ST. LOUIS — Stan the Man was the dominant topic at the Cardinals’ annual fan festival yesterday. Outside Busch Stadium, it was totally about paying tribute, too.
All day, fans ignored near-freezing temperatures and gathered around the larger of the two Musial statues at the ballpark, remembering the Hall of Famer and franchise icon who died Saturday at 92. Team flags were at half-staff.
Among the tributes was a statement from President Obama saying he was “saddened to learn of the passing of baseball legend Stan Musial.”
The team was awaiting word from Musial’s family on arrangements for a formal tribute. Weather could preclude a home-plate ceremony and casket viewing for fans such as was done when broadcaster Jack Buck died in 2002.
“It’s the end of an incredible era,” team chairman Bill DeWitt Jr. said. “Stan epitomized everything that’s great about Cardinal baseball in every way.”
Despite the weather there was a game-day feel at the ballpark. Dozens at a time congregated around the statue, often blocking a lane of traffic to get the perfect photo. Many fans dropped off mementoes, including miniature bats, balls inscribed with messages, hats, flowers and flags at the base.