Ernest “Ernie” Banks (January 31, 1931-) remains, without a doubt, one of the most beloved Chicago Cubs players in the history of the franchise. “Mr. Cub”, as he is called, played his entire career at shortstop and first base, with the Northsiders (1953-1971). In 1959, Ernie Banks became the first shortstop in the history of the National League to win back-to-back MVP awards. Despite never playing a single playoff game in his 19-year career, Banks was also known as “Mr. Sunshine”, due to his upbeat demeanor and pure love for the game. Ernie famously stated, “It’s a beautiful day for a ballgame… Let’s play two!” Ernie Banks was selected 14 All Star games, was a Gold Glove winner in 1960, won two MVP awards (1958, 1959), is a member of the 500 Home Run Club (512), and will forever be remembered at the Friendly Confines of Wrigley Field by his retired number 14 and a statue erected outside the ballpark. Ernest Ernie Banks was elected on the first ballot to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977.
