Ryne Sandberg, born on September 18, 1959, is an American former professional baseball player and manager, predominantly known for his illustrious career as a second baseman in Major League Baseball (MLB). Sandberg's career spanned from 1981 to 1997, during which he played the majority of his years for the Chicago Cubs and a short stint with the Philadelphia Phillies.
Sandberg is often regarded as one of the greatest second basemen in MLB history. His exceptional defensive skills, combined with his offensive prowess, solidified his place in baseball history. Throughout his career, he garnered numerous accolades, including ten consecutive Gold Glove Awards, nine All-Star selections, and the prestigious National League Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in 1984.
Sandberg's trademark skills included his range, agility, and exceptional ability to turn double plays. Offensively, he was known for his power-hitting capabilities, consistent batting average, and adept baserunning skills. He recorded 282 career home runs, 1,061 runs batted in (RBIs), and amassed a lifetime batting average of .285.
After retiring as a player, Sandberg ventured into coaching and managing. He notably served as the manager for the Philadelphia Phillies from 2013 to 2015. Sandberg's dedication, skillset, and contributions to the game have left an indelible mark on the sport, making him an iconic figure in the world of baseball.
