Hall of Famer Ryne Sandberg, Chicago Cubs Legend, Dies at 65 After Cancer Battle

The Chicago Cubs announced Monday the passing of Ryne Sandberg, their longtime star and Baseball Hall of Famer, at age 65. Sandberg succumbed to complications from cancer, a disease he fought courageously after two diagnoses in 2024.

Sandberg first revealed in January 2024 that he had metastatic prostate cancer. After initially overcoming the illness and declaring himself cancer-free eight months later, he shared in December that the cancer had spread to other organs, requiring more intensive treatment.

A Cubs Icon and Baseball Great
Sandberg spent nearly his entire 16-year MLB career with the Cubs, playing just 13 games for the Philadelphia Phillies in 1981 before becoming a franchise cornerstone. A 10-time All-Star and the 1984 NL MVP, he led the league in triples and runs scored that year while beginning a decade-long streak of All-Star appearances.

Known for his five-tool excellence, Sandberg won nine Gold Gloves, seven Silver Slugger awards, and even claimed the 1990 NL home run title (40 HR) along with that year’s Home Run Derby at Wrigley Field. His durability was legendary—he played 150+ games in 12 of 15 Cubs seasons. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2005, Sandberg saw his No. 23 retired by the Cubs that same year. In 2023, the team honored him with a statue outside Wrigley Field.

Tributes from Baseball’s Highest Levels
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred praised Sandberg as "a legend of the Chicago Cubs franchise and a beloved figure throughout Major League Baseball," highlighting his "power, speed, and work ethic." He added, "We will continue to support the important work of Stand Up To Cancer in Ryne’s memory."

Cubs Chairman Tom Ricketts called him "a hero to a generation of fans" and celebrated his "integrity, grit, and competitive fire," noting Sandberg’s pride in being a family man. "‘Ryno’ will never be forgotten," Ricketts affirmed.

Sandberg is survived by his wife, Margaret, their children, and grandchildren. The Cubs organization and baseball fans worldwide mourn the loss of a true legend.