Barack Obama has paid tribute to Chicago Cubs legend Ernie Banks following his death on Friday at the age of 83.
Revered as arguably the greatest player in the club's history and nicknamed Mr Cub, Banks played his entire 19-year career with the Cubs, finishing with 512 home runs.
The 1977 Hall of Fame inductee featured in 14 All-Star games, won two National League MVP awards and two NL batting titles.
In 2013, Banks was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the United States' highest civilian honour, by Obama.
And the President of the United States has hailed Banks.
A statement issued on Saturday by Obama said: "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."