Ryne Sandberg's success in the 1980's change the Chicago Cubs franchise

As a kid in the mid-1970's, you would take the EL to Wrigley Field and see a half empty old stadium without lights. The close to success 1969-1972 Cubs era was over and the Cubs really were the lovable losers. On some weekday games, they would close the Upper Deck and tell you to sit where you want.

Ryne Sandberg's emergence as a star helped the 1984 Cubs see post season baseball for the first time since 1945! The Cubs became America's team with their availability on WGN via cable TV all around the nation. This helped the Cubs to finally install lights in 1988 and see a second playoff appearance in 1989.

Ryne both played baseball and handled his cancer ordeal with total class. RIP Ryno! You will be missed.

The passage of time as we age just sucks.