[Charles Henrickson]

Former Chicago Cubs star Ron Santo, center, talks to Cubs fans after his number was officially retired before the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Sunday, Sept. 28, 2003, in Chicago. Santo joins Ernie Banks, left, and Billy Williams, right, as the only Cub players to have their numbers retired.

Billy Williams, Ron Santo, and Ernie Banks formed the heart of the Cubs order. For nine seasons, 1961-69, you could pencil them in as the # 3, 4, and 5 hitters every day--literally! They were in the lineup together for well over 90% of those games! (I was fortunate enough to see most of those games, either in person or on TV.)

Banks and Williams are in the HOF. Santo ought to be.

[11th Earl of Mar]

Ernie Banks was also a hero of mine- not simply because of his athletic ability, but because of his on the field and off the field personality.

He sent his kids to the same summer camp I went to as a child. And he treated everyone there with kindness and respect, having grace and patience with everyone there.