When it comes to paying tribute to the legends who built the Cubs’ legacy, Shota Imanaga has reflected that he understands the weight of history. The fan favorite Japanese pitcher recently made headlines by honoring a Hall of Famer of the Cubs with a 3-word autograph tribute in a way that combined baseball, memory, and artistry. Imanaga’s gesture linked two eras of Cubs greatness: the past of “Ryno” and the present of Imanaga’s rising stardom.

The moment came courtesy of Topps, which shared on Instagram that Imanaga inscribed “MISS YOU RYNO” on his autograph card, along with “RYNO” in his signature. This tribute touched the fans who were still remembering Ryne Sandberg’s influence on the team, and it showcased Imanaga’s respect for Cubs tradition. Sandberg, who carried the franchise through the 1980s and became a franchise icon, has long been remembered as one of the greatest to ever wear the uniform. Imanaga’s acknowledgment reflects a rare bridge between a new face and an old legend.

This praise comes at a time when Imanaga himself is making his own reputation in Chicago. His rookie debut patch autograph card sold for a record $82,961 at Goldin’s April Elite Auction, setting a public record for any of his cards. That achievement underscores not only his popularity but also his growing stature within the game. Fans have been fascinated ever since his historic MLB debut on April 1, 2024, when he carried a no-hitter into the sixth, struck out nine, and earned the win against the Rockies.

For those wondering why this tribute resonates so strongly, it is because the two stars symbolize transformative periods for the Cubs. Sandberg brought consistency and star power at the period of years when the Cubs needed it most, while Shota Imanaga arrived in 2024 and quickly became a stabilizing force on the field. In the star’s first season, Imanaga went 15-3 with a 2.91 ERA and 174 strikeouts in 173.1 innings, earning an All-Star nod and finishing fifth in NL Cy Young voting. To see Imanaga honor Sandberg is to witness a star aware of the shoulders he stands on.

And such an awareness has not diminished as Shota Imanaga’s career has progressed. In 2025, he continued to shine, posting a 9-7 record with a 3.21 ERA across 129 innings and striking out 101 with an elite 0.93 WHIP. Much like Ryne Sandberg in his period, Shota Imanaga has become not just a reliable performer but also a star the fans can rally behind. Imanaga’s heartfelt “MISS YOU RYNO” inscription says all that, while new heroes are rising at Wrigley, the legends still inspire today’s stars.

However, Imanaga was not the only one honoring the Sandberg. The tributes for the legend came from every corner of the MLB.

Sandberg was appreciated everywhere

Ryne Sandberg’s greatness did not stop at Wrigley Field, it stretched across rivalries and city lines. Cubs fans adored Sandberg for his HOF career, however, the White Sox and the Cardinals fans admired the legend too. Broadcasters like Darrin Jackson and Steve Stone remembered not just Sandberg’s elite capabilities however, the instance he set. As Stone said, Sandberg was the kind of star you would want your son to grow up emulating, a star whose skill was as personal as it was professional.

That popularity was echoed by the White Sox stars and staff by remembering the legend this week. From his legendary 1984 MVP season and “Sandberg Game” counter to the Cardinals to his quiet humor as a behind-the-scenes clubhouse joker, Sandberg embodied humility, professionalism, and consistency. As Will Venable said, Sandberg transcended not just the Cubs however, but the sport itself. Whether through Sandberg’s flawless defense, power at second base, and his character off the field, his legacy reached far beyond the North Side because he is a true baseball gentleman and is remembered everywhere.

Ryne Sandberg’s passing has shown just how deeply the legend was respected across MLB. From a heartfelt message by Shota Imanaga to tributes from longtime White Sox voices, “Ryno” left a mark that crossed the box scores. The legend’s humility, professionalism, and quiet charisma made Ryne a role model not only for co-stars but for generations of the fanbase. As baseball pauses to honor his legacy, one thing is certain: Sandberg will be remembered as one of the game’s true gentlemen.