Ryne Sandberg’s career was a masterclass in consistency, defense, and clutch hitting. Over 16 MLB seasons — nearly all with the Chicago Cubs — “Ryno” became one of the most decorated second basemen in baseball history.
He earned 10 All-Star selections, 9 Gold Gloves, and 7 Silver Sluggers, while winning the 1984 National League MVP. At retirement, his 282 career home runs were the most ever for a second baseman. He hit .285 for his career, totaled 2,386 hits, and swiped 344 bases.
Sandberg’s defining moment came during the legendary Sandberg Game on June 23, 1984, when he stunned the baseball world with two late-inning home runs off Bruce Sutter, leading the Cubs to an unforgettable extra-innings victory.
After hanging up his cleats, Sandberg managed in the minors and majors, served as a Cubs ambassador, and remained a beloved figure at Wrigley Field. In 2024, the Cubs unveiled a statue in his honor at Gallagher Way.
Sandberg passed away on July 28, 2025, at age 65 after a brave fight with metastatic prostate cancer. The Cubs will host a public memorial on August 22 at Gallagher Way, inviting fans to bring nonperishable food instead of flowers.
Ryne Sandberg will be remembered as more than a ballplayer — he was the embodiment of professionalism, humility, and quiet excellence. His impact will live forever in the game he loved.