The baseball world is grieving the loss of Ryne Sandberg, the iconic Chicago Cubs second baseman and Hall of Famer, who died peacefully at home on July 28, 2025, surrounded by family. He was 65.
A Courageous Fight Against Cancer
Sandberg's battle with metastatic prostate cancer began in January 2024. After initial chemotherapy and radiation treatments led to a brief "cancer-free" declaration in August 2024, the disease returned aggressively by December, spreading to multiple organs. In his final months, Sandberg emphasized cherishing time with loved ones while continuing his fight.
From Spokane to Wrigley: An Unlikely Legend
Born in Spokane, Washington, Sandberg was drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies in 1978 (20th round) but played only 13 games for them. His career-defining shift came in January 1982, when the Cubs acquired him and Larry Bowa for infielder Ivan De Jesus—a trade later deemed one of baseball's most lopsided deals.
A Legacy of Excellence
Over 15 seasons with Chicago (1982–1997), Sandberg redefined second-base play:
- .285 career average, 282 HR, 1,061 RBI, 344 stolen bases
- 10× All-Star, 9× Gold Glove winner, 1984 NL MVP
- 1984 "Sandberg Game": Two game-tying HRs off Bruce Sutter in an 11-inning win over St. Louis—immortalized by a statue at Wrigley Field in 2024.
Defining Moments and Postseason Heartbreak
- 1984 MVP Season: Led MLB with 19 triples and 114 runs while batting.314, carrying the Cubs to their first postseason since 1945.
- 1990 Power Surge: Became just the third primary second baseman ever to hit 40 HRs in a season.
Despite his brilliance, the Cubs reached only two playoffs during his tenure (1984, 1989), though Sandberg hit .368 and .400 in those series.
Tributes: A "Superhero" Remembered
- Tom Ricketts (Cubs Chairman): "His integrity, grit, and competitive fire defined nearly 150 years of this franchise".
- Rob Manfred (MLB Commissioner): "A five-tool legend who excelled in every facet".
- Jed Hoyer (Cubs President): "Chicago's superhero alongside Jordan and Payton".
Sandberg's No. 23 was retired in 2005, the same year he entered the Baseball Hall of Fame with 76.2% of the vote.
Beyond the Diamond
Sandberg managed the Philadelphia Phillies (2013–2015) and served as a Cubs instructor and broadcaster. His relentless work ethic extended to philanthropy; he co-founded a children's charity with his wife, Margaret.
The Final Inning
Sandberg's death leaves a void across baseball. As Hall of Fame chair Jane Forbes Clark noted, his "unshakable positivity inspired all who knew him" 6. The Cubs will honor him with a pregame tribute at their next home game, encouraging fans to wear his iconic No. 23.
Funeral arrangements are private, but public memorials at Wrigley Field are planned for August. Donations to prostate cancer research are requested in lieu of flowers.