Jun 10, 2015; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Philadelphia Phillies manager Ryne Sandberg watches from the dugout during a game with the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports
Ryne Sandberg, the Baseball Hall of Famer renowned for his legendary career with the Chicago Cubs and part of one of the worst trades in Philadelphia Phillies history, has died at the age of 65 after a widely publicized battle with metastatic prostate cancer.
Though he made only a brief 13‑game appearance with the Philadelphia Phillies at the start of his MLB career in 1981, his connection to the franchise ran deep: he was drafted in 1978 (20th round) and developed through the Phillies' farm system before being traded — along with elder statesman Larry Bowa — to the Cubs in exchange for Ivan DeJesus, in a move widely considered one of the most lopsided in Phillies history.
Sandberg's Hall of Fame career was built with the Cubs: a National League MVP in 1984, 10 straight All‑Star selections, nine consecutive Gold Gloves and seven Silver Slugger Awards; he pioneered excellence at second base and remained a beloved Cubs ambassador long after his playing days ended.
In fact, last week he posted to social media a final update on his health and said that although he had not been able to make it to Wrigley Field, he was watching the Cubs every day and rooting for them to win in the second half.
Phillies' managing partner and CEO John Middleton issued a statement on Sandberg's passing, saying, "Not only was he a Hall of Famer, he was a man who personified class and dignity. We were honored that he was part of our organization. We extend our heartfelt condolences to (his wife) Margaret and the entire Sandberg family."
Bringing his baseball career full-circle, Sandberg returned to Philadelphia to help shape the Phillies, first through their player development department and then he managed their Triple-A affiliate Lehigh Valley IronPigs from 2011-12, leading Lehigh Valley to their first postseason appearance in 2011 with 80 wins and earning Minor League Manager of the Year honors.
He would later serve as manager of the Phillies from 2013 through 2015, replacing Charlie Manuel, where he compiled a 119–159 record.
Sandberg’s cancer battle, first announced in January 2024, included a temporary remission before it returned later in 2024; he continued to receive treatment and made public appearances, remaining positive and committed to time with family and friends even as he prioritized his health.
Phillies broadcasters Tom McCarthy and John Kruk gave a touching tribute to Sandberg during the seventh inning of Monday's game in Chicago against the White Sox.
Sandberg's influence in both Chicago and Philadelphia will be remembered not just for his statistics, but for his leadership, professionalism, and enduring connection to both franchises.
