Sammy Sosa will not attend funeral of Cubs legend Ernie Banks

Yet again, former Chicago Cubs slugger Sammy Sosa finds himself in the news – and not for a good reason.

Sosa declined an invitation to the funeral services of Hall of Famer and Cubs legend Ernie Banks, according to the Chicago Tribune, saying that he did not want to be a distraction Friday. Since the team parted ways after he left mid-game during the 2004 season finale, he has been completely absent from Cubs-related events – including the services set for later this week in Chicago.

He did, however, release a statement regarding the death of Banks, who passed away at age 83 after suffering a heart attack last week.

"“I wanted to express my sincere condolences to the family and fans of Mr. Cub, the legendary Ernie Banks. He was the first African-American to play for the Chicago Cubs, paving the way for many future baseball players like myself. Rest in peace.”"

Sosa and Banks, the only two members of the 500-homer club on the North Side, were said to have a father-and-son relationship, with the Hall of Famer referring to Sosa as “being like a son to me,” according to the Tribune. For the outfielder to decline an invitation is not only troubling – it’s downright wrong.

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As his career declined, Sosa became marred in the steroid scandals – and has since spent the majority of his time avoiding the public eye. While I can’t really blame the guy for not wanting to deal with the media – even nearly a decade later – sometimes we have to step up to the plate (pardon the baseball pun) – and handle our business.

As the team’s record holder for home runs (545), Sosa not only owes it to the organization to make an appearance at the services, but more than anyone, he owes it to Banks himself, who always spoke fondly of Sosa – even traveling to the Dominican Republic to visit and golf with him. Now, ‘Slammin’ Sammy’ is too caught up in his personal image management to do the right thing and support Banks’ family and other members of the Chicago Cubs community.

Growing up, I had nothing but admiration and respect for Sammy Sosa. The Home Run Chase of 1998 is – to this day – my fondest baseball memory. Watching Sosa and the Cubs come within five outs of the National League pennant in 2003 is a close second.

But now, I have to say. This is the last straw. If Sosa can’t man up and pay his respects to a mentor and a friend, then he has no place in the Chicago Cubs family.

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