Ryne Sandberg, one of the greatest players in Chicago Cubs history, has died at the age of 65. The Cubs confirmed his passing on Tuesday morning. Sandberg had been battling prostate cancer, which he publicly announced in early 2024.
Sandberg was a Hall of Fame second baseman and a fan favorite for more than a decade. Known for his quiet personality and strong work ethic, he became a symbol of Cubs baseball in the 1980s and early 1990s.
A Career to Remember
Sandberg joined the Cubs in 1982 after a trade from the Philadelphia Phillies. In 1984, he had a breakout season, hitting .314 with 19 home runs and 84 RBIs. That year, he won the National League MVP award and helped lead the Cubs to their first playoff appearance since 1945.
He wasn’t just a strong hitter—he was also one of the best defensive second basemen in MLB history. Sandberg won nine Gold Glove Awards in a row and made 10 All-Star appearances. He finished his career with 282 home runs and over 2,300 hits.
He was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2005, calling it the greatest honor of his life.
A Leader On and Off the Field
Teammates and fans respected Sandberg for his leadership. He led by example and rarely sought the spotlight.
“Ryno was the kind of player every team hopes for,” said former teammate Mark Grace. “He showed up every day and gave everything he had.”
After retiring as a player, Sandberg worked as a minor league manager and later managed the Philadelphia Phillies from 2013 to 2015.
Remembering Ryno
Cubs fans began gathering outside Wrigley Field soon after the news broke. Many left flowers, handwritten notes, and Sandberg jerseys as a tribute.
The Cubs released a statement saying, “We are heartbroken to learn of Ryne Sandberg’s passing. He was more than a Hall of Famer—he was a symbol of Cubs baseball and a true gentleman of the game.”
Sandberg is survived by his wife Margaret, his children, and grandchildren.
A Lasting Legacy
Ryne Sandberg’s impact on baseball, especially in Chicago, will never be forgotten. He inspired generations of fans with his talent, humility, and love for the game.
In his Hall of Fame speech, Sandberg said:
“I played the game the right way. I respected the game, my teammates, and the fans.”
That’s how fans will always remember him.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How did Ryne Sandberg die?
Ryne Sandberg passed away after a long battle with prostate cancer. He publicly announced his diagnosis in January 2024 and had been undergoing treatment since then.
Q2: How old was Ryne Sandberg at the time of his death?
Sandberg was 65 years old when he died on July 29, 2025.
Q3: What teams did Ryne Sandberg play for in his career?
Sandberg started with the Philadelphia Phillies but is best known for his long career with the Chicago Cubs, where he became a Hall of Famer.
Q4: When was Ryne Sandberg inducted into the Hall of Fame?
He was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2005.
Q5: What awards did Ryne Sandberg win during his career?
Sandberg won 9 Gold Glove Awards, made 10 All-Star appearances, and was named the National League MVP in 1984.
Q6: Did Ryne Sandberg have a career in baseball after retiring as a player?
Yes, he worked as a minor league manager and later became the manager of the Philadelphia Phillies from 2013 to 2015.
