Ernie Banks Biography

Fast Facts

• Was awarded a Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama in 2013
• Was one of three shortstops, along with Honus Wagner and Cal Ripken, Jr․, to be named to Major League Baseball's All-Century Team in 1999
• Became the first shortstop and the ninth player overall to hit 500 home runs during his career on May 12, 1970
• Was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977
• Spent two years serving in the U․S․ Army
• Made his debut with the Kansas City Monarchs in 1950, and when he sold his contract to the Chicago Cubs in 1953, he became the first African-American player for the franchise
• Quote: "I wanted to finish my career with one team, in one city, one mayor, one park, one owner․ I did that ․․․ So my career was very unique and I am proud of it․"
• Best known as a former professional baseball player who played first base for the Chicago Cubs and is regarded as one of the greatest players of all time
• Played for the Chicago Cubs from 1953 to 1971, starting out as a shortstop and switching to first base in 1962
• Known as "Mr․ Cub" and possessing a joyous disposition, he could often be heard uttering his signature line: "There's sunshine, fresh air, and the team's behind us․ Let's play two․"