The baseball community mourned Ryne Sandberg on Monday evening after the former Chicago Cubs player passed away following a battle with prostate cancer.
Sandberg was first diagnosed with cancer in January 2024. By July, he confidently announced that he was cancer-free. However, he revealed in December that the cancer had returned and had spread.
The 65-year-old was well-known for his impressive playing skills and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2005, a testament to his talent.
His death has created a void in the hearts of many fans and players alike.
“For those of us who cherish baseball, we’ve lost one of the greatest second basemen ever. #23. What a remarkable player and person,” Jim Palmer tweeted.
Frank Thomas, a Chicago sports icon and a former player for the White Sox, described Sandberg as a “class act.” He expressed his sorrow, saying, “Rip Ryno! Honestly, I don’t know what to say. It always felt special getting to know you and Margaret on our way to Cooperstown. You’ve been a source of humor, always teasing me about being my wife’s favorite player. Your classiness will be missed by many.”
Walter Payton’s son, Jarrett, also paid tribute by writing “Rip Ryne Sandberg” on social media, sharing a photo of Sandberg in a Cubs uniform.
Michael Kay, a Yankees broadcaster, labeled Sandberg’s passing as “Just Fair News” while announcing it during a broadcast of the Yankees game on Monday.
Chipper Jones shared his thoughts on social media, reflecting on the tragic loss of baseball legends. “Man, tonight is tough…. We lose our greats too soon, far too frequently!” he posted.
In another poignant moment in Chicago, a solitary rose was laid at Sandberg’s statue outside Wrigley Field.
