Rickey Nelson Henley Henderson
(“Man of Steal”)
(December 25, 1958 – December 20, 2024)
MLB10-time All-Star and the all-time stolen base leader
Born: 1958, Chicago, IL
Died: December 20, 2024 (age 65 years), UCSF Medical Center, San Francisco, CA
Dates joined: 2003 (Los Angeles Dodgers)
Hall of fame induction: 2009
Descendants: Alexis Henderson, Adrianna Henderson, Angela Henderson
Awards: American League Most Valuable Player Award
Bats: Right-handed
Rickey Henderson was an American professional baseball player celebrated as one of the greatest leadoff hitters and base runners in Major League Baseball (MLB) history. Spanning an illustrious 25-year career from 1979 to 2003, Henderson played for nine teams, most notably returning to the Oakland Athletics four times. He holds MLB records for career stolen bases, runs scored, unintentional walks, and leadoff home runs. By the conclusion of his career, Henderson had cemented his status as a 10-time All-Star and one of the sport’s most prolific hitters and base-stealers. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2009 on his first ballot.
Henderson set a single-season stolen base record with 130 steals in 1982 and remains the only American League player to achieve three 100-steal seasons (1980, 1982, 1983). His unparalleled career total of 1,406 stolen bases far exceeded the previous record of 938 held by Lou Brock. Among his many achievements, Henderson led the league in stolen bases 12 times and in runs scored on five occasions. His versatility and dominance extended beyond base-stealing; he was named the American League MVP in 1990 and contributed to two World Series victories, with the 1989 Oakland Athletics and the 1993 Toronto Blue Jays.
Known for his high on-base percentage, speed, power, and adaptability, Henderson consistently ranked among MLB’s leaders in numerous statistical categories. His batting stance, characterized by an exaggerated crouch, minimized his strike zone while maintaining power and precision. Off the field, Henderson was equally known for his exuberant personality, memorable quotes, and unyielding passion for baseball. Statisticians and analysts often remarked on his unique blend of skills, with some suggesting that splitting his accomplishments could still yield two Hall of Fame-worthy careers.
Born in Chicago on December 25, 1958, Henderson was delivered in the back seat of a car en route to the hospital—a fitting introduction for someone destined for speed. Raised initially in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, he later moved to Oakland, California, where he excelled in multiple sports during high school. An All-American running back, he turned down football scholarships to focus on baseball, a decision influenced by his mother’s advice about the longevity of athletic careers.
Drafted by the Oakland Athletics in the fourth round of the 1976 MLB Draft, Henderson made his professional debut in 1979. By 1980, he was rewriting records, setting franchise and league marks for stolen bases and showcasing his talent as a dynamic leadoff hitter. Throughout his career, Henderson demonstrated an unmatched ability to impact games, often altering the course of play with his base-running acumen.
Henderson’s competitive spirit and longevity allowed him to achieve milestones well into his 40s. In 1991, he surpassed Brock’s career stolen base record, famously declaring himself “the greatest.” His impact transcended statistics, as he inspired future generations of players and captivated fans with his charisma and distinctive style of play. Even as his career spanned decades, Henderson’s enthusiasm and dedication never waned, solidifying his legacy as one of the game’s most influential and enduring figures.
Hall of Fame Induction and Legacy
Henderson’s eligibility for the Hall of Fame was unaffected by his delayed retirement status. He was inducted on his first ballot in 2009, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players in MLB history. Known for his confidence and love for the game, Henderson remarked during his induction press conference that he believed he could still outperform many current players. His record-setting accomplishments and infectious enthusiasm continued to inspire fans and players alike.
The Oakland Athletics honored Henderson with “Rickey Henderson Bobblehead Day” in 2011, celebrating the 20th anniversary of his record-breaking stolen base. True to his style, he requested the bobbleheads include a touch of dirt, reflecting his dedication to playing the game with authenticity and effort.
Coaching Career
Henderson transitioned into coaching following his playing career. In 2006, the New York Mets hired him as a special instructor, where he focused on hitting and base-stealing techniques. His guidance had a notable impact on players such as José Reyes, who credited Henderson with significant improvements in his game. In July 2007, Henderson was promoted to first base coach for the Mets, a role he held until the end of the season.
Henderson later joined the Oakland Athletics as a special instructor during spring training sessions. In 2010, he worked closely with players like Rajai Davis and Coco Crisp, helping to refine their base-stealing skills and defensive techniques. His commitment to mentoring young players highlighted his lasting passion for the sport.
In 1983, Ricky Henderson married Pamela, his high school sweetheart, and together they built a family, raising three children. On December 20, 2024, just five days shy of his 66th birthday, Henderson passed away at the University of California, San Francisco Medical Center after battling pneumonia. His death marked a somber moment for the sports world and those who cherished him as a family man, athlete, and icon.
Major Awards and Honors: Chronological Order
1980
- American League (AL) All-Star Game Selection (First Appearance)
1981
- AL All-Star Game Selection
- AL Silver Slugger Award (Outfield)
1982
- AL All-Star Game Selection
1983
- AL All-Star Game Selection
1984
- AL All-Star Game Selection
1985
- AL All-Star Game Selection
- AL Silver Slugger Award (Outfield)
1986
- AL All-Star Game Selection
1988
- AL All-Star Game Selection
1989
- AL All-Star Game Selection
- AL Championship Series Most Valuable Player (ALCS MVP)
1990
- AL All-Star Game Selection
- AL Most Valuable Player (MVP) Award
- AL Silver Slugger Award (Outfield)
1991
- AL All-Star Game Selection
1998
- National League (NL) Comeback Player of the Year Award
1999
- AL All-Star Game Selection
2001
- MLB All-Time Career Runs Scored Record (2,246th run)
2003
- MLB All-Time Career Stolen Base Record (1,406th stolen base)
2009
- Induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame (First Ballot)
- Oakland Athletics Retire #24 Jersey
2011
- Oakland Athletics Celebrate 20th Anniversary of Stolen Base Record with “Rickey Henderson Bobblehead Day”
