Ryne Sandberg Dies at 65: Chicago Cubs Legend and Hall of Famer

Ryne Sandberg Passes Away at 65: Chicago Cubs Legend and Hall of Famer

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Ryne Sandberg, a Chicago Cubs icon and one of the greatest players in Major League Baseball history, has passed away at age 65 after a battle with metastatic prostate cancer. He leaves behind a legacy as a quiet superstar who redefined the second base position with power, speed, and defensive excellence.

Legacy with the Chicago Cubs

Sandberg played 16 seasons in the MLB, most of them with the Chicago Cubs. He was selected to 10 All-Star Games, won 9 Gold Glove Awards, 7 Silver Sluggers, and earned National League MVP honors in 1984. Upon retirement, he held the MLB record for most home runs by a second baseman (277).

Tom Ricketts, Cubs Executive Chairman, described Sandberg as a hero to an entire generation of Cubs fans. His integrity, determination, and dedication left a lasting mark on the team’s history.

The Iconic 1984 Game

On June 23, 1984, Sandberg delivered a legendary performance against the St. Louis Cardinals. He recorded five hits, seven RBIs, and two game-tying home runs off Hall of Fame closer Bruce Sutter. Consequently, that game elevated Sandberg to national stardom and played a key role in his MVP campaign.

By the end of the 1984 season, he had a .314 batting average, 19 home runs, 84 RBIs, 32 stolen bases, and 114 runs scored. His outstanding year helped lead the Cubs to their first division title since 1945.

Career and Managerial Path

Born on September 18, 1959, in Spokane, Washington, Sandberg was a three-sport athlete in high school. The Phillies selected him in the 20th round of the 1978 MLB Draft. Then, in 1982, he was traded to the Cubs and quickly became a cornerstone of the team.

He started as a third baseman but transitioned to second base during his first season. In 1983, he earned his first Gold Glove. He helped the Cubs reach the playoffs in both 1984 and 1989. Over 10 postseason games, he batted .385 and made significant contributions.

Sandberg retired in 1997. Soon after, the Cubs retired his number 23 jersey. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2005. Later, he pursued a managerial career and served as manager of the Philadelphia Phillies from 2013 to 2015.

Health Battle and Late Honors

In late 2023, Sandberg revealed his diagnosis with metastatic prostate cancer. Despite his health challenges, he remained active in Cubs events and with the baseball community. In 2024, the Cubs unveiled a statue of Sandberg at Wrigley Field. Notably, it depicted him in a defensive stance — a pose symbolizing his pride in fielding.

During the statue ceremony, Sandberg shared: “Today, I feel the love and appreciation. It was always there, but I was too focused on extra training to notice.”

Style of Play and Lasting Legacy

Sandberg set an MLB record with 123 consecutive errorless games at second base. He also held the highest career fielding percentage at his position (.989). In total, he collected 2,385 hits, 344 stolen bases, and 282 home runs.

MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred called Sandberg an outstanding ambassador for baseball. As a result, MLB will continue to support Stand Up To Cancer in his honor.

Ryne Sandberg’s passing is a great loss for the sports world and Cubs fans everywhere. However, his spirit, work ethic, and character will continue to inspire future generations and remain a vital part of baseball history.