Chicago — Hall of Famer Ryne Sandberg, the indelible soul of the Chicago Cubs, died Monday at the age of 65, after a long and courageous battle with metastatic prostate cancer. The team confirmed the sad news in an official statement.
“The last swing that no one wanted to see…”
Sandberg’s final swing didn’t come at Wrigley Field — it was when he looked around his hospital room, surrounded by his loved ones, and whispered:
“I don’t know how much time I have left… but if I could just stand at Wrigley… I’d still do it.”
A 1984 NL MVP, nine-time Gold Glove, seven-time Silver Slugger, and 10-time All-Star, Sandberg was more than just a player—he embodied the Chicago Cubs spirit that has inspired nearly 150 years of history.
The lasting legacy of a Cubs icon
282 home runs, 1,061 RBIs, 344 stolen bases, and a .989 fielding percentage at second base—numbers that are more than just statistics, they are enduring symbols.
A monument was erected on Gallagher Way in June 2024 to commemorate the legendary “Sandberg Game” of June 23, 1984, when he hit two home runs in the final two innings and won a 10-game series against the Cardinals.
MLB and President Jed Hoyer send their deepest condolences. MLB pledges to continue supporting Stand Up To Cancer, in keeping with the wishes of the star who inspired the league.
Remembering a legend, rekindling Chicago pride
The number 23 has been retired. An icon has left the field, but his spirit — his legendary catches, the faces of fans holding his glove — will live on in the minds of a generation of young Cubs. MLB, the Cubs and millions of fans around the world stand together to say goodbye to a man who helped define Chicago baseball.