Cubs honor Santo with Wrigley Field statue

CHICAGO, Aug. 11 (UPI) -- Visitors to Wrigley Field in Chicago will be greeted by a statue of nine-time all-star third baseman Ron Santo, the late and beloved Cubs radio announcer.

A bronze statue of Santo throwing a ball to first base was unveiled outside right field before Wednesday's game. The beloved Santo, a lifelong diabetic, played 14 years in the Major Leagues and spent 21 years as a Cubs broadcaster, the Chicago Tribune said.

He was known for jumping up and joyfully clicking his heels during the Cubs' memorable 1969 season.

"He's here. I know he is," said former teammate Billy Williams. Santo, who remained active despite losing both legs to diabetes, died in December at age 70.

The team planned to spread some of his ashes at Wrigley Field before Thursday afternoon's game against the Washington Nationals near a foul pole flying a No. 10 flag, Santo's retired number.

The Santo statue joins statues of Cubs greats Williams, Ernie Banks and Hall of Fame broadcaster Harry Caray outside the historic ball park.