Ken Hubbs, second baseman (Chicago Cubs), dies in plane crash at age 22.

On February 15, 1964, the baseball community was struck with sadness as it learned about the tragic plane crash that claimed the life of Ken Hubbs, the talented second baseman for the Chicago Cubs. At just 22 years old, Hubbs had already made a significant impact in the sport, leaving fans and teammates mourning the loss of a promising young star.

Ken Hubbs was born on December 23, 1941, in Riverside, California. From a young age, Hubbs showed a natural ability and passion for baseball, leading him to excel in high school and catch the attention of professional scouts. In 1961, at the age of 19, he was drafted by the Chicago Cubs and quickly made his way through the minor leagues, showcasing his incredible talent.

Hubbs made his major league debut on September 10, 1961, and wasted no time making a name for himself. In his rookie season, he displayed exceptional defensive skills at second base and quickly became a fan favorite with his stellar play. Hubbs also showed promise at the plate, hitting .260 with four home runs and earning the National League Rookie of the Year award.

The following year, in 1962, Hubbs continued to impress, establishing himself as a key player for the Cubs. He showed significant improvement in his batting average, hitting .260 with eight home runs and 64 runs batted in (RBIs). His exceptional defense remained a highlight of his game, as he led all National League second basemen in assists and double plays turned.

As Hubbs entered the 1963 season, expectations were high for the young second baseman. Despite facing tough opposition, Hubbs maintained his solid performance both defensively and offensively. He had a batting average of .235 with six home runs and 49 RBIs, while also earning his first Gold Glove Award for his outstanding fielding abilities.

However, on that fateful day in 1964, tragedy struck. Hubbs was traveling in a small plane with his friend Dennis Doyle when the aircraft crashed into a frozen lake near Provo, Utah. Both Hubbs and Doyle lost their lives in the accident, leaving behind a devastated baseball community and a promising career cut short.

Hubbs’ untimely death shocked the entire sports world, as he had left a lasting impression on and off the field. Known for his exceptional work ethic and humble personality, he was admired by teammates, opponents, and fans alike. The impact of his loss was felt deeply within the Chicago Cubs organization, and his memory continues to be honored to this day.

In recognition of his extraordinary career and contributions to the game of baseball, Ken Hubbs was posthumously inducted into the Cubs Hall of Fame in 1965. Additionally, the Ken Hubbs Award was established in his honor, presented annually to the most outstanding high school athlete in the state of California.

Although Ken Hubbs’ life was tragically cut short, his legacy lives on. His remarkable skills as a second baseman and his genuine love for the game will never be forgotten. The baseball community continues to honor his memory, keeping his spirit alive while cherishing the moments he had on the field during his all-too-brief time as a Chicago Cub.