Chicago Cubs retire Ryne Sandberg's number 23

Major League Baseball's Chicago Cubs retired Ryne Sandberg's number 23 jersey on Sunday, in an emotional ceremony prior to the afternoon's game at Wrigley Field. The number was worn by Sandberg throughout his 15 seasons with the team.

The second baseman, inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY, last month, is the fourth Chicago Cub to have his number retired. Ernie Banks, Ron Santo and Billy Williams are the only ones to have previously received the honour.

Sandberg, a 10-time baseball All-Star, was given a framed replica jersey and received a standing ovation from the crowd.

Prior to the ceremony, Sandberg recalled the legends who went before him, saying "We'll see how the day goes. I was fortunate enough to be there for Ernie and Billy and Ron. I was on the field for all those ceremonies -- not even thinking that I would have a day come like today. Being in their company and joining them means everything to me."

Sandberg was a nine-time Gold Glove winner, flourishing in Chicago after being traded from Philadelphia in January 1982. He ranks third on the Chicago Cubs team in all-time runs scored (1,316), doubles (403), and extra-base hits (761).

The city has clearly been an important element of his career and his life. "I've been proud to be a lifelong Chicago Cub and still be with the Cubs," he said. "That's always been important to me and I think it's always been special. It's allowed me to have Chicago as a home; my family considers Chicago a home. There's not too many guys that spend their whole career with one team and I think it's very fortunate and a blessing for me."