Hall of Fame second baseman Ryne Sandberg, one of the most revered figures in Chicago Cubs history, has revealed that his prostate cancer has returned and spread to other organs, less than a year after he first announced he was cancer-free.
The 65-year-old made the emotional announcement through a personal statement, once again leaning on the strength and optimism that defined both his career and his character.
“Unfortunately, we recently learned the cancer has relapsed, and it has spread to other organs,” Sandberg said.
“This means that I’m back to more intensive treatment. We will continue to be positive, strong, and fight to beat this. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers for me and my family.”
Sandberg was first diagnosed with prostate cancer in January 2024 and announced he was cancer-free in August after undergoing chemotherapy and immunotherapy. His courage and transparency inspired fans throughout the baseball world.
This renewed health challenge comes just months after Sandberg was honored outside Wrigley Field with a bronze statue, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest Cubs of all time. The ceremony, which brought together fans, teammates, and family, was a celebration of both his achievements on the field and his grace off it.
Ryne Sandberg’s resume reads like a chapter from baseball’s golden era:
10-time All-Star
9 Gold Glove Awards
7 Silver Sluggers
1984 National League MVP
Hall of Fame inductee (2005)
His performance in the legendary “Sandberg Game” in 1984 — where he hit two game-tying home runs off Bruce Sutter — remains one of the most iconic moments in MLB history. But beyond stats, it’s his quiet leadership and humble demeanor that have kept him close to the hearts of Cubs fans for generations.
Messages of support have poured in from across the country. Tom Ricketts, Cubs chairman, praised Sandberg’s strength:
“Ryno is a fighter — always has been. We stand with him and his family through every step of this journey.”
Earlier this year, Sandberg returned to Cubs Spring Training in Arizona. Despite undergoing treatment, he was seen engaging with both veterans and young players, offering advice, laughs, and even a few ground ball drills. For Sandberg, the game is more than just a memory — it’s therapy.
This is no longer just a sports story — it’s a human story. Ryne Sandberg’s openness about his health has shed light on men’s cancer awareness, inspiring many to pursue screenings and treatment.
“We will continue to be positive, strong, and fight to beat this,” Sandberg reiterated in his public statement.