Ernie Banks was baseball

We lost one of the greatest ambassadors are game will ever know. Before there was Derek Jeter, Greg Maddux, Tony Gwynn, or Cal Ripken Jr., we had a golden era that included some of the greatest names in baseball history.  People always remember to list Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, Stan Musial, Roberto Clemente, Bob Gibson, Sandy Koufax and others, but sometimes lost in those lists is Ernie Banks.

Ernie Banks was more than just a Hall of Fame baseball player. He was more than just Mr. Cub. He was one of the best examples of what it means to be a baseball player. He loved the game and he loved anyone else who loved it too. In an era when Jackie Robinson and Larry Doby and others were trying to survive the segregation and ugliness, Banks' enthusiasm never wavered.

Willie Mays remembers Mr. Cub: http://t.co/CGazH0MPXr #LetsPlayTwo pic.twitter.com/lH1152QSzx
— MLB (@MLB) January 24, 2015

Statement from Ryne Sandberg on the passing of Ernie Banks: pic.twitter.com/6KNCHvl9Gn
— Phillies (@Phillies) January 24, 2015

Perception becomes reality and for Banks and others, the courage and bravery to somehow withstand that persecution must never be forgotten.

R.I.P #ErnieBanks I will forever remember our talks. Thank you for paving the way for us Black Ball Players.
— Barry L Bonds (@BarryBonds) January 24, 2015

President Barack Obama gave his thoughts on Banks as well today.

Statement by the President @BarackObama on Ernie Banks' passing. pic.twitter.com/cCE8km2FIS
— MLB (@MLB) January 24, 2015

The man that coined the phrase "Let's play two" will always be remembered by baseball fans and purists. However, I do think that Major League baseball should make sure that Banks' legacy remains a part of the game as much for his love as his play.

Let's Play Two Rule:
Double headers no longer exist in baseball unless there's a makeup game needed. Rain delays and games postponed become double headers later. Teams no longer have double headers scheduled.

Let's make a rule that creates a guaranteed double header in the summer time for each team. Cubs will always be at home for this game and there game should always be the 1st of the season and called the Ernie Banks Let's Play Two series.  It can be a short two game series with a rival team even.

Ernie Banks Man of the Year Award:
Much like Walter Payton was forever honored in the National Football League, Banks should be too. Nobody was better in baseball history at representing the league on and off the field.

rest in peace Mr. Banks. I took this at HOF ceremonies last summer. pic.twitter.com/FjgsrDMHcp
— Billy Crystal (@BillyCrystal) January 24, 2015