WHO IS ERNIE BANKS
- Ernie Banks is remembered as one of the most beloved figures in the history of American sports. Known affectionately as “Mr. Cub,” he spent his entire 19-year Major League Baseball career with the Chicago Cubs, becoming not only one of the greatest players to ever wear a Cubs uniform, but also a symbol of joy, resilience, and unwavering love for the game.
- Born in Dallas, Texas, in 1931, Banks grew up during a time when opportunities for African American athletes in professional sports were extremely limited. Before joining the Cubs, he played for the legendary Kansas City Monarchs, one of the most historic teams in Negro League history. In 1953, Banks made history when he became the first Black player to join the Chicago Cubs, helping to further open the doors of opportunity in Major League Baseball during the era following the pioneering breakthrough of Jackie Robinson.
- Banks’ talent on the field quickly established him as one of the most dynamic players in baseball. Over the course of his remarkable career, he was selected to 14 All-Star teams, won back-to-back National League Most Valuable Player Awards in 1958 and 1959, and became one of the most powerful hitting shortstops the game had ever seen. By the time he retired, Banks had hit 512 career home runs, a milestone that placed him among baseball’s most elite sluggers and made him the first player in Chicago Cubs history to reach the 500-home-run mark. In recognition of his extraordinary achievements, he was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977.
- Yet statistics alone do not explain why Ernie Banks remains such a cherished figure decades after his playing days ended. What truly set him apart was his spirit. Banks approached every game with enthusiasm and gratitude, famously declaring, “Let’s Play Two!”—a phrase that captured his joy for baseball and his belief that the game, like life, should be embraced with energy and optimism. That expression became one of the most recognizable sayings in baseball history and continues to inspire generations of fans.
- Banks’ connection to Chicago ran deep. He became the heart and soul of the Cubs franchise and a beloved ambassador for the sport throughout the city and beyond. Few athletes in professional sports history have been so closely identified with one team and one community. His influence extended far beyond the baseball diamond as he spent decades mentoring young people, supporting charitable causes, and encouraging others to pursue their dreams with perseverance and integrity.
- In recognition of his lasting impact, the Chicago Cubs retired his jersey number 14, and a statue of Banks now stands outside historic Wrigley Field, where fans from around the world gather to celebrate his legacy.
- Ernie Banks’ story is one of excellence, courage, and character. He broke barriers, redefined what was possible for a shortstop, and brought joy to millions who watched him play. More importantly, he showed that greatness is not measured only by records and awards, but by the way a person treats others and the example they leave behind.
- Today, the spirit of Ernie Banks lives on through the message he shared so often: approach every day with optimism, gratitude, and the willingness to give your best.
- In the words that continue to echo throughout baseball history “Let’s Play Two.”
