Ryne Sandberg, one of Major League Baseball’s greatest second basemen and a Hall of Famer, has tragically passed away at the age of 65. He had been battling prostate cancer for over a year.
The Chicago Cubs, Sandberg’s most iconic team, confirmed the news on social media, stating, “With great sadness, we share that Ryne Sandberg has passed away today.” Sandberg, affectionately known as “Ryno”, spent the majority of his illustrious career with the Cubs, becoming one of the most beloved and respected figures in the franchise’s history.
Hall of Fame Career
Sandberg was a 10-time All-Star, a 9-time Gold Glove winner, and a 7-time Silver Slugger award recipient, earning recognition for his all-around excellence. His legacy as one of the greatest second basemen in the history of baseball was cemented in 2005 when he was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
During his career, Sandberg posted a .285 batting average with 282 home runs, 1,061 RBIs, and 344 stolen bases in 2,164 games. He was known for his strong defensive play, his ability to hit for power, and his versatility on the field. In 1984, he was named the National League MVP, a season in which he hit .314, with 19 homers, 84 RBIs, and an MLB-leading 19 triples.
Manager and Ambassador for the Game
Commissioner Rob Manfred described Sandberg as a “legend of the Chicago Cubs franchise” and praised his five-tool ability, work ethic, and lasting impact on the game. Sandberg remained active in baseball long after his playing days. He served as an ambassador for the Cubs and as a manager for the Philadelphia Phillies, as well as in the Minor Leagues. He continued to inspire others through his dedication to the game, especially during his battle with cancer.
Manfred expressed the MLB’s ongoing support for Stand Up To Cancer in Sandberg’s memory.
Legacy and Remembered by His Teammates
Sandberg’s former Cubs teammates were deeply affected by his passing. Mark Grace, a longtime Cubs first baseman, paid tribute to Sandberg’s unmatched combination of offense and defense. Grace said, “When you examine the offense and defense, you’ll find some years where he was the best player you’ve ever seen in your life.”
Craig Counsell, current Cubs manager, reflected on the emotional loss, recalling how Sandberg had spent time with the team during spring training, despite his ongoing fight with cancer. Counsell said, “We were lucky as a group this year to have Ryno in spring training… I know it meant a lot to everybody in there. We’re grateful that he was willing to spend his time with us.”
Post-Playing Career and Influence
Despite limited playoff appearances during his career (just two NL Championship Series in 1984 and 1989), Sandberg’s performance in the postseason was memorable. He batted .385 in 10 postseason games, hitting 1 home run, 6 RBIs, and contributing 3 steals. A statue of Sandberg was unveiled outside Wrigley Field last year, cementing his place as one of the Cubs’ all-time greats.
After retiring from playing, Sandberg took on a managerial role with the Philadelphia Phillies from 2013 to 2015, where he posted a 119-159 record.
Tributes and Support
Many in the baseball world are mourning the loss of one of the game’s legends. Jane Forbes Clark, chairman of the National Baseball Hall of Fame, praised Sandberg’s “relentless work ethic” and his positive outlook on life. She recalled his heartfelt 2005 Hall of Fame speech, in which he expressed deep respect for the game and his teammates.
The Cubs also paid tribute to Sandberg’s legacy with a tweet honoring his “incredible contributions” to the game and the team. Fans, players, and colleagues alike are reflecting on the lasting impact of a player who gave everything to the sport he loved.
Rest in peace, Ryne Sandberg.