CHICAGO (WLS) — Saturday was the second year for Cubs for a Cure, but this time the Chicago Cubs are helping to fight cancer with their own heavy hearts.
Earlier this week, Cubs legend Ryne Sandberg died after a battle with cancer.
The Cubs honored their friend while trying to help all those who are fighting now.
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The tributes have been pouring in all week at Wrigley Field, showing how much “Ryno” meant to the fanbase.
The Cubs continue to honor him in many ways while also pushing their fundraising goals in the fight against cancer.
The number 23 was just about everywhere at Wrigley on Saturday, honoring Sandberg. The Cubs players all rocked his retired number as the organization rallied together to raise money for cancer research.
“We knew this was gonna be the day to try to raise a lot of money for cancer research, and losing Ryne this week kind of brought the two forces together,” said Crane Kenney, Cubs president of business operations.
The Cubs said 100% of the funds raised are going to research, with the organization setting a goal of $1 million.
READ MORE | Chicago Cubs Hall of Famer Ryne Sandberg dies after cancer battle
The team also honored some cancer survivors before the game, creating special memories for people like Robbie Crowell. Crowell is now 35 years old, but he battled cancer until he was 9. He got to throw out the first pitch and met his favorite player, Pete Crow-Armstrong.
“Oh my God, it was amazing,” Crowell said. “This has been an opportunity of a lifetime that I never think would happen. It’s amazing.”
All of it made for a special atmosphere as people remembered how much Sandberg means to the fanbase.
“Ryno was one of our Mt. Rushmore guys,” Kenney said. “He lived in Chicago. So much like Ernie banks and Ron Santo. He was here all the time.”
It was a special day all around at the ballpark.
“Obviously teammates and great friends,” former teammate Jody Davis said. “Ryno and I were roommates his rookie year, and we’d go fishing together. We lived in the same subdivision. Just a genuine, great friend.”
As of Saturday afternoon, the Cubs said they have raised at least $1.5 million, surpassing the fundraising goal. Donations are still being taken.
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