RetroSeasons recaps past sports seasons through stories, photos, videos, and stats from every team, league, and stadium in history. Coverage includes the NBA, NFL, MLB and NHL, as well as vintage media from defunct teams and leagues.
Ernie Banks, affectionately known as "Mr. Cub," is remembered as one of the most beloved figures in the history of Major League Baseball. Born on January 31, 1931, in Dallas, Texas, Banks began his professional baseball career with the Kansas City Monarchs of the Negro Leagues. His talent quickly caught the attention of Major League scouts, and in
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1957 Chicago Cubs vs Brooklyn Dodgers - Radio Broadcast
On July 20, 1957, the Brooklyn Dodgers faced the Chicago Cubs at Ebbets Field in a mid-season matchup. Don Drysdale took the mound for the Dodgers, while Dave Hillman started for the Cubs. At this point in the season, the Dodgers were in a close race in the National League, trying to keep pace with the Milwaukee Braves. The Cubs, on the other hand, were struggling to climb out of the lower half of the standings. Key players like Duke Snider and Gil Hodges were crucial for the Dodgers’ offense, while the Cubs relied on Ernie Banks and Lee Walls for their batting strength.
The game began with the Cubs scoring an early run in the first inning, but the Dodgers quickly responded with a four-run outburst in their half of the first, highlighted by a two-run double from Gino Cimoli. Don Drysdale settled in after a shaky start, while the Dodgers added insurance runs with a solo homer from Randy Jackson in the sixth inning and another from Duke Snider in the eighth. The Cubs mounted a late rally in the seventh inning, with Ernie Banks hitting a three-run homer, and added another run in the ninth on Banks’ second homer of the game, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Dodgers’ lead.
In the end, the Dodgers secured a 7-5 victory, thanks to a strong start from Drysdale and timely hitting. With this win, the Dodgers remained competitive in the pennant race, showcasing their resilience and depth. Ernie Banks' performance for the Cubs highlighted his power-hitting capability, though it was insufficient to change the game's outcome. The season continued with both teams striving for different goals, the Dodgers aiming for a postseason berth and the Cubs looking to build for the future.
The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum mourns the passing of Class of 1977...
The Baseball Hall of Fame Remembers Ernie Banks / The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum mourns the passing of Class of 1977 member Ernie Banks. January 31, 1931 - January 23, 2015.
During the 1971 season, the Chicago Cubs and the Los Angeles Dodgers had notable performances...
Chicago Cubs vs Los Angeles Dodgers - Scully - Radio Broadcast / During the 1971 season, the Chicago Cubs and the Los Angeles Dodgers had notable performances and competed fiercely for a spot in the playoffs. The Cubs showcased their offensive power and solid pitching, led by players like Ron Santo, Billy Williams, and Ernie Banks. They had a strong start to the season and remained in the playoff race throughout July. However, their pitching staff faced challenges at times, impacting their consistency and requiring improvement to maintain their competitive edge.
On the other hand, the Dodgers were renowned for their pitching dominance, with Sandy Koufax leading the way. Their strong bullpen and pitching rotation allowed them to shut down opponents effectively. Throughout July, the Dodgers continued to perform consistently, relying on their pitching staff to secure crucial victories and maintain their position as a formidable force in the National League.
In July, both teams were determined to secure a strong position in their divisions. The Dodgers' pitching staff stood out as their main strength, ensuring they remained a top contender. Conversely, the Cubs relied on their offensive prowess, but they encountered difficulties due to inconsistencies in their pitching performances. Despite the challenges faced by both teams, they remained in contention for a playoff berth, making the 1971 season an exciting and competitive one for fans and players alike.
The 1959 All-Star game was the first year the MLB held an All Star Game...
1959 MLB All-Star Game - Radio Broadcast / The 1959 All-Star game was the first year the MLB held an All Star Game Double Header. The first game of 1959 was held at Forbes Field in Pittsburgh. The second game would be played a month later in Los Angeles. The experiment of two All-Star Games continued for four seasons; the league returned to just one annual game in 1963. In this first game of 1959, the American League started the 39 year old veteran Early Wynn while the National League went with 22 year old Don Drysdale.
This 1957 regular season game at Ebbets field sees the Brooklyn Dodgers hosting the...
Chicago Cubs vs Brooklyn Dodgers - Radio Broadcast / This 1957 regular season game at Ebbets field sees the Brooklyn Dodgers hosting the Chicago Cubs. On the mound are two young pitchers, the Cubs rookie Dick Drott and the Dodger's Sandy Koufax. At this point, Koufax is in his 3rd season and this game is his his 21st career start.
The legendary Vin Scully calls the game In his 8th year in the broadcast booth and the Dodgers final season in Brooklyn.