CHICAGO — In a heartfelt gesture that bridges the past and present, Chicago Cubs owner Thomas S. Ricketts has officially approved a $15.6 million project to build a statue honoring Hall of Famer Ryne Sandberg outside the iconic Wrigley Field. The move pays tribute to one of the franchise’s most beloved legends, whose impact on the team — and the city — still echoes decades after his retirement.
Sandberg, affectionately known as “Ryno,” spent the majority of his storied career wearing Cubs pinstripes. With 10 All-Star selections, 9 Gold Gloves, and an MVP award to his name, he redefined the second base position and gave Chicago fans countless unforgettable moments from the 1980s through the mid-1990s.
“There’s no one more deserving,” Ricketts said in a statement. “Ryne Sandberg embodies everything the Cubs stand for — excellence, humility, and loyalty. His legacy belongs at Wrigley forever.”
The statue, scheduled for completion ahead of the 2026 season, will stand alongside those of other Cubs greats like Ernie Banks, Ron Santo, and Billy Williams. It will serve not only as a monument to Sandberg’s achievements but also as a symbol of gratitude from the organization and its fans.
For lifelong supporters of the North Siders, the tribute is long overdue. Sandberg’s leadership, class, and consistency helped shape a generation of Cubs baseball — often serving as the lone bright light in otherwise difficult seasons.
“I played for the name on the front of the jersey,” Sandberg once said. “But I’ll always be proud of the name on the back.”
The decision has sparked celebration across Cubs Nation, with fans flooding social media to share memories and express their appreciation. For many, the statue isn’t just a recognition of a player — it’s a tribute to a time, a team, and the enduring spirit of Chicago baseball.