CHICAGO, IL — The baseball world is mourning the loss of one of its most iconic figures as the Chicago Cubs pay heartfelt tribute to Ryne Sandberg, the legendary second baseman, who passed away on July 28, 2025, at the age of 65 following a battle with prostate cancer.
On Saturday, August 2, 2025, just five days after Sandberg’s passing, the Cubs honored his memory in front of thousands of fans at Wrigley Field during their home game against the Baltimore Orioles. In a poignant display of remembrance, every Cubs player wore a special jersey emblazoned with Sandberg’s famed number 23, a number synonymous with excellence, consistency, and grace in the world of baseball.
A Moment of Silence and a Wave of Emotion at Wrigley
Before the first pitch, the stadium paused for a moment of silence as Sandberg’s life and contributions were honored. The scoreboard beamed with a photo of a smiling Ryne Sandberg, accompanied by the words: “Forever #23 – A Cubs Legend.”
Fans, many wearing vintage Sandberg jerseys and Cubs caps pulled low to hide their tears, stood in solemn unity. The tribute was not just for a Hall of Fame athlete — it was for a man who embodied everything Cubs baseball stands for.
The Cubs also aired a special video montage featuring highlights from Sandberg’s remarkable career, including his unforgettable two-homer performance in the classic 1984 “Sandberg Game” against the St. Louis Cardinals — a moment many consider the turning point that returned national attention to the Cubs franchise in the 1980s.
A Hall of Fame Legacy Etched in Cubs History
Ryne Sandberg, known to fans simply as “Ryno,” played 15 MLB seasons, 13 of them with the Cubs. Over that time, he was a 10-time All-Star, 9-time Gold Glove winner, 7-time Silver Slugger, and the 1984 National League MVP.
He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2005, and the Cubs officially retired his number 23 — a banner that now waves above the Friendly Confines of Wrigley Field.
Born in Spokane, Washington, Sandberg was drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies but became a household name in Chicago following a trade that has since become one of the most lopsided in baseball history. His quiet leadership and work ethic earned the respect of teammates and opponents alike, while his performance on the field helped redefine the role of the second baseman.
Remembering a Humble Giant
In a press statement, Cubs Chairman Tom Ricketts reflected on Sandberg’s enduring legacy:
“Ryne Sandberg was the heart and soul of the Cubs for over a decade. He was a fierce competitor, a humble leader, and a beloved ambassador of the game. His impact will be felt in Chicago — and baseball — for generations to come.”
Sandberg revealed his cancer diagnosis in early 2024, choosing to fight the illness with the same quiet resilience he showed throughout his career. Fans followed his journey with love and support, many hoping for a recovery that tragically never came.
He is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren, many of whom were in attendance at Saturday’s game, sitting solemnly behind home plate as fans chanted “Ryno! Ryno!” during the final tribute.
Beyond the Game
Beyond his achievements on the field, Sandberg was known as a mentor, philanthropist, and supporter of young athletes. He remained active in the Cubs community long after his retirement, often appearing at charity events, baseball clinics, and fan conventions. His humility, respect for the game, and commitment to its growth made him a role model far beyond Chicago.
In 2023, Sandberg received the Cubs Legacy Award for his lifelong contributions to the organization and was honored in his final public appearance during the 2024 Cubs Opening Day ceremony — a moment fans now treasure even more deeply.
A Final Farewell, But Never Forgotten
The Cubs announced that the special No. 23 jerseys worn on Saturday will be auctioned off, with all proceeds benefiting prostate cancer research and awareness initiatives — a cause that Sandberg had advocated for during his final year.
As the game began, the Cubs’ players touched the “#23” patch on their chests, honoring their hero. Wrigley Field stood not as a ballpark, but as a temple of memory — where greatness once played, and where his spirit will forever remain.
Rest in Peace, Ryne “Ryno” Sandberg (1959–2025)
A legend on the diamond. A gentleman in life.
🔗 Read more tributes and full coverage on The Chronicle