The Chicago Cubs are mourning the loss of one of their team legends. Ryne Sandberg, the team's former star infielder, passed away on Monday following a length battle with cancer.
Back in January of 2023, Sandberg made he announcement that he had been diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer. He was declared cancer-free in August, but the cancer had come back December and spread elsewhere.
Losing Sandberg was a devastating loss for the Cubs. He has meant a lot to the organization over the years.
On Tuesday, Chicago made a major announcement regarding Sandberg. The Cubs revealed that they will be wearing a patch on their jersey for the rest of the season honoring him.
Throughout the course of his 2,164-game MLB career, Sandberg played all but one season with Chicago. He hit 282 home runs to go along with 1,061 RBI's and hit .285/.344/.452.
Following the news of his passing, former President Barack Obama took to social media to send a message honoring the legendary Cub.
"Hall of Famer and Cubs stalwart Ryne Sandberg wasn’t just a great baseball player – he was a class act who never cheated the game. Everyone in Chicago – including White Sox fans – will miss him deeply," Obama wrote.
Sandberg went on to coach following his playing career. He managed three seasons at the Major League level with the Philadelphia Phillies, compiling a career 119-159 record.
This is a touching gesture that shows a glimpse at how important Sandberg is to the Chicago franchise. He will be missed, but he will never be forgotten.