You know that I don’t eulogize a celebrity unless they truly meant something to me and I’m truly mourning their passing. In this case, it’s a celebrity athlete, which means they aren’t as well-known around the world. The past two weeks have been hard on us GenXers, but the latest death hit me the hardest. I’ve mentioned before how I grew up as a Chicago Cubs fan, and my favorite player was Ryne Sandberg.

Ryno was amazing to watch at 2nd base. He could teach a master class on 2nd base defense. Second base is my favorite infield position, and it’s because of Ryno. Not only did he make it look easy, but he also made it look fun.

He Didn’t Do It For the Money

When you listen to the stories pouring out from his old teammates and coaches, you learn so much more. He was always a professional. He played the way he played because that’s how you’re supposed to play; it was never about the money. If you don’t believe me, read about his 1994 retirement.

He walked away from a $16 million contract extension because he felt like his game was slipping. He did come back in 1996 to play two more years with the Cubs, and his performance was amazing again. Then, he officially retired at the end of the 1997 season.

I got to meet him once, in the 90s. It was the Cubs Convention in Chicago. I got his autograph and a quick photo with him.

Getting Ryne Sandberg’s autograph at the Cubs Convention about 30 years ago

Thank you for all the childhood memories.

RIP