Ryne Sandberg, the legendary Major League Baseball (MLB) Hall of Famer known as “Ryno,” had a remarkable career as a second baseman, primarily with the Chicago Cubs. While his professional achievements, like the iconic “Sandberg Game” in 1984, are well-documented, his personal life has also drawn interest, particularly regarding his first marriage. So, who was Ryne Sandberg’s first wife? Let’s dive into the details.
Ryne Sandberg’s First Wife: Cindy White
Ryne Sandberg’s first wife was Cindy White. The couple were high school sweethearts, having met during their teenage years in Spokane, Washington, where Sandberg attended North Central High School. Their relationship blossomed early, and they tied the knot in 1979, the same year Sandberg began his professional baseball career after being drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies. This marriage coincided with the start of his journey in the minor leagues, marking a significant period in both his personal and professional life.
Life Together and Family
Ryne and Cindy Sandberg’s marriage lasted for 16 years, from 1979 until their divorce in July 1995. During this time, they welcomed two children, Justin and Lindsey. Sandberg was deeply devoted to his children, and his love for them played a significant role in his life decisions, including his surprising retirement from baseball in 1994. According to reports, Sandberg’s desire to prioritize his family, particularly his children, was a key factor in his decision to step away from the game at the peak of his career.
Challenges and Divorce
The marriage between Ryne and Cindy faced challenges, particularly in the early 1990s. Rumors of personal turmoil, including alleged affairs, surfaced in the media, contributing to speculation about Sandberg’s abrupt retirement in 1994. While these rumors were never fully substantiated, they added strain to their relationship. Cindy filed for divorce in December 1993, and although the couple briefly reconciled, she filed again shortly after Sandberg’s retirement announcement on June 13, 1994. The divorce was finalized in July 1995, marking the end of their 16-year marriage.
In a 1995 interview, Cindy addressed the rumors and gossip surrounding their split, expressing her desire to set the record straight. She emphasized her perspective as the ex-wife of a baseball star and highlighted the challenges of their high-profile life. Despite the divorce, Cindy spoke positively about her children and her gratitude for their shared history.
Ryne Sandberg’s Life After the Divorce
Following the divorce, Ryne Sandberg married Margaret Koehnemann in August 1995, just a month after his divorce from Cindy was finalized. Margaret brought three children from a previous marriage—B.R., Adriane, and Steven—into their blended family, and together, Ryne and Margaret raised five children. The couple settled in Lake Bluff, Illinois, where Sandberg remained active in the community, including supporting the Lake Bluff Youth Baseball Association.
Sandberg’s return to baseball in 1996 was partly influenced by his new marriage and a renewed passion for the game. With Margaret’s support, he rejoined the Chicago Cubs for the 1996 and 1997 seasons, finishing his career on a high note before retiring permanently in 1997. His Hall of Fame induction in 2005 and the retirement of his number 23 by the Cubs cemented his legacy as one of baseball’s greatest second basemen.
Cindy White’s Life Post-Divorce
After the divorce, Cindy White maintained a relatively low profile. She focused on raising Justin and Lindsey, who remained close to their father. In court proceedings in 1996, Cindy expressed concerns about the children’s involvement in Sandberg’s baseball life, preferring they maintain their regular activities rather than travelling to games. Despite their differences, both Ryne and Cindy prioritized their children’s well-being.