The Top 10 Chicago Cubs of All Time

The Chicago Cubs, one of Major League Baseball’s most storied franchises, have a history dating back to 1876. With an incredible legacy, the Cubs have been home to some of the greatest players in baseball history. Here’s a look at the top 10 players who have donned the blue pinstripes and made an everlasting impact on the franchise.

10. Billy Williams (1959–1974)

Billy Williams, affectionately known as “Sweet Swingin’ Billy,” was one of the most consistent hitters of his era. He played 16 seasons with the Cubs, earning six All-Star selections and the National League Rookie of the Year award in 1961. Williams finished his career with 426 home runs and a .290 batting average, earning him a well-deserved spot in the Hall of Fame in 1987.

Billy Williams Chicago Cub Hall of Fame Biography

9. Ferguson Jenkins (1966–1973, 1982–1983)

Ferguson Jenkins was the Cubs’ ace for much of the late 1960s and early 1970s. The Canadian right-hander became the first pitcher in MLB history to record six consecutive 20-win seasons. He won the NL Cy Young Award in 1971 and finished his Cubs career with 167 wins and a 3.20 ERA. Jenkins was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1991.

Ferguson Jenkins | Canada’s Black Ace Is A Bro U Need To Know

8. Mordecai “Three Finger” Brown (1904–1912, 1916)

Mordecai Brown was a dominant pitcher for the Cubs during their early years, helping lead the team to World Series championships in 1907 and 1908. His unique grip, caused by a childhood farming accident, gave him a devastating curveball. Brown finished his career with a 239-130 record and a 2.06 ERA, earning Hall of Fame induction in 1949.

The Legendary Journey of Mordecai ‘Three Finger’ Brown (1876-1948)

7. Ron Santo (1960–1973)

Ron Santo was one of the best third basemen in baseball history and a beloved Cubs icon. A nine-time All-Star and five-time Gold Glove winner, Santo hit 342 home runs and had an OPS of .826. His contributions to the Cubs extended beyond his playing days as he became a legendary broadcaster for the team. Santo was posthumously inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2012.

Ron Santo’s Dream Debut

6. Hack Wilson (1926–1931)

Hack Wilson remains one of the most feared sluggers in MLB history. In 1930, he set the single-season RBI record with 191, a mark that still stands today. The Hall of Famer finished his Cubs career with a .322 batting average and 244 home runs, cementing his place among the franchise’s all-time greats.

Hack Wilson: The Tale of a Power Hitter (1900-1948)

5. Greg Maddux (1986–1992, 2004–2006)

Greg Maddux began and ended his legendary career with the Cubs. During his first stint, he won the first of his four consecutive Cy Young Awards in 1992. Though he spent much of his prime with the Braves, Maddux returned to the Cubs later in his career and retired with 355 wins and a 3.16 ERA. He remains one of the greatest pitchers in baseball history.

Greg Maddux’s Dominant Outing vs. the Dodgers

4. Sammy Sosa (1992–2004)

Sammy Sosa electrified Cubs fans with his immense power and infectious energy. His 1998 home run race with Mark McGwire captivated the baseball world, and he finished that season with 66 homers and an NL MVP award. Sosa hit 545 home runs in a Cubs uniform, including three 60-homer seasons, making him one of the most exciting players in franchise history.

Sammy Sosa Ultimate Career Highlights (HD)

3. Ryne Sandberg (1982–1997)

Ryne Sandberg revolutionized the second base position with his combination of power, speed, and defense. An NL MVP in 1984, Sandberg was a 10-time All-Star and nine-time Gold Glove winner. His 282 home runs and .989 fielding percentage set the standard for second basemen, making him one of the greatest infielders of all time.

Ryne Sandberg Home Runs

2. Cap Anson (1876–1897)

Cap Anson was one of baseball’s first superstars and played a pivotal role in establishing the Cubs as a powerhouse in the early days of professional baseball. He spent 22 seasons with the team (then known as the White Stockings and Colts), amassing over 3,000 hits and leading the Cubs to six National League pennants. Anson’s influence on the game was profound, and he was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1939.

Did you know, the Cubs franchise leader for career WAR was Cap Anson? #chicagocubs

1. Ernie Banks (1953–1971)

“Mr. Cub” Ernie Banks was the heart and soul of the franchise for nearly two decades. The two-time NL MVP (1958, 1959) was the first shortstop in history to hit 40 home runs in a season. Banks finished his career with 512 home runs and over 1,600 RBIs. His love for the game and his famous phrase, “Let’s play two!” made him a legend in Chicago. Banks is considered one of the greatest Shortstops of All Time.

Ernie Banks Career Highlights

Conclusion

The Chicago Cubs have had no shortage of legendary players throughout their long and rich history. From power hitters to dominant pitchers and defensive wizards, these ten players have left an indelible mark on the franchise and its devoted fan base. Their contributions helped shape the Cubs into one of the most iconic teams in baseball, ensuring their legacies live on for generations to come.