Black History Month Profile: Monte Irvin and Ernie Banks

Monte Irvin

Monte Irvin is another in a line of African-Americans who took the opportunity to play in Major Leagues after Jackie Robinson integrated the game. He played his first game for the New York Giants in 1950, and played 9 seasons in total, 8 with the Giants and 1 with the Cubs.

Before he joined the Giants, he starred in the Negro Leagues and was a five-tool player known for his power, speed, and fielding prowess. In 1951, he led the National League in RBI and stole home in the World Series that year.

He was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1973.

Ernie Banks

In Chicago, he’s known by one name - Mr. Cub.

For 19 years, he was an icon of Chicago. He was a great all-around player, and known for his power, he was a favorite of fans. Although the Cubs for the most part were horrible when he played, he was elected to 11 All Star Games and as well won the MVP Award twice. All in all, he 512 home runs in his career and is beloved til’ this very day at Wrigley and throughout Chicago.

He started in the Negro Leagues in 1950, and was signed by Cool “Papa” Bell to the Kansas City Monarchs. Banks was signed by the Cubs in 1953, and became a regular player in 1954.

He was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977.