President Barack Obama released a statement Saturday morning on the passing of Chicago Cubs great Ernie Banks.
Michelle and I send our condolences to the family of Ernie Banks, and to every Chicagoan and baseball fan who loved him.
Ernie came up through the Negro Leagues, making $7 a day. He became the first African-American to play for the Chicago Cubs, and the first number the team retired. Along the way, he became known as much for his 512 home runs and back-to-back National League MVPs as for his cheer, his optimism, and his love of the game. As a Hall-of-Famer, Ernie was an incredible ambassador for baseball, and for the city of Chicago. He was beloved by baseball fans everywhere, including Michelle, who, when she was a girl, used to sit with her dad and watch him play on TV. And in 2013, it was my honor to present Ernie with the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Somewhere, the sun is shining, the air is fresh, his team's behind him, and Mr. Class — "Mr. Cub" — is ready to play two.
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As Obama points out, he presented Banks with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013. The president is from Chicago, but he roots for the other team in the Windy City. Still, it's hard for Obama not to admire Banks.
When Banks was awarded the medal, he also gave Obama a special piece of memorabilia. Banks gave him a Jackie Robinson bat.
Banks, known as “Mr. Cub," passed away Friday night at the age of 83.