The baseball world mourns the loss of Ryne Sandberg, a legendary second baseman and Hall of Famer, who passed away on Monday at the age of 65. Sandberg, recognized as one of the most complete players in the history of the sport, left an indelible mark on the [Chicago Cubs](/mlb/team/_/name/chc/chicago-cubs). According to sources close to him, Sandberg passed away at his home, surrounded by his family. In January 2024, Sandberg publicly announced his diagnosis of metastatic prostate cancer. After undergoing chemotherapy and radiation treatments, he announced in August of the same year that he was cancer-free. However, in December 2024, through a social media post, she revealed that the cancer had returned and spread to other organs. At that time, she expressed her determination to keep fighting, while enjoying each day with her family and friends.
Sandberg’s legacy transcended the playing field. His dedication, respect for the game, integrity, and competitive spirit were distinctive characteristics of his career. The Cubs announced that they will use a special patch on their uniform to commemorate Sandberg for the rest of the season. Ian Happ, Cubs left fielder, shared his feelings after the team’s loss on Monday, highlighting Sandberg’s impact on fans and players. Sandberg began his professional career after being selected by the [Philadelphia Phillies](/mlb/team/_/name/phi/philadelphia-phillies) in the 1978 draft. He debuted in the Major Leagues in 1981, and in 1982 he was transferred to the Cubs in a trade that became one of the most significant in baseball history. During his 15 years with the Cubs, Sandberg batted .285, hit 282 home runs, drove in 1,061 runs, and stole 344 bases. He was selected for the All-Star Game 10 times, won the Home Run Derby in 1990, and earned nine Gold Gloves. Ryne Sandberg was a Chicago Cubs franchise legend and a beloved figure throughout Major League Baseball. Sandberg was an exceptional player, but the Cubs only made two postseason appearances during his time on the team. In 1984, he was named the National League’s Most Valuable Player, with a batting average of .314, 19 home runs, 84 RBIs, and 32 stolen bases. The Cubs won the National League East Division, and Sandberg had an outstanding performance in the playoffs. Former Cubs manager Jim Frey highlighted Sandberg’s work ethic. The 1984 season included the famous “Sandberg Game”, where he hit two home runs and drove in seven runs in a victory over St. Louis. In 2024, the Cubs honored Sandberg and that game with a statue outside Wrigley Field. Greg Maddux, Hall of Fame pitcher, remembered him as a great teammate and mentor. Sandberg led the Cubs to the playoffs in 1989, batting .290 with 30 home runs. In the National League Championship Series, his average was .400, but the Cubs lost to San Francisco. In 1990, he established a personal record with 40 home runs and reached 100 RBIs in 1990 and 1991. He retired after the 1997 season, with the most home runs for a second baseman in Major League history. He was a superhero in this city. Sandberg was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2005, and the Cubs retired his number 23 that same year. Mark Grace, former Cubs first baseman, highlighted Sandberg’s excellence in both offense and defense. Sandberg also had a stint as a manager in the minor leagues and with the Phillies. In 2013, he took over as interim manager, but resigned in 2015. John Middleton, managing partner and CEO of the Phillies, described him as a man of class and dignity. Craig Counsell, Cubs manager, highlighted the honor of having Sandberg near the team during spring training this year. Ryne Sandberg’s departure leaves a void in the baseball world, but his legacy of excellence and dedication will endure forever.Sandberg will be remembered as one of the greatest of all time in this historic franchise.
Tom Ricketts, Cubs Chairman
