Cubs legend Ryne Sandberg has shared an unfortunate update on his prostate cancer.
In a post on Instagram, Sandberg, 65, announced that his cancer has returned and spread to other parts of his body.
“To my Chicago Cubs, National Baseball Hall of Fame, the city of Chicago, and all my loyal fans, I want to share an update on my prostate cancer. Unfortunately we recently learned the cancer has relapsed, and it has spread to other organs,” Sandberg wrote.
“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 greeted with a number of well-wishes on his social media post.
“I’m praying for God’s healing blood 🩸 and protection over you @rynesandberg23 🙏🏾🙏🏾 Love you brother ❤️,” wrote former Mets great Daryl Strawberry.
Former Cubs great and Baseball Hall of Famer Ferguson Jenkins commented, “Praying for you, Ryno! 🙏🏾”
The announcement was particularly harrowing because the latest news on Sandberg’s cancer had been promising.
Sandberg first revealed his cancer diagnosis in January, and in August had jubilantly shared an update that he was cancer-free.
Sandberg made his MLB debut with the Pirates in 1981, registering six plate appearances.
He was traded to the Cubs in 1982, and played there until his retirement in 1997.
Sandberg was the 1984 NL MVP, a 10-time All-Star, seven-time Silver Slugger and nine-time Gold Glove winner.
He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2005.
After his playing career, Sandberg managed the Phillies beginning in 2013 and resigned during the 2015 season.
