Top Ten All Time Chicago Cubs By Position

Shortstop — Ernie Banks (1953-1971)

Mr. Cub. That should be enough, right?

Let me expand on that.

Mr. Banks played 19 years for the Cubs. He hit .274/.330/.500, with 512 home runs and 1,636 RBI in 2,528 games. He was the first player in National League history to be named MVP in successive seasons (1958-59). In 1958, he set the record for most home runs by a shortstop (47). In 1959, he committed the fewest errors by a shortstop (12) and had the highest fielding percentage (.985). He was also an eleven-time All-Star.

“There’s sunshine, fresh air, and the team’s behind us. Let’s play two.” That was Banks’ signature quote. He just loved baseball, and he especially loved the Chicago Cubs, even though he never made it to the postseason with them.

Four decades after he retired, Banks was still talking up the Cubs to anyone who would listen. He had an infectious smile that would make even the biggest St. Louis Cardinals fan love him.

In 1977, Banks became the eighth player to be elected to the Hall of Fame on his first year of eligibility. In 2013, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama (a noted White Sox fan).

In January of this year, the world lost the presence of Ernie Banks. It was a big blow to the Cubs, to their fans and to the city of Chicago. We can no longer see his smile and experience his sunny disposition. Banks is in the heart of any person who calls him or her self a Cubs fan.

There may be another Mr. Cub, but there will never be another Ernie Banks.

Next: Left Field -- Sweet Swinger From Whistler