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Chicago Cubs: Ernie Banks’ statue returns home to Wrigley Field
By David Miniel
It’s that time of the year when baseball fans across the globe celebrate the start of a fresh season – starting with the Chicago Cubs hosting the St. Louis Cardinals.
Those who attend games at ‘The Friendly Confines’ eventually find themselves taking pictures in front of statues that are on display outside Wrigley Field before and after games. Legends of the organization such as Billy Williams, Ron Santo, Harry Caray and Ernie Banks himself, were immortalized over the years.
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Shortly after Mr. Cub passed away, his statue was relocated to the Daley Plaza, where fans gathered around to pay their respects to a fallen hero of not only baseball, but the city of Chicago as well. People from all over flocked around Ernie’s sculpture, that reads the infamous words ‘Let’s Play Two.”
To honor the Cubs’ most beloved player, the entire team will wear No. 14 patches throughout the season. If you missed the start of Spring Training, Cubbie blue hats with Ernie’s number were worn as a scheduled split-squad day kicked off Cactus League play for the North Siders.
What a beautiful coincidence.
Now featured on the teams official Facebook page, Ernie’s statue has returned home but has found itself in a new location. Right in front of the Wrigley Field Marquee.
It definitely feels good knowing that his statue is back where it belongs, in a place where he spent his entire Major League career playing. This season is going to feel different now that the greatest Chicago Cub of all time is no longer with us, but comforting to know that he’s reunited with Ron Santo once again.
You would have to think that the new video board in left field will pay tribute to Ernie throughout the game between the Cardinals and Cubs tomorrow night. Hopefully, this team can do big things in honor of both Ron Santo and Ernie Banks in 2015.
With that being said, welcome home Mr. Cub.