Ryne Sandberg was a Chicago Cubs mainstay for fifteen seasons. The illustrious infielder, who received numerous awards during his career, broke the devastating news of his cancer diagnosis to Major League Baseball fans today.
The 64-year-old Sandberg made his Major League baseball debut in 1981 during a brief run with the Philadelphia Phillies. The second baseman eventually signed a contract with the Cubs in 1982, the team he had always admired.
Over the course of his 15-year career, Sandberg won nine Gold Gloves and seven Silver Sluggers, was named an All-Star ten times, and was awarded the National League Most Valuable Player in 1990. In 2005, the year he was inducted into the Hall of Fame, the team retired his number.
The illustrious former player has now revealed that, 27 years after retiring, he was given a metastatic prostate cancer diagnosis last week.
Sandberg promises to put up a fight.
In a statement posted to his Instagram account on Monday, the athlete announced the notice, addressing it “To my Chicago Cubs, the National Baseball Hall of Fame, the extended Baseball family, the city of Chicago, and all my loyal fans.”
Sandberg stated: “I have begun treatment and am surrounded by my loving wife Margaret, our incredibly supportive family, the best healthcare team, and our dear friends.”
He made it clear that he is making an effort to keep a strong, upbeat attitude and “fight to beat this.” Please remember my family and I at this trying time, and keep us in your prayers.”
In response to the news, the Cubs moved quickly, putting up a message on their X account that said, “Ryne, we send you love, strength, and support on your journey.” We are uniting with open arms to support you and your family as you fight this war.”
Ryne was a Cubs icon
During his tenure with Chicago, Sandberg amassed a batting average of.285 with 2,386 hits, 282 home runs, 1,061 runs scored, and 344 stolen bases.
After hitting, he was elected MVP in 1984, which was his best season.314 with 19 home runs, 19 triples, and 114 runs scored to lead the league.
In addition to managing the Phillies, Sandberg led the team for three seasons, recording 119 victories against 159 defeats.
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