Ryne Sandberg Dies at 65: Reflecting on the Life, Career, and Legacy of the Cubs Legend
Ryne Sandberg, the iconic second baseman of the Chicago Cubs, passed away on July 28, 2025, at the age of 65, following a courageous battle with metastatic prostate cancer. Known for his quiet strength, leadership on the field, and unwavering loyalty to the game of baseball, Sandberg’s death marks a tremendous loss to Major League Baseball, his family, and millions of fans around the world.
His passing has sparked a surge of searches including: “Ryne Sandberg death,” “how did Ryne Sandberg die,” “Ryne Sandberg cancer,” and “did Ryne Sandberg pass away,” confirming that the world is grieving a sports icon who was so much more than just a baseball player.
A Hero’s Battle: Ryne Sandberg’s Health and Cause of Death
In January 2024, Ryne Sandberg publicly announced that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer. At first, there was hope—by mid-2024, he briefly entered remission. However, later that year, the cancer returned aggressively and became metastatic, spreading beyond the prostate to other parts of his body.
Despite his declining health, Sandberg showed his enduring spirit by making public appearances, including a heartfelt moment at Cubs spring training in February 2025. Sadly, he passed away just five months later, surrounded by his wife, children, and grandchildren. For those searching “how did Ryan Sandberg die” or “Ryne Sandberg cause of death,” the answer is metastatic prostate cancer, a disease he battled with remarkable bravery and grace.
Early Life and Rise to Fame
Born Ryne Dee Sandberg on September 18, 1959, in Spokane, Washington, he was named after relief pitcher Ryne Duren, a favorite of his father. He attended North Central High School, where he was a standout in both football and baseball. Though originally committed to play college football at Washington State University, his life changed when he was drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies in 1978.
After spending a few seasons in the minors, he made his MLB debut in 1981. Little did anyone know that a trade to the Chicago Cubs in 1982 would lead to one of the most storied careers in Cubs—and MLB—history.
The Cubs Era: A Legacy Cemented
Ryne Sandberg became a cornerstone of the Chicago Cubs. Known for his slick fielding, quiet leadership, and powerful bat, he won the National League MVP in 1984, the same year he led the Cubs to a division title and starred in what is now known as “The Sandberg Game.”
Over the next decade, Sandberg would go on to:
- Win 9 consecutive Gold Glove Awards
- Earn 7 Silver Slugger Awards
- Make 10 All-Star Game appearances
- Hit a career-high 40 home runs in 1990, leading the National League
- Record a .989 fielding percentage at second base, setting a major league record
He retired with a lifetime .285 batting average, 282 home runs, 1,061 RBIs, and 344 stolen bases—a resume that speaks for itself.
If you searched for “Ryne Sandberg stats” or “Ryan Sandberg Cubs,” you’ll find one of the most complete, respected, and balanced careers in MLB history.
Return, Retirement, and Hall of Fame Induction
Though he briefly retired in 1994, Sandberg returned to the Cubs for the 1996 and 1997 seasons before retiring for good. In 2005, he was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame, joining the ranks of baseball’s immortals.
In 2016, the Cubs awarded him a World Series ring after breaking their championship drought—honoring not just the current roster, but those who helped build the franchise’s legacy.
Just months before his death, a bronze statue of Ryne Sandberg was unveiled at Wrigley Field’s Gallagher Way, giving fans a permanent reminder of their beloved No. 23.
Post-Playing Career and Contributions
Following his retirement, Sandberg took up broadcasting and coaching. He joined ESPN Radio, then worked his way through the Cubs’ minor league system as a manager before briefly taking over as manager of the Philadelphia Phillies from 2013 to 2015.
While his managerial record wasn’t stellar, he earned respect for his mentorship and knowledge of the game. In 2016, he returned to the Cubs as a goodwill ambassador, where he remained active until his passing.
Family and Personal Life
Ryne Sandberg was married to Margaret Sandberg, with whom he co-founded the Ryno Kid Care Foundation, focused on supporting seriously ill children. He had two children, Justin and Lindsey, from his first marriage to his high school sweetheart Cindy. He was also a stepfather and grandfather to 11 grandchildren.
For those searching “Ryne Sandberg wife” or “Ryne Sandberg family,” it’s clear he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who prioritized family alongside his career.
Net Worth and Financial Legacy
At the time of his death, Ryne Sandberg Net Worth was estimated to be $16 million. During his playing days, he became the highest-paid player in baseball in 1992, earning $7 million per year—equivalent to roughly $14 million today.
He also made wise investments in real estate, including homes in Phoenix and Lake Bluff, Illinois. His enduring connection to the Cubs through ambassadorial duties and appearances further supplemented Ryne Sandberg Net Worth in his later years.
Tributes Pour In
Upon hearing the news of his death, tributes came flooding in from the Cubs organization, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, and countless fans.
“Ryno was the heart of the Cubs for a generation of fans. He led with quiet excellence and represented everything great about baseball.” — Tom Ricketts, Cubs Chairman
Social media was flooded with messages of love, memories, and shared grief. Whether fans were searching “did Ryne Sandberg die” or “is Ryne Sandberg still alive,” they were ultimately reminded of his incredible legacy and the profound impact he had on baseball.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ryne Sandberg
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| When did Ryne Sandberg die? | July 28, 2025 |
| What was the cause of death? | Metastatic prostate cancer |
| What kind of cancer did he have? | Prostate cancer that later became metastatic |
| How old was Ryne Sandberg when he died? | 65 years old |
| What is Ryne Sandberg Net Worth? | Estimated at $16 million |
| Who was his wife? | Margaret Sandberg |
| What are his career stats? | .285 BA, 282 HRs, 1,061 RBIs, 9 Gold Gloves, 7 Silver Sluggers |
Final Farewell: A Legend Remembered
Ryne Sandberg, or “Ryno” as he was affectionately called, may be gone, but his legacy lives on at Wrigley Field, in the Cubs’ history books, and in the hearts of fans around the world. For those still searching “Ryan Sandberg dead” or “what did Ryne Sandberg die from,” the answer is clear—but more importantly, so is the memory he leaves behind.
He wasn’t just a Cubs legend—he was a baseball gentleman, a family man, and a class act. May he rest in peace.
