Sandberg’s early years in Chicago saw him transition from third base to second base—a move that would redefine the position. Known for his combination of power, speed, and defensive prowess, Sandberg quickly made an impact. In just his second season with the Cubs, he secured his first of nine consecutive Gold Glove Awards, setting the standard for second basemen across the league. His breakout campaign came in 1984, when he batted .314, led the league in runs (114) and triples (19), and slugged 19 home runs with 84 RBIs and 32 stolen bases. That year, he earned the National League Most Valuable Player (MVP) Award and led the Cubs to their first postseason appearance since 1945.
A defining moment in Sandberg’s career, often called “The Ryne Sandberg Game,” occurred on June 23, 1984. In a nationally televised matchup against the St. Louis Cardinals, Sandberg hit two game-tying home runs off future Hall of Famer Bruce Sutter, finishing the game with five hits and seven RBIs. This performance elevated Sandberg to national stardom and remains one of the most memorable games in Cubs history.
Sandberg’s statistical achievements are remarkable. Over his 16-season MLB career—primarily with the Cubs—he amassed 2,386 hits, 282 home runs (a record 277 as a second baseman at the time of his retirement), 1,316 runs, 1,061 RBIs, and 344 stolen bases, all while maintaining a .285 career batting average and a .989 fielding percentage at second base. He was a 10-time All-Star, earned seven Silver Slugger awards, and led the National League in home runs in 1990 with 40, becoming the first second baseman since Rogers Hornsby in 1925 to achieve such a feat. Sandberg’s excellence extended to the postseason, where he hit .385 with seven extra-base hits in 10 games.
Beyond his playing days, Sandberg continued to impact baseball as a coach and manager, including a stint managing the Philadelphia Phillies and serving as a beloved Cubs ambassador. His number 23 was retired by the Cubs, and he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2005, cementing his legacy among the game’s greats.
Tragically, Sandberg passed away on July 28, 2025, at the age of 65 after a battle with prostate cancer. The baseball community mourned the loss of a player who not only set statistical standards but also exemplified integrity, work ethic, and humility. Sandberg’s contributions—on and off the field—have left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring generations of fans and players alike. He is survived by his wife, Margaret, five children, and 11 grandchildren, and will forever be remembered as one of the all-time greats in the storied history of the Chicago Cubs and Major League Baseball.