Ernie Banks, a product of Dallas' Booker T. Washington High School (1946-49), is known as the greatest power-hitting shortstop of all time. Without ever having played a day in the minors, Banks joined the Chicago Cubs in September 1953. In 1958, he led the National League with 47 home runs, a record for a shortstop at that time, and drove in 129 runs. Banks won consecutive National League MVP awards in 1958 and 1959. Nineteen years and 2,528 games after signing with the Cubs, he retired with 512 home runs. Chicago fans voted him the "Greatest Cub Ever" in 1969. He was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977 and the Texas Sports Hall of Fame in 1970.

"Let's play two!"

Ernie Banks's iconic phrase "Let's play two!" wasn't born from a single, specific event, but rather encapsulated his boundless enthusiasm for baseball and life. Throughout his career with the Chicago Cubs, Banks consistently expressed a deep love for the game, viewing each day as an opportunity for joy. This sentiment, often uttered during interviews and casual conversations, reflected his desire to maximize the experience of playing baseball, especially during doubleheaders. It became a symbol of his optimistic spirit and unwavering dedication to the sport, resonating with fans and cementing his legacy as "Mr. Cub." The phrase represented not just extra innings, but a philosophy of embracing every moment.