Cubs News: Ryne Sandberg now smokes marijuana almost every day

So, apparently Cubs legend Ryne Sandberg is a big weed guy now. There’s something I never thought I’d write. But with marijuana going mainstream more and more by the day, the Hall of Fame second baseman is now a spokesperson for the Chicago-based Verilife.

"“I really didn’t know anything about it, I didn’t have any interest in it,” Sandberg told the Chicago Tribune. “Now it’s every day sometimes, as I’m looking for something to take the edge off.”"

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Now for a lot folks, Sandberg is about as Americana as they come. He anchored the North Siders for the better part of two decades, winning National League MVP during the unforgettable 1984 season after he led the league with 114 runs and 19 triples while batting .314/.367/.520. So to see him openly endorsing marijuana might catch you off-guard. But it shouldn’t.

Marijuana is rapidly growing more accepted in America. Every single ballot initiative that either legalized weed or decriminalized its use passed last fall during the election. That’s right. Every single one. According to CNBC, “15 states — along with the District of Columbia — have legalized marijuana for adult recreational use. Thirty-six states permit medical use of the drug.”

Cubs: More Americans than ever support marijuana legalization

The industry has the potential to be a major financial force in years to come. But from my point of view, this goes way beyond dollars and cents. This is a sign of progress for the country, as a whole. The effects of the opioid epidemic will be felt for decades to come, so providing an alternative to individuals while allowing a constantly pressured and anxious general public – have a safe alternative to opioids or alcohol is an absolute win.

According to Pew Research Center, a staggering 91 percent of American adults support the legalization of marijuana to some degree. Fewer than one in 10 think the drug should be banned for adult usage altogether.

So while I never thought I’d see Ryno as the face of a marijuana company, here we are. And, well, I’m here for it.