Ryno

There comes a time in life when our heroes and legends begin to leave us. For Gen X, it feels like that time is speeding up.

Hulk. Ozzy. Malcolm. And now... Ryno.

I still remember the thrill of hearing Van Halen’s “Jump” blast through the TV speakers to start Cubs baseball in 1984. I’d crank the volume and spend the whole game pitching against the front stairs in my childhood home.

Ryno was Cubs baseball to me. He made me fall in love with the sport. He made me a Cubs fan. I’ve never been a quiet person, but I admired Ryne Sandberg’s quiet, relentless "go to work" mentality.

Like many Cubs fans today, I’m lost. I’m sad. And I’m reminded that our time here is short—so enjoy the hell out of it while you can.

Thank you, #23. Rest in peace.

Ryne "Ryno" Sandberg
1959-2025