Ernie Banks, American baseball player and coach (b. 1931)

Ernest Banks, a towering figure in American professional baseball, was born on January 31, 1931, and passed away on January 23, 2015. Universally known by his cherished nicknames, "Mr. Cub" and "Mr. Sunshine," Banks left an indelible mark on Major League Baseball (MLB), primarily through his remarkable 19-season career (1953-1971) as a star shortstop and first baseman for the beloved Chicago Cubs. His enduring legacy was solidified with his induction into the prestigious National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977, followed by his selection to the esteemed Major League Baseball All-Century Team in 1999, accolades that underscore his status as one of the game's all-time greats.

Early Career and Ascendance to Stardom

Banks' journey in professional baseball commenced in 1950, a pivotal era for the sport, when he joined the Kansas City Monarchs in the Negro American League. This period was significant, as it marked a transitional phase following Jackie Robinson's groundbreaking entry into MLB in 1947, with talented Black players like Banks still showcasing their skills in the Negro Leagues. His burgeoning career was briefly interrupted by a two-year stint serving in the U.S. military, a common experience for many athletes of his generation. Upon his return, he rejoined the Monarchs before making his historic debut in the National League in September 1953, stepping onto the grand stage of MLB with the Chicago Cubs.

His immediate impact was undeniable. In his first full season in 1954, Banks was the National League Rookie of the Year runner-up, a testament to his impressive performance where he played 147 games and hit 19 home runs with 79 RBIs. From 1955 onwards, Banks solidified his reputation as an elite talent, earning National League All-Star selections for 11 consecutive seasons and participating in 13 of the 15 All-Star Games held during that prolific period. By the late 1950s, Ernie Banks was the undeniable main attraction for the Chicago Cubs, captivating fans with his powerful bat and infectious enthusiasm. His extraordinary talent was formally recognized with back-to-back National League Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards in 1958 and 1959. During these MVP campaigns, Banks not only led the NL in home runs in 1958 (47) and 1959 (45) but also impressively led the league in RBIs in both seasons (129 in '58, 143 in '59), a rare feat highlighting his consistent offensive prowess. In 1960, he further cemented his legacy by becoming the Cubs' first player to ever win a Gold Glove Award, acknowledging his exceptional defensive skills at shortstop.

Transition, Milestones, and Retirement

As his career progressed, Banks transitioned from shortstop, one of baseball's most physically demanding positions, to first base in 1962. This strategic move allowed him to extend his career and continue contributing his potent bat to the Cubs' lineup while managing the physical toll of the game. Between 1967 and 1971, Banks took on a dual role as a player-coach, offering invaluable mentorship to younger players while still performing on the field. His immense popularity and connection with the fanbase were evident in 1969 when a Chicago Sun-Times fan poll overwhelmingly voted him the greatest Cub ever, a testament to his iconic status within the franchise.

A crowning achievement of his illustrious career came on May 12, 1970, at the iconic Wrigley Field, when Ernie Banks hit his 500th career home run off Pat Jarvis of the Atlanta Braves. This monumental blast made him only the ninth player in MLB history to reach the 500-homer plateau, solidifying his place among baseball's most prolific sluggers. Banks officially retired from playing after the 1971 season, though he remained with the Cubs as a coach in 1972. His enduring legacy with the team was permanently etched into history on August 22, 1982, when the Cubs retired his uniform number 14, making him the first player in franchise history to receive such an honor.

Legacy Beyond the Diamond

Ernie Banks' impact extended far beyond the baseball field. Throughout his career and long after his retirement, he remained deeply active and influential within the Chicago community. He dedicated himself to various philanthropic endeavors, founding a charitable organization focused on supporting youth and educational initiatives. Demonstrating his trailblazing spirit, Banks also became the first Black Ford Motor Company dealer in the United States, breaking significant barriers in the business world. While an unsuccessful bid for a local political office showed his civic engagement, it was his broader contributions to sports and society that earned him the nation's highest civilian honor.

On November 20, 2013, President Barack Obama awarded Ernie Banks the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom, recognizing not only his profound influence on baseball but also his embodiment of sportsmanship, positivity, and his pioneering spirit as an African American athlete and entrepreneur. Banks resided in both the Los Angeles and Chicago areas throughout his life, forever associated with the city and team he so famously represented.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ernie Banks

Who was Ernie Banks?
Ernie Banks was an iconic American professional baseball player, primarily known for his legendary 19-season career (1953-1971) as a shortstop and first baseman for the Chicago Cubs in Major League Baseball (MLB). He was nicknamed "Mr. Cub" and "Mr. Sunshine" and is widely regarded as one of baseball's greatest players.
What were Ernie Banks' major achievements?
Banks' major achievements include being a two-time National League Most Valuable Player (1958, 1959), an 11-time All-Star, and the first Chicago Cub to win a Gold Glove Award (1960). He hit 500 career home runs and was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977. His uniform number 14 was the first ever retired by the Cubs, and he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013.
When was Ernie Banks inducted into the Hall of Fame?
Ernie Banks was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977, in his first year of eligibility.
Why was Ernie Banks called "Mr. Cub" and "Mr. Sunshine"?
"Mr. Cub" reflected his unparalleled loyalty and dedication to the Chicago Cubs, having played his entire 19-year MLB career with the team. "Mr. Sunshine" captured his perpetually positive attitude, infectious optimism, and famous catchphrase, "Let's play two!" which embodied his love for baseball.
Did Ernie Banks play in the Negro Leagues?
Yes, before joining Major League Baseball, Ernie Banks began his professional baseball career in 1950 with the Kansas City Monarchs in the Negro American League, a significant league during an era before MLB was fully integrated.
What was the significance of Ernie Banks hitting his 500th home run?
Hitting his 500th career home run on May 12, 1970, at Wrigley Field was a monumental milestone. It made him only the ninth player in MLB history at that time to reach this exclusive club, further cementing his status as one of the game's premier power hitters.
What notable award did Ernie Banks receive outside of baseball?
Beyond his extensive baseball accolades, Ernie Banks was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom on November 20, 2013, by President Barack Obama. This is the highest civilian honor in the United States, recognizing his contributions to sports and society.