Ernie Banks
Inducted:
1977

Player Details
6-1, 180lb (185cm, 81kg)
Born:
January 31, 1931
Dallas, Texas, U.S.
Died:
January 23, 2015
Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
Position:
Shortstop
First baseman
College:
NA
Ernie Banks, fondly known as “Mr. Cub,” is one of the most beloved figures in baseball history. Playing his entire 19-year career with the Chicago Cubs from 1953 to 1971, Banks brought power, charisma, and unmatched dedication to the game. A shortstop and first baseman, he was the first National League player to win back-to-back MVP awards in 1958 and 1959.
Over his career, he collected 2,583 hits, 512 home runs, and 1,636 RBIs, establishing himself as one of the premier sluggers of his generation. Banks earned 14 All-Star selections and hit over 40 home runs in five different seasons. Known for his infectious optimism and phrase, “Let’s play two,” he became a symbol of loyalty and love for the game.
Though he never played in a postseason, his excellence and leadership made him a cornerstone of the Cubs franchise. Ernie Banks was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977.
Banks's Awards and Records:
- 2× National League MVP (1958, 1959)
- Baseball Hall of Fame Class of 1977
- 14× All-Star (1955–1962, 1965, 1967, 1969)
- Gold Glove Award (1960)
- Cubs franchise leader in games played at time of retirement
MLB Records:
- Hit 40+ home runs in five separate seasons
- One of only a few shortstops with 500+ career home runs
- First National League player to win consecutive MVP awards
- Iconic for the phrase “Let’s play two,” symbolizing his love of baseball
MLB Teams:
Chicago Cubs (1953–1971)
Number Worn:
14
MLB Stats:
Seasons:
19 (1953–1971)
Games:
2,528
Hits:
2,583
Home Runs:
512
Runs Batted In:
1,636
Batting Average:
.274
Runs Scored:
1,305
Doubles:
407

