Ryne Sandberg, Beloved Cubs Hall of Famer, Passes Away at 65

Ryne Sandberg, the iconic second baseman who dedicated his entire 15-season Major League Baseball (MLB) career to the Chicago Cubs, has died at the age of 65, as confirmed by the team on July 28, 2025. Sandberg was surrounded by his family at his home when he passed, following a battle with metastatic prostate cancer diagnosed earlier in 2024.

Sandberg's illustrious career was marked by numerous accolades, including ten All-Star selections and the National League Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in 1984. His impact on the Cubs franchise is profound, as detailed by Cubs executive chairman Tom Ricketts, who stated, "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." This sentiment reflects Sandberg's dedication to baseball and his role as a mentor to younger players.

In remembrance of Sandberg, the Cubs announced they would wear a special jersey patch for the remainder of the season. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred echoed Ricketts' sentiments, noting, "Ryne Sandberg was a legend of the Chicago Cubs franchise and a beloved figure throughout Major League Baseball."

Sandberg's career statistics are impressive; he finished with a .285 batting average, 282 home runs, 1,061 runs batted in (RBIs), and 344 stolen bases. His contributions to the Cubs were not limited to his playing days, as he continued to be involved with the franchise after retirement. He served as the manager of the Philadelphia Phillies from 2013 to 2015 and was frequently seen at Cubs spring training, providing guidance to young players.

The Cubs honored Sandberg with a statue outside Wrigley Field, unveiled on June 23, 2024, commemorating the 40th anniversary of the famed "Sandberg Game." In that memorable game against the St. Louis Cardinals, Sandberg hit two game-tying home runs in the ninth and tenth innings, contributing to an 11-inning victory.

Sandberg's legacy extends beyond the baseball diamond; he was known for his integrity, hustle, and competitive spirit. He is survived by his wife, Margaret, and their children, Justin, Lindsey, Steven, BR, and Adriane, along with 11 grandchildren. As the baseball community mourns his loss, Sandberg's contributions to the sport and his role as an ambassador for baseball will be remembered and cherished.

In light of Sandberg's passing, the Cubs and the MLB community are encouraged to support initiatives such as Stand Up To Cancer, a cause that Sandberg championed during his battle with cancer. This ongoing commitment highlights the importance of cancer research and support, reflecting the values Sandberg embodied throughout his life and career.