Ernie Banks, known to many as "Mr. Cub" has died at the age of 83.

According to USA Today, the legendary baseball player passed on Friday. The Cubs released a statement about the widely adorned player, but didn't release the cause of his death. Banks broke into the world of baseball on Sept. 17, 1953, six years after Jackie Robinson made history as the first African American to play in the MLB. Banks was the first African American to play for the Cubs. The former shortstop was a first ballot Hall of Famer, 11-time All-Star and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013 by President Barack Obama.

The president sent his condolences to Banks' family and shared some of fondest memories about the player.

"Michelle and I send our condolences to the family of Ernie Banks, and to every Chicagoan and baseball fan who loved him," he said. "Ernie came up through the Negro Leagues, making $7 a day. He became the first African-American to play for the Chicago Cubs, and the first number the team retired."

"Along the way, he became known as much for his 512 home runs and back-to-back National League MVPs as for his cheer, his optimism, and his love of the game. As a Hall-of-Famer, Ernie was an incredible ambassador for baseball, and for the city of Chicago. He was beloved by baseball fans everywhere, including Michelle, who, when she was a girl, used to sit with her dad and watch him play on TV."

"Somewhere, the sun is shining, the air is fresh, his team's behind him, and Mr. Class – 'Mr. Cub' – is ready to play two."

Banks retired from the league in 1971 at the age of 40. His upbeat personality and charming demeanor landed him the title of the greatest player in Cubs' franchise history. Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel released a statement about Banks.

"Ernie Banks was more than a baseball player," he said. He was one of Chicago's greatest ambassadors. He loved this city as much as he loved -- and lived for -- the game of baseball. This year, during every Cubs game, you can bet that No. 14 will be watching over his team. And if we're lucky, it'll be a beautiful day for not just one ballgame, but two."

Banks would have been 84-years-old on Jan. 31.

Take a look at some of the many who have honored Banks on Twitter above.

Source: USA Today | Photo Credit: Wikipedia, Splash News