It’s a heavy day in the baseball world. Rickey Henderson, the all-time stolen bases king, has sadly passed away at age 65.
TMZ reports that before his passing on December 20, he was hospitalized with pneumonia in Oakland.
Rickey was more than just a player; he was a force of nature. Over his 25-year career, he donned the jersey for nine different MLB teams, but it was with the Oakland Athletics where he truly made his mark, having four separate stints with the team. Fellow Hall of Famer Dave Winfield, who had the honor of sharing a locker room with Rickey on the New York Yankees, took to Instagram to express his sadness. He wrote, “I still cannot believe I’ve lost one of my favorite teammates and great friend Rickey Henderson. Rest in peace.”
Rickey wasn’t just a player; he was a game-changer. Widely celebrated as the greatest leadoff hitter and baserunner in MLB history, he holds the career records for stolen bases, runs, unintentional walks, and leadoff home runs. The Chicago native didn’t just play the game; he dominated it. In 1990, he snagged the American League MVP, and his accolades include being a 10-time All-Star, a two-time World Series champ, and a three-time Silver Slugger Award winner. He led the American League in stolen bases 12 times and became the only player in AL history to steal 100 bases in a season. That’s legendary status right there.
Speaking numbers: Rickey’s record of 1,406 career steals is a staggering 50% more than Lou Brock, who sits in second place with 938. That’s dominance, plain and simple.
As we reflect on Rickey’s incredible journey, it’s clear he wasn’t just a player; he was a pioneer who changed the way the game is played. His impact will forever be felt, not just in the stats but in the hearts of fans and fellow great players.
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