Major League Baseball Hall of Famer Ryne Sandberg has died at the age of 65 after a long battle with prostate cancer.
The Chicago Cubs announced his passing on Monday, July 28, via a statement on social media. Sandberg, a legendary second baseman and one of the most iconic players in Cubs history, revealed his cancer diagnosis in January 2024.
“Ryne Sandberg was a hero to a generation of Chicago Cubs fans and will be remembered as one of the all-time greats in nearly 150 years of this historic franchise,” said Cubs chairman Tom Ricketts. “His dedication, integrity, grit, hustle, and competitive spirit defined his career. He was immensely proud of his teammates and his role as a global ambassador for baseball, but above all, he cherished Margaret, his children, and his roles as husband, father, and grandfather.”
Sandberg was drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies in the 20th round of the 1978 draft and made his MLB debut in 1981. However, it was during his 15 seasons with the Cubs from 1982 to 1997 that he truly made his mark.
Over his Chicago career, Sandberg earned 10 All-Star selections, won the 1984 National League Most Valuable Player award, received nine Gold Glove Awards, and claimed a Home Run Derby title. His No. 23 jersey was retired by the Cubs, and in 2005, he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. In 2024, the Cubs honored him further with a statue at Wrigley Field.
Although Sandberg announced in August 2024 that his cancer had been cured, he disclosed in December that it had returned.
When news of his passing broke during a road game against the Milwaukee Brewers, the Cubs announced they would wear a commemorative jersey patch for the remainder of the season in his memory.
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