Ernie Banks

Date of Birth: January 31, 1931

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: January 23, 2015

Biography

Ernie Banks, known affectionately as “Mr. Cub” and “Mr. Sunshine,” was a professional baseball player who spent his entire Major League Baseball career with the Chicago Cubs, spanning from 1953 to 1971. Born in Dallas, Texas, Banks was a standout athlete from an early age and began his professional career in the Negro Leagues with the Kansas City Monarchs. His exceptional talent and charismatic personality quickly caught the attention of MLB scouts, leading to his debut with the Cubs. Banks was primarily a shortstop before moving to first base later in his career. He was an eleven-time All-Star and won back-to-back National League MVP awards in 1958 and 1959. Despite never appearing in a postseason game, Banks is remembered for his infectious enthusiasm and love for the game, often captured in his famous phrase, “Let’s play two!” He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977.

5 Interesting Facts about Ernie Banks

1. Ernie Banks was the first African American player to play for the Chicago Cubs.

2. He hit 512 home runs during his career, a record for a shortstop at the time.

3. Banks served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War before starting his MLB career.

4. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013.

5. Banks was also a successful businessman, owning multiple enterprises post-retirement.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Ernie Banks

1. “It’s a beautiful day for a ballgame… Let’s play two!”

2. “The only way to prove that you’re a good sport is to lose.”

3. “Loyalty and friendship, which is to me the same, created all the wealth that I’ve ever thought I’d have.”

4. “You must try to generate happiness within yourself. If you aren’t happy in one place, chances are you won’t be happy anyplace.”

5. “I never wanted all this hoopla. All I ever wanted to do is play baseball.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Ernie Banks had an estimated net worth of $4 million.

Children

Ernie Banks had four children: twin sons Jerry and Joey Banks from his first marriage to Eloyce Johnson, and a son named Joey Banks and a daughter named Jan Banks.