Ernie Banks I believe you were one of the greatest treasures to ever play on the baseball diamond. Of course it is well known the incredible offensive numbers you displayed. You played pretty good defense too. The brightness you brought to a clubhouse could never be measured by a statistic. Had the post-season qualifications been the same in your day as today, you would have had some playoff runs from 1969-1972. If there was a person that ever deserved a championship it was you.
Video Courtesy of MLB.com
It is well known why you also earned another nickname, Mr. Sunshine: your positive personality, your grin as big as the Chicago skyline, integrity, professionalism, and dignity. You served honorably in our military giving up two years of your early twenties that could have made your awesome stats’ even more mind boggling. You were an active member in the Chicago community during and after your baseball career.
You were the first African-American Ford Motor Company dealer in the United Sates. You were as much a part of baseball’s golden days as any name that has ever taken the field. It’s no wonder that you were my father’s favorite player as a boy. I hope in heaven you get to “play two” every time you want.
“Ernie Banks: Mr. Cub and the Summer of ’69” by Phil Rogers tells the story of that 1969 season that got away from Ernie’s perspective, while intertwining stories of the life of Mr. Cub. Click the image below to get your copy.
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