Chicago Cubs legend Ernie Banks passed away on Friday night at age 83. Banks was a two-time MVP, 14-time All-Star and first ballot Hall of Fame inductee in 1977. He was known for his sunny disposition and his loyalty to the Cubs as baseball’s all-time leader in games played (2,528) without a postseason appearance.
President Obama mourns the loss of Ernie Banks
The Hall of Fame shortstop received a Presidential Medal of Freedom from Obama in 2013.
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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 also received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013 for his contribution to sports. President Barack Obama and wife Michelle issued a statement after Banks’ passing:
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Michelle and I send our condolences to the family of Ernie Banks, and to every Chicagoan and baseball fan who loved him.
Ernie came up through the Negro Leagues, making $7 a day. He became the first African-American to play for the Chicago Cubs, and the first number the team retired. Along the way, he became known as much for his 512 home runs and back-to-back National League MVPs as for his cheer, his optimism, and his love of the game. As a Hall-of-Famer, Ernie was an incredible ambassador for baseball, and for the city of Chicago. He was beloved by baseball fans everywhere, including Michelle, who, when she was a girl, used to sit with her dad and watch him play on TV. And in 2013, it was my honor to present Ernie with the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Somewhere, the sun is shining, the air is fresh, his team’s behind him, and Mr. Class - “Mr. Cub” - is ready to play two.
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