A tragedy has struck the sports world with the death of a Hall of Fame legend at age 65

It was announced today that former Chicago Cubs 2nd Baseman and Hall of Famer Ryne Sandberg passed away at the age of 65.

Sandberg played 15 seasons of his MLB career with the Cubs, made several appearances in the hockey world, was a 10-time All Star, and a NL MVP in 1984, and was sadly diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer in January 2024.

Sandberg was a prolific figure in Chicago sports and a fan favorite at Wrigley Field. He'd post a career .285 batting average, 2,386 hits,1,061 RBIs, and 344 stolen bases.

Sandberg wouldn't step away from the game of baseball after his playing career ended. He'd return to the team that originally drafted him in the 1978 MLB Draft, in the 20th round, the Philadelphia Phillies.

He'd serve as the manager of the Phillies from 2013-15, and would post a record of 119-159.

He'd continue his mentorship in baseball, as he'd provide training and guidance for young Cubs infielders at Wrigley Field. He'd also serve as an ambassador for the Cubs, and would include broadcasting as an analyst, both pregame and postgame to his resume.

Sandberg's impact on the Cubs materialized in a statue, which was unveiled on June 23, 2024, in order to memorialize the player and the 40th anniversary of the Sandberg game, which forever rests in the history of the Cubs franchise.

Sandberg wasn't only a threat in the batter's box; he'd be a lethal threat in 1982, proving himself capable of stealing bases (32) during his 1982 debut with the Cubs. His impact would lead the team to winning a divisional title in 1984, and he would hit 40 home runs in 1990, only the third primary second baseman to accomplish such a feat.

The Chicago Cubs and the baseball community have witnessed greatness every time he stepped to the plate and on the field.

The game has lost a giant in Sandberg, as he's passed away too soon.

Rest in Peace Ryne Sandberg.