RetroSeasons recaps past sports seasons through stories, photos, videos, and stats from every team, league, and stadium in history. Coverage includes the NBA, NFL, MLB and NHL, as well as vintage media from defunct teams and leagues.
Ernie Banks, also known as Mr. Cub, was one of the most beloved baseball players of all time. He was a first baseman and shortstop for the Chicago Cubs and played in the National League for 19 seasons. He was an All-Star for 11 consecutive years, a two-time MVP, and a Gold Glove Award winner.
Banks was an incredibly talented athlete
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Ernie Banks, also known as Mr. Cub, was one of the most beloved baseball players of all time. He was a first baseman and shortstop for the Chicago Cubs and played in the National League for 19 seasons. He was an All-Star for 11 consecutive years, a two-time MVP, and a Gold Glove Award winner.
Banks was an incredibly talented athlete from the start. He began playing baseball at the age of 17 and was signed by the Kansas City Monarchs of the Negro Leagues in 1950. After a few years with the Monarchs, he joined the Chicago Cubs in 1953.
Banks was an instant success with the Cubs. He was an All-Star in his first year with the team and quickly became a fan favorite. He was a consistent power hitter and was known for his ability to hit home runs. He led the National League in home runs twice and in RBIs twice. He also had a career batting average of .274 and a slugging percentage of .500.
Banks was also known for his leadership and sportsmanship. He was a leader in the clubhouse and was known for his positive attitude and enthusiasm. He was a team captain for seven seasons and was the first African-American to be named team captain in Major League Baseball.
Banks was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977. He is remembered as one of the greatest players in the history of the game and is still beloved by fans of the Chicago Cubs.
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Stories, Photos, Videos, Podcasts, and Publications featuring Ernie Banks Biography
The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum mourns the passing of Class of 1977...
The Baseball Hall of Fame Remembers Ernie Banks / The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum mourns the passing of Class of 1977 member Ernie Banks. January 31, 1931 - January 23, 2015.
During the 1971 season, the Chicago Cubs and the Los Angeles Dodgers had notable performances...
Chicago Cubs vs Los Angeles Dodgers - Scully - Radio Broadcast / During the 1971 season, the Chicago Cubs and the Los Angeles Dodgers had notable performances and competed fiercely for a spot in the playoffs. The Cubs showcased their offensive power and solid pitching, led by players like Ron Santo, Billy Williams, and Ernie Banks. They had a strong start to the season and remained in the playoff race throughout July. However, their pitching staff faced challenges at times, impacting their consistency and requiring improvement to maintain their competitive edge.
On the other hand, the Dodgers were renowned for their pitching dominance, with Sandy Koufax leading the way. Their strong bullpen and pitching rotation allowed them to shut down opponents effectively. Throughout July, the Dodgers continued to perform consistently, relying on their pitching staff to secure crucial victories and maintain their position as a formidable force in the National League.
In July, both teams were determined to secure a strong position in their divisions. The Dodgers' pitching staff stood out as their main strength, ensuring they remained a top contender. Conversely, the Cubs relied on their offensive prowess, but they encountered difficulties due to inconsistencies in their pitching performances. Despite the challenges faced by both teams, they remained in contention for a playoff berth, making the 1971 season an exciting and competitive one for fans and players alike.
The 1959 All-Star game was the first year the MLB held an All Star Game...
1959 MLB All-Star Game - Radio Broadcast / The 1959 All-Star game was the first year the MLB held an All Star Game Double Header. The first game of 1959 was held at Forbes Field in Pittsburgh. The second game would be played a month later in Los Angeles. The experiment of two All-Star Games continued for four seasons; the league returned to just one annual game in 1963. In this first game of 1959, the American League started the 39 year old veteran Early Wynn while the National League went with 22 year old Don Drysdale.
This 1957 regular season game at Ebbets field sees the Brooklyn Dodgers hosting the...
Chicago Cubs vs Brooklyn Dodgers - Radio Broadcast / This 1957 regular season game at Ebbets field sees the Brooklyn Dodgers hosting the Chicago Cubs. On the mound are two young pitchers, the Cubs rookie Dick Drott and the Dodger's Sandy Koufax. At this point, Koufax is in his 3rd season and this game is his his 21st career start.
The legendary Vin Scully calls the game In his 8th year in the broadcast booth and the Dodgers final season in Brooklyn.