Baseball has lost one of its greatest gentlemen and fiercest competitors. Hall of Famer Ryne Sandberg, the heart and hustle of the Chicago Cubs for over a decade, passed away Monday at age 65, surrounded by family at his home.
Sandberg, who courageously fought metastatic prostate cancer, leaves behind a legacy etched into baseball history and the soul of Chicago. A 10-time All-Star, nine-time Gold Glove winner, and 1984 NL MVP, “Ryno” redefined the second base position with power, speed, and quiet leadership.
Originally drafted by the Phillies, Sandberg’s 1982 trade to Chicago turned into one of baseball’s most lopsided deals—and one of the Cubs’ greatest blessings. From the iconic “Sandberg Game” in 1984 to his record-setting 40-homer season in 1990, Sandberg played with relentless grit and unwavering class.
The Cubs, honoring his impact, will wear a commemorative patch for the remainder of the season. Wrigley Field, already home to his statue and retired No. 23, stands as a tribute to a player who became a symbol of perseverance, dignity, and excellence.
Though postseason success eluded him, Ryne Sandberg gave Cubs fans hope, inspiration, and unforgettable moments. He wasn’t just a Hall of Famer—he was a Chicago hero.
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