Vital Statistics:
Born: Jan. 31, 1931 in Dallas, Texas
Teams: Chicago Cubs (1953-1971)
Inducted into Hall of Fame: 1977
Batted: Right
Threw: Right
Primary position: Shortstop (but actually played more games at first base after moving there in 1962)
Career Highlights:
- "Mr. Cub" was elected in his first year of eligibility, known for his optimistic outlook on life. His signature phrase, "let's play two," was something he said often to others because of his love of the game.
- 11-time All-Star and two-time NL MVP.
- Hit 512 home runs and twice led the NL in home runs. His 277 homers as a shortstop were the most until Cal Ripken Jr.
- Won Gold Glove in 1960.
- First black player on the Cubs, and started his pro career with the Kansas City Monarchs of the Negro Leagues in 1950.
- Holds the record for number of games played without a postseason appearance (2,528).
After Baseball:
- Was a coach for the Cubs after his retirement and filled in as manager on May 8, 1973 after Whitey Lockman was ejected. So technically (but not officially), he was the first black manager in big-league history.
- Involved in several charities and business ventures.
