Jan. 15--Less than one year after quitting as manager of the Phillies, Hall of Fame second baseman Ryne Sandberg is returning to the Cubs organization.
The return of Sandberg, 56, is expected to be announced Friday during the Cubs Convention opening ceremony at the Sheraton Grand Chicago. After spending four seasons as a minor-league manager but not being considered to manage the Cubs, Sandberg quit the organization and quickly joined the Phillies, where he eventually managed from August 2013 until resigning last June.
During his minor-league managing stint with the Cubs, Sandberg received praise from players such as Darwin Barney and scouts outside the organization for his teaching skills. But his new duties as an ambassador allow him plenty of freedom in future years, according to a source.
Sandberg was a 10-time National League All-Star who won nine Gold Glove awards for his superb defense at second base.
Sold on center field: Ace Jake Arrieta provided the latest endorsement of Jason Heyward, who is moving to center field after spending six seasons as a right fielder.
"(Heyward) plays incredible defense in the outfield," Arrieta said. "That's something for me. I understand with my stuff, I can pitch to contact knowing I have a guy like that out there behind me."
Manager Joe Maddon has no qualms about Heyward's transition, remembering Jim Edmonds made a similar transition in the Angels' organization before becoming an eight-time Gold Glove center fielder with the Angels and Cardinals.
Sneak peek: There are tentative plans this weekend for some of the Cubs' players to take a tour of their new and spacious clubhouse, which remains under construction but is scheduled to be completed before the April 11 home opener.
