Chicago Cubs: Ernie Banks belongs on the franchise’s Mount Rushmore
The man known as “Mr. Cub,” Ernie Banks is a perfect representation of the sport of baseball. Banks was a true professional, and the face of this organization for 19 seasons. The 14-time All-Star never played for another team and logged the most games for any Cub in history, appearing in 2,528 of them. The shortstop-turned-first baseman finished his career with 512 home runs (one of only 27 MLB players who have ever accomplished that feat) and 1,636 RBI.
Banks led all MLB players in home runs and RBI twice, including the 1958 campaign when he bashed 47 homers and drove in 129 runs on his way to winning the first of two consecutive NL MVP honors. The following season (1960), he won his only Gold Glove honor, showing his value at the plate and in the field.
He is a member of the MLB All-Century Team. Banks also won the Lou Gehrig Memorial Award in 1968 based for his leadership abilities and respect for the game.
With all of his attributes, there is no doubt that Ernie Banks is an all-time Cub great and worthy of the title, “Mr. Cub” … today, tomorrow and forever.