Chicago Cubs: Top home run hitters of all-time

Chicago Cubs Top Home Run Hitters – No. 4: Ron Santo (337)

One of the most inspiring players in baseball history, Ron Santo put together his incredible career while suffering from Type One Juvenile Diabetes.

Despite battling this disease on a daily basis, and keeping it private for most of his career, Santo played in at least 154 games 11 straight seasons. He played in at least 160 games seven times in his career. Between his rookie campaign in 1960 and his final season in 1974 (playing for the White Sox), he hit the field for at least 133 games every year.

He consistency was truly incredible. He had eight consecutive seasons with at least 25 homers but no more than 31, 11 straight seasons with at least 83 RBI, seven straight with no fewer than 83 Runs Scored. He even drew walks consistently, going seven consecutive seasons with at least 86 walks but no more than 96.

He led the Majors in walks four times, On Base Percentage twice, and sacrifice flies three times. He was a nine-time All-Star and finished in the top 20 in MVP voting on six occasions.

The fact Santo was able to play at such a consistently high level for so long while battling diabetes is a terrific testament to his heart and love of the game.

Santo took his rightful place in Cooperstown when the Veteran’s Committee voted him in posthumously in 2012.

He carried that love into the broadcast booth where he was a staple for 20 years. This man loved the Cubs, and it is impossible not to admire Ron Santo.