50 years ago, the Chicago Cubs traded legendary player Ron Santo to the crosstown rival White Sox, preventing him from spending his entire career with the Cubs. Santo, who was coming off a third consecutive All-Star appearance, ultimately retired after a lone season with the White Sox in 1974. The move marked a sell-off for the Cubs, leading to a rebuilding effort after a fifth-place finish.

Why It Matters

Despite the trade preventing Santo from finishing his career with the Cubs, he built a lasting legacy as a staple at the hot corner for over a decade, displaying unbridled passion for the game, even while battling the effects of diabetes. His impact is still revered by Cubs fans of every generation.

By the Numbers
  • Santo's 72.1 bWAR ranks second in Cubs franchise history, trailing only Cap Anson.
  • He played over 2,100 games in a Cubs uniform and hit more than 335 home runs while quietly battling the effects of diabetes.
State of Play
  • Retired after a lone season with the White Sox in 1974.
  • His impact on Cubs fans of every generation remains profound, even after being on the receiving end of tough luck throughout his career.
Bottom Line

Ron Santo's trade to the White Sox prevented him from finishing his career with the Cubs, but his legacy as a passionate and enduring figure still resonates profoundly with Cubs fans.