first.
- Kosuke Fukudome, who has been out with a right hamstring strain, did some light running and took batting practice last night. He is close to returning to the lineup.
- Andrew Cashner has no pain and full range of motion in his right shoulder. Muskat reports that the rehab is going well.
- Carlos Zambrano apologized to Mike Quade for leaving the mound too early when he was yanked from a game earlier this week.
- Paul Sullivan says that Sean Marshall is not an option for the rotation.
- The Tennessee Smokies have placed top pitching prospect Trey McNutt on the disabled list.
Sorry about the formating issues on some of the posts lately. We are trying to resolve that problem. That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted!
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