Ernie Banks

Ernie Banks (born January 31, 1931) is an American former Major League baseball player who played from 1953 to 1971. Banks is a member of the Baseball Hall of Fame. His nickname was "Mr. Cub".

Related Topics:
January 31 - 1931 - American - Major League - Baseball - 1953 - 1971 - Baseball Hall of Fame

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He was born in Dallas, Texas, signed with the Kansas City Monarchs of the Negro American League in 1950 and broke into the major leagues in 1953 with the Chicago Cubs as their first black player. Banks played for the Cubs his entire career starting at shortstop and moving to first base in 1962. He wore the number 14 as a Cub, and is one of only four Cubs players, who have had their number retired by the organization. He is well known for his catch phrase of "let's play two", expressing his wish to play a double-header every day out of his pure love for the game of baseball.

Related Topics:
Dallas, Texas - Kansas City Monarchs - Negro American League - 1950 - Chicago Cubs - Shortstop - 1962

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Banks won the National League Most Valuable Player Award twice, in 1958 and 1959. This feat is amazing, since the Cubs were never pennant contenders during Banks' career and this award is usually given to players who contribute substantially to their teams' championship drives. A contemporary sportswriter remarked that, "Without Ernie Banks, the Cubs would have finished the season in Albuquerque!"

Related Topics:
Most Valuable Player - 1958 - 1959

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On 22 August 1982 No. 14 became the first player to have his number retired by the Chicago Cubs.

Related Topics:
22 August - 1982

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