Ryne Sandberg, the Chicago Cubs’ second baseman and Hall of Famer, passed away on July 28, 2025, at the age of 65, after a courageous battle with prostate cancer. His remarkable journey through baseball left an indelible mark on the sport and the hearts of fans worldwide.
Ryne’s Rise: From Prospect to Phenom
Born on September 18, 1959, in Spokane, Washington, Sandberg’s path to greatness began when the Philadelphia Phillies drafted him in the 20th round of the 1978 MLB draft. After honing his skills in the minor leagues, he was traded to the Cubs in 1982, where he quickly established himself as a rising star. His breakout moment came in 1984, in a game against the St. Louis Cardinals that would forever be known as the ‘Sandberg Game.’ With the Cubs trailing late, Sandberg hit two clutch home runs to tie the game, ultimately leading his team to a thrilling 12-11 victory.
Sandberg’s Signature Moments: Heroics on the Diamond
Throughout his illustrious 16-year career, Sandberg etched his name in the annals of baseball history. A 10-time All-Star, he won nine consecutive Gold Glove Awards and seven Silver Slugger Awards, showcasing his defensive prowess and offensive firepower. In 1984, he was crowned the National League’s Most Valuable Player, hitting .314 with 114 runs scored and 19 triples. ‘Ryne Sandberg was a legend of the Chicago Cubs franchise and a beloved figure throughout Major League Baseball. He was a five-tool player who excelled in every facet of the game thanks to his power, speed and work ethic. Ryne earned 10 consecutive All-Star selections, nine straight Gold Gloves, seven Silver Sluggers and 1984 National League MVP honors,’ Major League Baseball Commissioner Robert D. Manfred Jr. issued a statement honoring Sandberg Monday night. “CBS News” Major League Baseball Commissioner Robert D. Manfred Jr. said in a statement honoring Sandberg.
A Five-Tool Talent: Sandberg’s Multifaceted Mastery
Sandberg’s greatness extended beyond mere statistics. He was a true five-tool player, excelling in every aspect of the game. His power was on full display in 1990 when he became the first second baseman since Rogers Hornsby in 1925 to lead the National League in home runs with 40. Sandberg’s speed and defensive prowess were equally impressive, as he set a major league record by playing 123 consecutive games at second base without an error – a mark that stood until 2007. His dedication to the game was unparalleled, earning him a then-record $28.4 million contract extension in 1992.
Beyond the Basepaths: Sandberg’s Enduring Impact
Sandberg’s impact extended far beyond his playing days. After retiring in 1997 with a .285 career batting average and 277 home runs – a record for second basemen at the time – he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2005. His induction speech resonated with fans, as he emphasized the importance of respecting the game and playing the right way. Sandberg later returned to baseball as a manager, leading the Phillies’ Triple-A affiliate to a championship in 2011 and serving as the Phillies’ interim and full-time manager from 2013 to 2015.
A Final Farewell to a Cubs Legend
In the wake of Sandberg’s passing, Cubs fans gathered at Wrigley Field to pay their respects and honor the memory of a true baseball icon. Despite his illness, Sandberg had attended Cubs Spring Training in February 2025, sharing his wisdom with young players and cherishing his time with the team he loved. He is survived by his wife Margaret, five children, and 11 grandchildren. Sandberg’s impact on the game of baseball and the lives of those he touched will never be forgotten.
