How Did Ryne Sandberg Die? On July 28, 2025, the baseball world lost one of its brightest stars, Ryne Sandberg, at the age of 65. Known affectionately as “Ryno,” Sandberg was a Hall of Fame second baseman who spent nearly his entire career with the Chicago Cubs, becoming a beloved figure in the city and beyond. His death, following a courageous battle with metastatic prostate cancer, left fans, teammates, and the entire Major League Baseball (MLB) community in mourning. Let’s take a moment to reflect on his life, his fight, and the legacy he leaves behind.
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A Stellar Career Cut Short
Ryne Sandberg was more than just a baseball player—he was a Chicago icon. Born on September 18, 1959, in Spokane, Washington, Sandberg rose to fame as a second baseman, playing 16 seasons in the MLB, primarily with the Cubs from 1982 to 1997, with a brief stint with the Philadelphia Phillies in 1981. His career was nothing short of remarkable: a .285 batting average, 282 home runs, 10 consecutive All-Star selections, nine straight Gold Glove Awards, and seven Silver Slugger Awards. In 1984, he earned the National League MVP award, highlighted by the unforgettable “Sandberg Game,” where he hit two game-tying home runs against the St. Louis Cardinals, cementing his place in Cubs lore. His induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2005 was a testament to his skill and impact on the game.
But beyond the stats, Sandberg was known for his work ethic, humility, and love for the game. Cubs president Jed Hoyer called him a “superhero in this city,” comparing him to legends like Michael Jordan and Walter Payton. Sandberg’s quiet leadership and relentless hustle made him a fan favorite, and his statue outside Wrigley Field, unveiled in 2024, stands as a permanent tribute to his contributions.
The Diagnosis That Shocked Fans
In January 2024, Sandberg shared heartbreaking news with the world: he had been diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer. At the time, he was open about his condition, vowing to fight with the same determination he brought to the diamond. He underwent chemotherapy and radiation treatments, and by August 2024, he announced he was cancer-free, giving fans a glimmer of hope. Social media posts showed him smiling, optimistic, and grateful for the support from Cubs fans and the baseball community. His resilience was inspiring, and many believed he had beaten the disease.
However, in December 2024, Sandberg revealed that the cancer had returned and spread to other organs, requiring more intensive treatment. In a heartfelt Instagram post, he wrote, “We will continue to be positive, strong, and fight to beat this.” His words reflected his characteristic grit, but the aggressive nature of the cancer posed a formidable challenge.
The Final Days and a Brave Fight
Throughout 2025, Sandberg continued to battle, even as his health declined. In a July 21 Instagram update, he shared that the past few months had been challenging, with regular treatments taking a toll. Yet, he remained focused on cherishing time with his family and friends, expressing gratitude for their support. He also mentioned watching Cubs games from home, unable to visit Wrigley Field as often as he wished but still cheering for the team he loved.
On July 28, 2025, surrounded by his family at his home, Sandberg passed away due to complications from metastatic prostate cancer. The Cubs announced his death, and tributes poured in from across the baseball world. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred praised his “power, speed, and work ethic,” while Cubs chairman Tom Ricketts called him “one of the all-time greats” in the franchise’s nearly 150-year history.

A Legacy Beyond the Field
Sandberg’s impact extended far beyond his on-field achievements. He and his wife, Margaret, founded Ryno Kid Care, an organization dedicated to supporting children with serious illnesses. The program provided mentors, meals, and even clowns dressed as doctors to bring joy to young patients. His commitment to giving back showed the same heart he displayed as a player. Sandberg was also a devoted husband, father to two children from his first marriage, and stepfather to three from Margaret’s previous marriage, with eight grandchildren who brought him immense pride.
His role as a Cubs ambassador, occasional broadcaster, and mentor to younger players kept him connected to the game after retirement. Even during his illness, he made appearances at spring training in 2025, inspiring those around him with his positivity. Cubs manager Craig Counsell noted how meaningful it was to have Sandberg spend time with the team despite his health struggles.
Honoring Ryno’s Memory
The baseball community continues to honor Sandberg’s memory. The Cubs plan to wear a special jersey patch for the remainder of the 2025 season, a fitting tribute to a man who embodied the spirit of the franchise. Fans have taken to social media to share stories of meeting Sandberg, watching the “Sandberg Game,” or simply admiring his quiet strength. Posts on X reflect the heartbreak, with fans calling him a “class act” and expressing anger at cancer’s toll.
Ryne Sandberg’s death is a profound loss, but his legacy as a player, philanthropist, and family man endures. He faced cancer with the same courage he showed stealing bases or diving for ground balls. While he may no longer be with us, Ryno’s statue at Wrigley Field and the memories of his incredible career will inspire generations to come. Rest in peace, Ryno—you’ll always be a hero in Chicago and beyond.