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Big names from sports and beyond pay respects to Mr. Cub

Big names from sports and beyond say #LetsPlayTwo

By Dakota Gardner

Ernie Banks spent 19 seasons playing for the Cubs, earning the famous nickname "Mr. Cub" in the process. On Friday, Banks passed away at the age of 83.

Banks was beloved in the city of Chicago and throughout the MLB community. He began his career with the Negro Leagues' Kansas City Monarchs, but joined the Cubs in 1953 and was the first black player to ever play for the franchise. After 14 All-Star appearances and two MVP awards, he retired following the 1971 season, racking up 512 HRs and 2,583 hits in the process. He loved baseball so much, his catchphrase became "let's play two," referring to a desire to play a doubleheader every day he could.

He earned induction to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977, elected on the first ballot. The Cubs retired his number in 1982:

In the years since, Banks still showed his love for the Cubs, returning to Wrigley Field on many occasions to lead fans in the traditional singing of Take Me Out to the Ball Game:

And even throwing out a first pitch or two:

As the baseball community learned of Mr. Cub's passing, many shared their thoughts, favorite memories and images of Banks on social media:

 

Post by Chicago Mayor's Office.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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