It is with Heavy Hearts that We Share the Passing of Ryne Sandberg, One of the Most Revered Figures in Chicago Cubs History

It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Ryne Sandberg’s passing. The Chicago Cubs legend and Baseball Hall of Famer died at age 65 after a courageous two‑year battle with metastatic prostate cancer.

🌟 Remembering Ryne Sandberg (1959–2025)

💼 His Battle with Cancer

Sandberg was first diagnosed in January 2024, then announced he was cancer‑free in August 2024. Tragically, by December, the disease had returned and spread to other organs, prompting renewed, intensive treatment. In July 2025 he shared a heartfelt update—describing his journey as “challenging,” yet affirming his commitment to fighting egend while making the most of time with loved ones

He passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, according to the Cubs organization  

⚾ A Career of Excellence

Legendary Achievements

• Played 16 major league seasons: 15 with the Chicago Cubs, and briefly with the Philadelphia Phillies .

• 1984 NL MVP, batting .314 with 19 home runs, 32 stolen bases, 114 runs, and 19 triples—leading the league in runs and triples

• Earned 9 consecutive Gold Gloves (1983–1991), 7 Silver Slugger awards, and was a 10‑time All-Star (1984–1993)

Iconic Moments

• “The Sandberg Game”: On June 23, 1984, he hit two game‑tying home runs in extra innings against the St. Louis Cardinals, a moment that cemented his national reputation and energized Cubs Nation

🧱 Legacy & Honors

• Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2005, earning 76.2% on his third ballot. The Cubs retired his No. 23 the same year.

• A statue honoring Sandberg was unveiled outside Wrigley Field in June 2024, commemorating both his career and the Sandberg Game

🏛️ Tributes & Reflections

• Tom Ricketts, Cubs Executive Chairman:

  “Ryne Sandberg will be remembered as one of the all‑time greats… his dedication, integrity, grit, hustle and competitive fire were hallmarks of his career.”

• MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred:

  “A beloved figure throughout Major League Baseball… a five‑tool player who excelled in every facet of the game.

• Jane Forbes Clark, Hall of Fame Chair:

  “Ryne Sandberg had a relentless work ethic and unshakable positive outlook… he inspired all those who knew him.”

• Jed Hoyer, Cubs President of Baseball Operations, called him “a superhero in this city” and underscored the atmosphere at Wrigley Field that he helped cultivate

📊 Career Highlights at a Glance

🌈 A Lasting Inspiration

Ryne Sandberg’s impact extended far beyond statistics. He embodied respect for the game, loyalty to his teammates and fans, and a philosophy rooted in humility. His 2005 Hall of Fame induction speech emphasized:

“You never, ever disrespect your opponent… the name on the front is a lot more important than the name on the back”

Sandberg also served Manhattan baseball through coaching and mentorship—managing the Phillies (2013–15), and later rejoining the Cubs as an ambassador beginning in 2016

🕊️ A Final Farewell

Ryne Sandberg’s family, including his wife Margaret, five children, and eleven grandchildren, survive him. The Cubs organization reaffirmed that “Margaret and their children and grandchildren will always be a part of the Cubs family,” and vowed: “Ryno will never be forgotten by the Cubs community and baseball fans around the world”

His legacy—a blend of athletic excellence, personal grace, and community devotion—will live on in the hearts of Cubs fans and baseball lovers everywhere.

✨ In Closing

Ryne Sandberg’s passing leaves a profound void in the baseball world. Yet his life and career offer a timeless example: of how a rare combination of talent, ethics, and humility can shape the culture of a franchise, inspire generations, and transcend the ballpark.

May he rest in peace—and may his story continue to inspire, both in Chicago and across the game he loved.