They were talking about the Cubs shortstop, Ivan DeJesus and the Phillies shortstop, Larry Bowa. And a rookie – Some rookie – he was elected to the Hall of Fame in 2005. His name was Ryne Sandberg. The Tribune described the throw-in, Sandberg as “a 22-year-old middle infielder with good speed but a light bat.” Had the Cubs’ general manager Dallas Green not managed to steal Sandberg, this would have been an even deal. Both DeJesus and Bowa played three seasons with their new clubs. Bowa hit .246 for the Cubs and DeJesus batted .249 for the Phillies.
Yeah sure, light bat. For 10 years running (1984-1993) he made the National League All Star Team, and even though he won nine consecutive Golden Gloves as the Cubs’ second baseman, he earned his spot on the All Star Teams with his bat. Sandberg’s batting average during those 10 seasons was .296. He also averaged 23 home runs along with 28 doubles and six triples, not bad for a slick fielding infielder.