Oakland Athletics baseball legend Rickey Henderson passed away at the age of 65, as confirmed by his family and the team on Saturday. His death comes just days ahead of his birthday on December 25.
Rickey Henderson was celebrated not only as a phenomenal player but also as a devoted family man. In a heartfelt statement, his wife, Pamela, and their daughters described him as a “legend on and off the field” who lived with integrity and a deep love for baseball. “Now, Rickey is at peace with the Lord, cherishing the extraordinary moments and achievements he leaves behind,” they added.
Henderson, known for his record-setting career, held the all-time record for stolen bases with 1,406 and is considered one of the best leadoff hitters in Major League Baseball history. He began his journey in baseball after turning down multiple football scholarships to join the A’s in 1976. Wearing the green and gold, he made his mark first in 1980 by breaking the American League stolen base record previously held by Ty Cobb, stealing 100 bases in his rookie season. His remarkable 130 steals in 1982 set a new Major League record, surpassing Lou Brock’s previous record of 118.
Throughout his illustrious 25-year career, Henderson played for nine teams, including the A’s, New York Yankees, and Toronto Blue Jays. He was a ten-time All-Star and won the American League MVP Award in 1990, leading the league in several categories including runs scored and on-base percentage. He finished his career with a .279 batting average, 3,055 hits, and 297 home runs, making him a prominent figure in baseball.
In 2009, he was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame, acknowledging his significant contributions to the sport, and he was also inducted into the Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame in 2020. The Oakland Athletics honored him by naming their diamond “Rickey Henderson Field,” and he was remembered as a mentor and friend to many in the baseball community.
As the Bay Area mourns the loss of this baseball icon, fans are gathering at the Coliseum to pay their respects and celebrate Henderson’s legacy, which has left an indelible mark on generations of baseball enthusiasts. His influence on the sport and the community he cherished will continue to be felt long after his passing.
In summary, while the loss of Rickey Henderson is deeply felt across the baseball community and beyond, it serves as a reminder of the joy and excitement he brought to the game. As fans and family reflect on his life, there is hope that his legacy will inspire future generations of players and fans alike.