Ottawa – Hall of Famer Rickey Henderson, considered the greatest leadoff hitter in history and MLB’s all-time leader in stolen bases, leadoff home runs and runs scored, has passed away. He was 65.
“For multiple generations of baseball fans, Rickey Henderson was the gold standard of base stealing and leadoff hitting,” Commissioner Rob Manfred said in a statement. “Rickey was one of the most accomplished and beloved Athletics of all-time. He also made an impact with many other Clubs during a quarter-century career like no other. He epitomized speed, power and entertainment in setting the tone at the top of the lineup. When we considered new rules for the game in recent years, we had the era of Rickey Henderson in mind.
“Rickey earned universal respect, admiration and awe from sports fans. On behalf of Major League Baseball, I send my deepest condolences to Rickey’s family, his friends and former teammates, A’s fans and baseball fans everywhere.”
“It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of my husband, Rickey Henderson. A legend on and off the field, Rickey was a devoted son, dad, friend, grandfather, brother, uncle, and a truly humble soul,” Pamela Henderson said in a statement. “Rickey lived his life with integrity, and his love for baseball was paramount. Now, Rickey is at peace with the Lord, cherishing the extraordinary moments and achievements he leaves behind.”
Henderson played for nine teams in a 25-year career that included the 1990 AL MVP Award, 10 All-Star selections, two World Series titles, three Silver Slugger Awards, one Gold Glove Award and the 1989 ALCS MVP Award. He was elected to the Hall of Fame in 2009, his first year of eligibility, appearing on 94.8 percent of ballots.
“Rickey Henderson is one of the greatest baseball players of all time,” the A’s said in a statement. “His on-field accomplishments speak for themselves, and his records will forever stand atop baseball history. He was undoubtedly the most legendary player in Oakland history and made an indelible mark on generations of A’s fans over his 14 seasons wearing the Green and Gold.
“For those who knew him personally, Rickey was much more than a franchise icon and a Baseball Hall of Famer. He was a friend and mentor to every player, coach, and employee who passed through the Oakland Coliseum or played a game on the field that came to bear his name.
“We are shocked and heartbroken by his passing. His loss will be felt not only by A’s fans but also by baseball fans around the world. The entire A’s organization sends its sincere condolences to Rickey’s family and loved ones at this time.”
Source: https://www.mlb.com/bluejays/news/