Ernie Banks

Ernie Banks was known as “Mr. Cub”, not only for his outstanding performance on the field, but also for his sunny disposition.

A native of Dallas, Texas, Ernie was signed by famed scout Buck O'Neil to play for the Negro League Kansas City Monarchs at age 18. After a two-year stint in the Army he returned to the Monarchs, quickly gaining the attention of big-league scouts. Signed by Chicago in 1953, Ernie played his entire big-league career for the Cubs, a career that saw him win back-to-back National League MVP awards in 1958 and 1959. Ernie's career totals of 512 home runs and 2,583 hits earned him a first ballot election to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977.

During his playing career Ernie was part of the Cactus League for 17 Major League seasons, training with the Cubs in both Mesa, and Scottsdale. He'll always be remembered by baseball fans for his infectious smile and ever present phrase - "Let's play two!”