Sandberg A Part-Timer

Indications that two of the most superlative careers of the past 15 years are nearing a close came last week with New York Yankees third baseman Wade Boggs and Chicago Cubs second baseman Ryne Sandberg becoming part-time players.

In both cases, the managers did not say these former All-Stars were reduced to backups, but the days have passed since they were automatic names in the lineup.

Cubs manager Jim Riggleman said Sandberg’s “role has changed,” that he will share second base with Shawon Dunston. The North Central High graduate needs to play in 130 games for a $3 million option for 1998 to kick in.