Ryne Sandberg, Cubs Hall of Fame Second Baseman, Passes Away After Cancer Battle
Ryne Sandberg, a Hall of Fame second baseman celebrated as one of baseball’s most versatile players during his time with the Chicago Cubs, has passed away at the age of 65. Sandberg’s family confirmed that he died at home on Monday.
In January 2024, Sandberg publicly shared his diagnosis of metastatic prostate cancer. He underwent chemotherapy and radiation treatments, declaring himself cancer-free in August 2024. However, on December 10, he revealed via Instagram that the cancer had returned and spread to other organs. Despite his condition, he remained hopeful, expressing his desire to “make the most of every day” with his loved ones.
Tributes from the Cubs Community
Tom Ricketts, chairman of the Cubs, remarked that Sandberg “will be remembered as one of the all-time greats in nearly 150 years of this historic franchise.” He highlighted Sandberg’s dedication to the game, integrity, and relentless competitive spirit as hallmarks of his illustrious career. philwin casino
Born and raised in Spokane, Washington, Sandberg was drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies out of high school in the 20th round of the 1978 amateur draft. He made his major league debut in 1981 but had a limited performance in 13 games, going 1 for 6. In January 1982, he was traded to the Cubs along with Larry Bowa in a deal for veteran infielder Ivan De Jesus, which would turn out to be one of the most lopsided trades in baseball history gilas vs thailand asian games 2023 schedule poker dealer.
Career Highlights and Achievements
During his 15-year career with the Cubs, Sandberg recorded a batting average of .285, with 282 home runs, 1,061 RBIs, and 344 steals. He made ten All-Star teams and won the Home Run Derby in 1990, as well as securing nine Gold Gloves.
“Ryne Sandberg was a legend of the Chicago Cubs franchise and a beloved figure throughout Major League Baseball,” stated MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred. “He was a five-tool player who excelled in every aspect of the game thanks to his power, speed, and exceptional work ethic.”
Despite Sandberg’s stellar performances, the Cubs only reached the postseason twice during his tenure. lakers vs gs score He earned the NL MVP title in 1984 after batting .314, hitting 19 home runs, and driving in 84 runs while also stealing 32 bases. The Cubs won the NL East that year, but were eliminated by the San Diego Padres after winning the first two games of the National League Championship Series at Wrigley Field. Sandberg’s 1984 season is often remembered for “The Sandberg Game,” where he hit two home runs and drove in seven runs in a thrilling 12-11 win over the St. Louis Cardinals.
In 2024, the Cubs honored Sandberg and that iconic game by unveiling a statue of the infielder outside Wrigley Field on the anniversary of the game.
Legacy and Retirement
Jed Hoyer, Cubs president of baseball operations, expressed that Sandberg was like a superhero to the city of Chicago, recalling the amazing talents of other local legends like Michael Jordan and Walter Payton during the same era. Sandberg led the Cubs back to the playoffs in 1989, batting .290 with 30 home runs, but unfortunately, they lost to San Francisco in the NLCS.
He set a career-high of 40 home runs in 1990 and recorded 100 RBIs in both 1990 and 1991 but never made it back to the postseason after that. Sandberg retired after the 1997 season, leaving behind a remarkable legacy.
Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2005, Sandberg received 76.2% of the vote by the Baseball Writers’ Association of America. conquest day 3 The Cubs also retired his No. 23 jersey that same year. “Ryne Sandberg had a relentless work ethic and an unshakable positive outlook,” said Hall of Fame chair Jane Forbes Clark, noting that he inspired many who knew him.
In addition to his playing career, Sandberg managed the Philadelphia Phillies from August 2013 to June 2015, finishing with a record of 119-159 after stepping into the role following Charlie Manuel’s firing.
What are your favorite memories of Ryne Sandberg’s impactful career in baseball?