Chicago Cubs icon Ernie Banks passed away Friday night at age 83. The Cubs were the only team Banks ever played for during a 19-year career from 1953-71. Banks entered the Hall of Fame as a first-ballot selection in 1977.
Cubs legend Ernie Banks dies at 83
Baseball lost a good one Friday night.
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Ricky O'Donnell has covered basketball at all levels for more than a decade at SB Nation. He’s currently the Associate Director of Programming.
Banks earned the nickname “Mr. Cub” during his time playing in front of the Wrigley Field faithful. He was a two-time MVP, 14-time All-Star and ended his career with 512 home runs. He was known for his positive disposition and love of the game, attributes that manifested itself in a catchphrase he became known for: “Let’s play two.”
Banks’ No. 14 is retired by the Cubs and he has a statue outside Wrigley Field. He was named to the Major League Baseball All-Century Team and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013 for his contribution to the sport.
Banks appeared in more major league games without a playoff appearance than anyone in the history of the sport at 2,528. He was a star shortstop for most of his career before moving to first base for his final few seasons.
The Cubs honored Banks on the marquee at Wrigley Field.
The Wrigley Field marquee pays tribute to Mr. Cub on this somber night. pic.twitter.com/OxwtXxkHt4
— MLB (@MLB) January 24, 2015 See More:
