Speaking to David Haugh and Zach Zaidman on WSCR-AM The Score this morning, Bruce Levine mentioned a previously unreported story that Ryne Sandberg had requested a trade to the Los Angeles Dodgers. The hosts had asked Bruce about the recent news about Adam Laroche’s sudden retirement, and if anything similar had ever happened.
Bruce went on to tell the story about the 1994 season where Chicago Cubs great, Ryne Sandberg had requested a trade. During the season, Sandberg had been going through well documented issues with his wife, troubles which many claim caused him so much worry his performance suffered because of it.
The off-field issues came to the point where Sandberg asked then GM Larry Hines to trade him to the Dodgers so he (Ryne) could be around his children more. Reluctant to trade him, Ryno decided to retire weeks later.
I’ve said it a million times, the money the athletes make do not separate them from the same emotional ties we all have. Family, friends, pets, whatever it might be, they are our reasons to succeed, and we will do whatever is necessary to do what’s best for those we hold nearest to our hearts.
