Ernie Banks

Born in Dallas, Texas, Ernie Banks was a paragon of perseverance, breaking into professional baseball in the Negro Leagues before becoming one of the first African American players for the Chicago Cubs. His career was a symphony of hits and home runs, punctuated by his legendary "Let's play two!" mantra, uttered on sweltering double-header days, encapsulating his boundless love for the game.

While his dedication to baseball was absolute, his connection to the Jewish faith was, shall we say, non-existent. Ernie Banks was, in fact, Christian, a detail that might disappoint those hoping to find a hidden matzah ball in the annals of baseball greatness.

Nevertheless, his Kvell-worthiness is off the charts. A two-time National League MVP, fourteen-time All-Star, and a first-ballot Hall of Famer, Banks brought immeasurable joy to generations of Cubs fans, even if a World Series ring eluded him. His legacy of sportsmanship and pure passion for the game transcends any specific identity.

So, while we can't claim him for the tribe, we can certainly appreciate the immense talent and spirit of "Mr. Cub." He proves that some things, like the joy of baseball, are universally kvel-worthy, no matter your background.