Ryne Sandberg, Chicago Cubs Legend and Hall of Famer, Dies at 65 After Cancer Battle
Major League Baseball Hall of Famer Ryne Sandberg has passed away at the age of 65 following a long battle with prostate cancer.
The Chicago Cubs confirmed his death on Monday, July 28, in an official statement shared across social media platforms.
“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,” said Cubs chairman Tom Ricketts. “His dedication, grit, hustle, and respect for the game defined him not just as a player, but as a person.”
Sandberg initially revealed his cancer diagnosis in January 2024. While he stated in August 2024 that treatment had been successful, he shared in December that the cancer had returned.
Drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies in the 20th round of the 1978 draft, Sandberg made his Major League debut in 1981. However, it was with the Chicago Cubs, where he played from 1982 to 1997, that he became a legend.
Ryne Sandberg’s Career Highlights:
10-time All-Star
1984 NL MVP
9 Gold Glove Awards
Home Run Derby Champion
Cubs No. 23 jersey retired
Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2005
Honored with a statue at Wrigley Field in 2024
The Cubs, who were on the road against the Milwaukee Brewers when news broke, announced they will wear a memorial jersey patch for the rest of the season in Sandberg’s honor.
Sandberg is survived by his wife Margaret, his children, and grandchildren.
