Ryne Sandberg, Hall of Fame second baseman and beloved Chicago Cubs legend, passed away at the age of 65 after battling metastatic prostate cancer. The cancer was initially diagnosed in early 2024, briefly went into remission, but returned later in the year and spread to other organs. Sandberg died peacefully at home surrounded by family.
Despite his illness, Sandberg made a memorable appearance at Wrigley Field earlier this year, throwing out the ceremonial first pitch on Opening Day. To honor his legacy, the Cubs will wear a commemorative jersey patch for the remainder of the season.
Cubs chairman Tom Ricketts paid tribute to Sandberg, calling him a hero to a generation of fans and one of the franchise’s all-time greats. Ricketts praised Sandberg’s integrity, grit, hustle, and competitive fire, noting that he was proudest of his family and role as a husband, father, and grandfather.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred described Sandberg as a five-tool player who excelled in all aspects of the game, crediting his success to power, speed, and a strong work ethic.
Born in Spokane, Washington, Sandberg was drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies in the 20th round of the 1978 MLB Draft. He made his major league debut in 1981 and was traded to the Cubs in 1982. That trade became one of the most lopsided in baseball history.
Over his 16-year career — 15 of which were spent with the Cubs — Sandberg compiled a .285 batting average with 2,386 hits, 282 home runs, 1,061 RBIs, and 344 stolen bases. He was a 10-time All-Star, won nine consecutive Gold Glove Awards, and earned seven Silver Slugger Awards. In 1984, he was named the National League Most Valuable Player after leading the league in runs, triples, and WAR, and helping the Cubs to their first postseason appearance in 39 years.
One of the most iconic moments of his career came on June 23, 1984, in what became known as “The Sandberg Game.” Sandberg hit two game-tying home runs off Hall of Famer Bruce Sutter in a dramatic 12–11 extra-innings win over the Cardinals, cementing his status as a national star.
In 2024, on the 40th anniversary of that game, the Cubs unveiled a statue of Sandberg outside Wrigley Field, honoring his lasting impact on the franchise and its fans.
After retiring as a player in 1997, Sandberg remained active in baseball. He managed the Philadelphia Phillies from 2013 to 2015 and later returned to the Cubs as a team ambassador. He was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2005, and the Cubs retired his No. 23 jersey that same year.
Ryne Sandberg will be remembered not only for his achievements on the field, but also for the grace, humility, and leadership he brought to the game.
