Current, former Cubs remember Hall of Famer Hank Aaron

Current and former Cubs remember Hank Aaron originally appeared on NBC Sports Chicago

The baseball world is mourning the loss of Hank Aaron, who died on Friday at the age of 86.

Aaron's MLB career with the Milwaukee/Atlanta Braves and Milwaukee Brewers spanned from 1954-76, during which he made 25 All-Star teams, won three Gold Glove Awards, one MVP and one World Series. He broke Babe Ruth's all-time home run record in 1974, retiring with 755 for his career.

Aaron's home run record stood for 31 years, and he's still MLB's all-time leader in RBIs (2,297). He was elected into the Hall of Fame in 1982, and in 1999 MLB created the Hank Aaron Award to honor the best offensive player in both the American and National League.

A civil rights activist who endured racism as he closed in on Ruth's record, Aaron's impact spanned far beyond the diamond.

The Cubs and their players took to social media to remember the legendary outfielder on Friday.

Cubs outfielder Jason Heyward, who grew up in Georgia and spent his first five seasons with the Braves, posted a tribute to Aaron on Instagram, writing, "Thank you for being a Hero and thank you for being a light."

@jheylove22

Former Cub Dexter Fowler, who grew up in Atlanta, remembered Aaron's legacy both on the diamond and "off the field and in the community."

@dexterfowler

First baseman Anthony Rizzo, who shares Aaron's jersey number, tweeted he's "proud every day to wear #44."

Catcher Willson Contreras tweeted Aaron's "legacy will always be alive," and Cubs Hall of Famer Fergie Jenkins tweeted a heartfelt message to one of his "heroes."

Shortstop Javy Báez tweeted his condolences.

Rest in peace to a true legend.

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