Cubs Icon Ryne Sandberg’s Final Chapter: Cause of Death Confirmed
Chicago Cubs legend Ryne Sandberg, who passed away at age 65 on July 28, 2025, finally had the cause of his death officially confirmed, ending weeks of speculation. The team revealed that Sandberg died at home surrounded by family after a courageous battle with metastatic prostate cancer.
For months, fans and the media pondered his condition, fueled by hints from those close to him. The Cubs and Sandberg himself had maintained a degree of privacy, making this official confirmation all the more poignant.
A Legacy of Excellence on and off the Field
Born in Spokane, Washington, in 1959, Sandberg was drafted by the Phillies in 1978 before being traded to the Cubs in 1982, where he starred for 15 seasons.
He finished his career with a .285 batting average, 282 home runs, 1,061 RBIs, and 344 stolen bases, earning 10 All-Star selections, nine Gold Gloves, and seven Silver Slugger awards. His standout year was 1984, when he was named National League MVP.
His breakthrough came in the famed “Sandberg Game” of June 23, 1984, where two clutch home runs helped deliver a historic win over the St. Louis Cardinals—a moment immortalized by Cubs fans.
In 2005, Sandberg was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, and the Cubs retired his number 23. A bronze statue honoring him was unveiled outside Wrigley Field in 2024.
Health Battle and Final Months
In January 2024, Sandberg publicly announced a diagnosis of metastatic prostate cancer. He underwent chemotherapy and radiation and disclosed in August that year that he was cancer-free. Sadly, by December 2024, he revealed the cancer had returned and spread to other parts of his body.
Despite his condition, Sandberg remained engaged with the Cubs, attending spring training and even throwing the ceremonial first pitch at Wrigley Field in April 2025. He continued to share updates, expressing gratitude for fan support and his desire to live each day with those he loved.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred praised Sandberg as a five-tool player whose dedication and sportsmanship left an indelible mark. Tributes also flooded in from Hall of Famers, former teammates, and fans worldwide.
Personal remembrances highlighted his humility and mentorship. Former Cubs president Jed Hoyer compared his influence in Chicago to that of other local legends. Mark Grace called him a role model both on and off the field.
Summary Table
Aspect Details
Full Name Ryne Dee Sandberg
Date of Death July 28, 2025, age 65
Cause Metastatic prostate cancer
Major Achievements 10× All-Star, 9× Gold Glove, 7× Silver Slugger, 1984 NL MVP, Hall of Fame inductee (2005)
Career Stats .285 average, 282 HR, 1,061 RBIs, 344 SB
Legacy Honors Jersey #23 retired, statue unveiled at Wrigley Field in 2024
Post-Retirement Roles Phillies manager (2013–15), Cubs ambassador, frequent public appearances
Family Survived by wife Margaret, five children, and multiple grandchildren
Ryne Sandberg’s passing marks the end of an era in Cubs history. Though speculation had swirled about his health, the official confirmation of prostate cancer as the cause of death offers clarity amid the sorrow. His legendary career, unwavering character, and quiet leadership made him more than a sports icon, he was a symbol of enduring integrity.