Cubs to mark 50th anniversary of Ron Santo's debut with team

The Chicago Cubs will recognize former player and current broadcaster Ron Santo in honor of his 50 years of service to Major League Baseball.

Santo made his MLB debut June 26, 1960 with the Cubs and played 14 seasons as the team's third baseman, and one season with the White Sox. The Cubs will honor him in a special pregame ceremony before their June 28 game vs. the Pittsburgh Pirates.

In addition, Santo is expected to deliver the game's ceremonial first pitch that day and will sing the seventh inning stretch on July 1. Flags honoring his 50 years in baseball will fly from Wrigley Field's roof starting next Monday evening.

"I am so fortunate to have been in baseball for 50 years, and it is incredibly heartwarming to be recognized by the Cubs for that achievement," said Santo. "I'm grateful and thankful to be associated with the Chicago Cubs. I wouldn't change the last 50 years for anything!"

"Ron Santo has contributed so much to the Cubs organization both on and off the field over the last 50 years," said Cubs chairman and owner Tom Ricketts. "We're thrilled to recognize him for his dedication to this team."

To help fans celebrate with Santo, the Cubs are offering a limited allotment of $10 bleacher seats throughout the team's next homestand against Pittsburgh and Cincinnati, June 28-July 4. Fans can purchase these tickets by entering the promo code "SANTO" when purchasing bleacher tickets on Cubs.com.