Chicago Cubs: A history of notable Home Run Derby performances

Chicago Cubs: 1990 – Ryne Sandberg defeats Mark McGwire, Matt Williams

In the Chinese Zodiac, the year 1990, coincidentally the same year I was born, is known as the “Year of the Horse.” Well, if you’re a Cubs fan, you may remember it slightly differently. Sandberg set career highs in many areas as it was a year to remember for “Ryno.”

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Sandberg mashed 40 home runs while simultaneously driving in 100 runs and swiping 25 bags. He finished the year with a .306 average, striking out at just a 12.4 percent rate, and posting a 142 wRC+.

The All-Star Game was held at Wrigley Field in 1990. Hall of Famer and Cubs ‘GOAT’ Ernie Banks threw out the ceremonial first pitch. Sandberg represented the hometown team in the derby, with other big names trying to stake their claim as the home run king.

Similar to the derby of 1987, there were very few home runs hit. Only five balls flew over the wall that day, with many guys failing to hit at least one. Five of the eight players dropped goose eggs. Sandberg defeated Mark McGwire and Matt Williams and legendary Cubs fan and face Bill Murray emceed the fun. Despite the lack of long balls, it was a fun day to remember in Wrigley.