(Banks, years before the phrase, “let’s play two” would’ve been taken in any other context).

The Tribune’s Paul Sullivan reports the Cubs (along with the Blackhawks) will be the first major sports franchises to feature floats in Chicago’s annual Gay Pride Parade. Presumably, if Mike Ditka’s Chicago Rush were still in business, they’d be front and center in the celebration.

Cubs legend Ernie Banks (above) will ride on the Cubs float along with others team employees in the annual parade, which will be held Sunday on the North Side.

“Participating in the parade is part of being good neighbors and reflects the community efforts of the entire Ricketts family and the Cubs organization,” said Senior Vice-President of Community Affairs Mike Lufrano. “The Cubs have supported the parade for many years. While this is the team’s first float, it is an extension of the strong, existing support and connections the Cubs have always had with the community.”