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| 1987 | Longtime-friend Jim Frey hires Don Zimmer, former Padres, Red Sox, and Rangers skipper, to manage the Cubs. In his last managerial stint, Popeye compiled a 265-258 (.507) record during his three-year tenure in Chicago. |
| 2006 | The Cubs and Nationals' free agent Alfonso Soriano (.277, 46, 95) agree to an eight-year deal worth $136 million, making the outfielder the highest-paid player in franchise history. The addition of the 30-year-old five-time All-Star, who became the fourth member of the 40-homer, 40-steal club last season, gives Chicago a potentially potent offense that includes Aramis Ramirez and Derrek Lee in the friendly confines of Wrigley Field. |
| 2013 |
"That's Mr. Cub — the man who came up through the Negro Leagues, making $7 a day, and became the first black player to suit up for the Cubs and one of the greatest hitters of all time. In the process, Ernie became known as much for his 512 home runs as for his cheer and his optimism, and his eternal faith that someday the Cubs would go all the way." - BARACK OBAMA, U.S. President, reflecting on Ernie Banks' achievements on and off the field. Barack Obama awards Ernie Banks the Presidential Medal of Freedom, an honor presented to individuals who have made meritorious contributions to the nation. The 82-year-old Cubs legend is one of 16 Americans recognized, including former President Bill Clinton, global media star Oprah Winfrey, one-time NASA astronaut Sally Ride, feminist Gloria Steinem, and Dean Smith, North Carolina's basketball coach. |