Chicago Cubs: Ernie Banks Dead at Age 83

“Mr. Cub” Ernie Banks, one of Chicago’s favorite all-time athlete has died. The Hall of Fame slugger and two-time MVP died Friday night at age 83.

The Cubs announced Banks’ death, but did not provide a cause.

Ernie Banks debuted as a shortstop on September 17, 1953, and was as an 11-time All-Star from 1953-71.

Banks won the MVP award in 1958 and 1959.

He hit 44 home runs in 1955, 28 home runs in 1956, 43 home runs in 1957, 47 home runs in 1958, 45 home runs in 1959, and 41 home runs in 1960. Those 248 home runs from 1955-1960 were the most in major league baseball — beating the home run figures for Hank Aaron and Willie Mays.

Ernie Banks hit 512 home runs during his 19-year career. The Cubs paid tribute to Banks on the Wrigley marquee Friday night …

Banks was famous for saying, “It’s a great day for baseball. Let’s play two!” — the famous phrase is engraved his statue outside Wrigley Field.

Banks’ No. 14 was the first jersey number retired by the Cubs. His jersey hangs from the left-field foul pole at Wrigley Field.