Hall of Famer Ryne Sandberg passed away at the age of 65, following a courageous two-year battle with cancer. Sandberg, one of the most beloved players in the Cubs’ history, was the heart of the team during the 1980s and early ’90s. Known for his all-around talent, he earned 10 straight All-Star selections and won nine consecutive Gold Glove awards as a second baseman. One of Sandberg’s most memorable moments came on June 23, 1984.

That day, he hit two game-tying home runs in the 9th and 10th innings against the St. Louis Cardinals legend Bruce Sutter. That performance, now known as “The Sandberg Game,” helped spark a magical Cubs postseason run and earned him the 1984 National League MVP Award.

Marquee Sports Network broke the unfortunate news of Sandberg’s passing on X, writing: “Cubs legend Ryne Sandberg has passed away. He was 65.” 

Sandberg let the world know about his cancer battle on 22 January 2024, revealing that it was metastatic prostate cancer. He completed chemotherapy and radiation afterwards, and by August, scans showed no detection of cancer. But in December, it relapsed.

Earlier this month, Sandberg affirmed that he would continue to fight this disease, noting, “Looking forward to making the most of every day with my loving family and friends.” On the 40th anniversary of The Sandberg Game in June itself, the Cubs honored him with a statue at Wrigley Field.

Upon his passing, on behalf of the entire Cubs nation, executive chairman Tom Ricketts issued a statement: “Ryne Sandberg was a hero to a generation of Chicago Cubs fans and will be remembered as one of the all-time greats in nearly 150 years of this historic franchise.” Sandberg was deeply respected, and his No. 23 jersey was retired in 2005.

For now, the baseball world is mourning the loss of the iconic legend, whose legacy will live on.

Baseball world bids farewell to one of the Cubs’ greatest legends

“A legend of the diamond—his legacy will live on🕊️⚾️,” wrote a fan. Truly! Back in 1990, Sandberg hit 40 home runs. At that time, he was only the third second baseman to achieve that milestone.

Not just Cubs fans, but the entire league can’t seem to shake off this loss. “I’m a Sox fan, and I can tip my hat to a legend. Rip, king,” wrote another fan. Sandberg played 15 seasons for the Chicago Cubs, including 10 back-to-back All-Star appearances and nine straight Gold Glove awards. For all his achievements, he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2005.

“I had that Nike poster “Cornerstone” of him on my wall as a kid. He was quite a player. Condolences to his family,” a netizen wrote. Well, Sandberg clearly left a long-lasting legacy. He stole 33 bases and slugged 282 home runs with 1,061 RBIs in his career.

“Rest in peace, Legend. You will be missed 🙏💙⚾,” read another comment. Sandberg passed away in the comfort of his home. He was surrounded by his loved ones—his wife, children, and grandchildren.

“Damn, childhood hero gone too soon. RIP big Ryno💔,” one more X user commented. For now, the community is struggling to come to terms with his passing. The heartfelt condolences have been pouring in from all across the league. Sandberg made an everlasting impact on the sport. Thoughts are with his loved ones!

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