Musial the main focus at Cardinals' fan festival

All day Sunday, 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 Barack Obama saying he was "saddened to learn of the passing of baseball legend Stan Musial."

Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon called Musial "a great American hero who — with the utmost humility — inspired us all to aim high and dream big. The world is emptier today without him, but far better to have known him."

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. "We've told them whatever they would like to do, we would certainly be there for them.

"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.

A tear rolling down one eye, 65-year-old Gene Sandrowski of St. Louis remembered attending a 1954 doubleheader when Musial hit five homers against the New York Giants at Sportsman's Park.

"I snuck in and worked my way down," said Sandrowski, who wore a Cardinals jacket and hat, as did many others. "What a game, what a player. He was a very generous man, too.

"I've got a ball signed by him at home: 'To Gene, to a great baseball fan, Stan Musial Hall of Fame.' Try to get an autograph now, they've got them all fenced off."

The most expensive item in the team store came off the shelf. Richard Dunseth of Jacksonville, Ill., deemed the $900 price tag for an autographed Stan Musial jersey a bargain. For $169, you could purchase an autographed ball in a cube.