Chicago, IL — The baseball world has lost one of its greatest hearts. Ryne Sandberg, Hall of Famer and Chicago Cubs heartthrob, has passed away at the age of 65 after a long battle with metastatic prostate cancer.
In a heartbreaking statement from the team this morning, the Cubs confirmed that Sandberg passed away surrounded by his family at his home in Arizona. An air of mourning immediately enveloped Wrigley Field, the site of the legendary captain who wore the number 23 jersey.
“If there was one last time, I just want to stand in the middle of Wrigley and hear the crowd roar…”
Those were the emotional last words that Ryne Sandberg confided a few weeks ago when his health began to seriously decline. Despite trying to keep his condition a secret for months, Sandberg chose to bravely face the public in early 2024, when he shared:
“I’ve stood through rain showers and I’ve stood through days when the Cubs lost. But I’ve never lost the pride of wearing that jersey – until today.”
Lasting Legacy: Not Just an MVP, But an Immortal Icon
10-time All-Star, 9 Gold Gloves, 7 Silver Sluggers
MVP in 1984, the season marked by “The Sandberg Game” – two incredible homers against the Cardinals that even Bruce Sutter bowed his head.
The Cubs officially retired the number 23 in 2005, and a statue in his honor was erected on Gallagher Way in June 2024.
Immediately after the sad news, MLB and the baseball community across the US sent their deepest condolences. MLB President wrote:
“Ryne was more than just a great player — he was the embodiment of loyalty, tenacity and unbeatable Chicago character.”
At Wrigley Field, hundreds of fans gathered in silence, placing flowers and candles next to his bronze statue. On the big screen, a message appeared:
“Thank you, Ryne. Forever our Captain.”
Before leaving, Sandberg left a message to the fans:
“I lived a full life with the Cubs. If there is anything that gives me the most peace now… it is that I brought hope to the kids who once stood outside the ballpark fence, dreaming of being like me.”
🕯️ A Tribute
The official memorial will take place at Wrigley Field this weekend, where the Cubs will wear jerseys with a special patch: “Ryno 23”
MLB announced that the league will observe 23 seconds of silence during Sunday’s games.
Fans can send their condolences or donate to Stand Up To Cancer at: mlb.com/ryne
Ryne Sandberg may be gone from the field, but his spirit will live on in the sound of the bat, the squeak of the catcher’s glove, and in the hearts of everyone who ever called themselves a Chicago Cubs fan.