Ernie Banks dies at age 83

The baseball world is mourning the loss of a truly wonderful human being.

Cubs legend and Hall of Famer Ernie Banks was pronounced dead at Northwestern Hospital in Chicago on Friday, as originally reported by CBS Chicago.

His death was later confirmed by the team. "Mr. Cub" was 83 years old.

The announcement was made by Chicago lawyer Mark Bogen, who claims he was authorized by Banks' widow, Liz, to alert the media of Banks' passing.

Related: President Obama, baseball world react to Ernie Banks' death

Cubs owner Tom Ricketts issued the following heartfelt statement on behalf of the organization:

He was one of the greatest players of all time. He was a pioneer in the major leagues. And more importantly, he was the warmest and most sincere person I've ever known. Approachable, ever optimistic and kind hearted, Ernie Banks is and always will be Mr. Cub. My family and I grieve the loss of such a great and good-hearted man, but we look forward to celebrating Ernie's life in the days ahead.

Banks, who hit 512 home runs and drove in 1,636 runs, played his entire 19-year career with the Cubs from 1953-1971, and was enshrined in Cooperstown as a first-ballot Hall of Famer in 1977. Banks began his playing days with the Kansas City Monarchs of the Negro Leagues in 1950.

Related: Reading List: Remembering 'Mr. Cub' Ernie Banks

Let's take a moment to reflect on one of Banks' biggest baseball accomplishments, his 500th career homer:

The first baseman and shortstop was named a two-time National League MVP (1958-59) and 11-time All-Star during his prestigious career. He was also the first African-American player to don a Cubs jersey and have his number (14) retired by the club.

Nicknamed "Mr. Sunshine" because of his lust for life and baseball, Banks received a Presidential Medal of Freedom in recognition of his goodwill. 

Current players also took to Twitter to express their condolences: