Cubs fans are the ‘best medicine’ for Ryne Sandberg
The Cubs Convention is something Ryne Sandberg has marked on his calendar every year and this year, fans gave a rousing ovation with loud cheers and applause as he was introduced during the Opening Ceremonies.
“[Friday night] was awesome. It was something special that I’ll really never forget,” Sandberg said. “The fan support that I’ve gotten this past year has been off the charts. I felt it at the statue, and I felt it [Friday night]. It was heartfelt. It’s the best medicine I can think of. The Cubs fans, once again, they’ve been doing this for me since 1982, and it continues with the current players, with the alumni. We all love it.”
What fans may not know is as Sandberg endured treatment for prostate cancer, Cubs fans played a role in helping him through the early stages of treatment.
“Last year at Wrigley Field, I had some tremendous experiences with what I was going through, having some symptoms and some things leading up to it. Then, I’m going to Wrigley Field, the juices start flowing, feels good. They put me on the big screen, the crowd acknowledges that, and I leave Wrigley feeling nothing and feeling great. That would last a long time,” Sandberg said.
[WATCH: Full Ryne Sandberg Interview]
The former second baseman provided an update on how he’s feeling after the unfortunate announcement in December that his cancer is back. However, Sandberg knew that being around the fans would provide an extra boost as he continues through his treatments.
“I’m feeling good. I’m getting my treatments, doing my thing and things are working,” Sandberg said. “I was happy to be here in full spirits and on the go. The fans are awesome and once again, I’m getting energized and got the juices flowing.”
With Spring Training right around the corner, Sandberg is ready to get to Mesa and see the 2025 Cubs in action.
With the moves made this offseason, he’s intrigued to see how the season plays out and believes that these rosters changes are pushing the team in a positive direction.
“I think it’s a good mix of last year’s team – which was knocking at the door in some regards on offense, should be a good defensive team once again – but to add some arms, Tucker’s a big bat right there, I’m excited about the changes and the mix we’ll have going into Spring Training,” Sandberg said.