Ernie Banks, affectionately known as “Mr. Cub,” was a legendary player for the Chicago Cubs whose life story is a testament to resilience and kindness. Born on January 31, 1931, in Dallas, Texas, Banks grew up in a segregated society, facing racial barriers that could have derailed his dreams. Despite this, his love for baseball shone through, leading him to join the Cubs in 1953, where he became the first Black player for the team.
One of the most moving chapters of his life came in 1969, a season that held promise for the Cubs. Banks, then in his late 30s, was still a beloved figure, known for his infectious optimism and the phrase “Let’s play two!” However, the team struggled, and the season ended in heartbreak as the Cubs missed the playoffs. Amidst this disappointment, Banks received a letter from a young fan named Tommy, a boy battling leukemia who idolized him. Tommy wrote about how watching Banks play gave him hope during his hospital stays.
Moved by the letter, Banks visited Tommy at the hospital, bringing with him a signed bat and jersey. The two spent hours talking about baseball, with Banks sharing stories of his career and encouraging Tommy to keep fighting. Tommy’s face lit up, and for a moment, the pain seemed to fade. Tragically, Tommy passed away a few months later, but his family later told Banks that his visit had given Tommy the strength to smile through his final days.
Banks continued to embody generosity, often visiting sick children and supporting community causes even after retiring. His legacy extends beyond his Hall of Fame stats—512 home runs and 1,636 RBIs—to the countless lives he touched with his compassion. Ernie Banks passed away on January 23, 2015, but his spirit lives on, a beacon of hope for Cubs fans and a reminder of the power of kindness.