In this episode, we talk with Doug Wilson, author of Let's Play Two: The Legend of Mr. Cub, the Life of Ernie Banks (Rowman & Littlefield, 2019), to explore the life and legacy of one of baseball’s most beloved figures. Doug shares insights into his research process, the hidden layers of Ernie Banks’ personality, and what makes this Hall of Famer’s story still resonate today.
From growing up in segregated Dallas, Texas, to becoming a two-time MVP and a beacon of positivity on and off the field, Ernie Banks’ journey is not only a baseball story—it's a human story. Doug discusses the complexities behind the cheerful "Let’s play two!" slogan and the cultural and personal weight Banks carried with grace.
In Part Two of this episode, we dive into two very different but equally fascinating conversations. First, in a decision that warms Rex's heart, the league has finally removed several long-deceased (and one not so long deceased) players from its permanently ineligible list. Second, Craig shares his experience seeing Deafheaven, one of his favorite artists, at a recent Austin concert.
You can support Hooks & Runs by purchasing books, including books featured in this episode (if any were), through our store at Bookshop.org. Here's the link.
https://bookshop.org/shop/hooksandruns
Hooks & Runs - https://hooksandruns.buzzsprout.com/
Email: hooksandruns@protonmail.com
Craig on Bluesky (@craigest.bsky.social)
Rex (Krazy Karl's Music Emporium) on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/people/Krazy-Karlz-Music-Emporium/100063801500293/
Hosts Emeriti:
Andrew Eckhoff on Tik Tok
Eric on Facebook
Music: "Warrior of Light" by ikolics (via Premium Beat)
This podcast and this episode are copyright Craig Estlinbaum, 2025.
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