Rickey Henderson, MLB Hall of Famer and All-Time Stolen Bases Leader, Passes Away at 65

Rickey Henderson, a legendary Major League Baseball (MLB) Hall of Famer and the league's all-time leader in stolen bases, passed away at the age of 65, MLB announced Saturday. Known as the "Man of Steal," Henderson revolutionized the art of base stealing and was celebrated as one of the greatest leadoff hitters in the history of baseball.

MLB Commissioner Robert Manfred paid tribute to Henderson in a heartfelt statement, calling him "the gold standard of base stealing and leadoff hitting." Manfred added, "Rickey was one of the most accomplished and beloved Athletics of all time.

He epitomized speed, power, and entertainment, 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."

Henderson, who would have turned 66 on Christmas Day, leaves behind a remarkable legacy. No cause of death has been announced. His wife, Pamela Henderson, released a statement through the Oakland Athletics, describing her husband as "a devoted son, dad, friend, grandfather, brother, uncle, and a truly humble soul." She also expressed gratitude to MLB, the Oakland A’s, and the medical staff at UCSF for their care and compassion during Henderson’s final days.

Born in Chicago and raised in Oakland, Henderson became one of the most electrifying players in MLB history. Over a 25-year career that spanned nine teams, Henderson recorded 2,055 hits, 297 home runs, and 1,115 RBIs.

His 1,406 stolen bases and 2,295 career runs remain unbroken Major League records. He was also a 10-time All-Star and won the American League MVP in 1990 while playing for the Oakland Athletics.

Henderson played the majority of his career — 14 years over four stints — with the Athletics. He also spent five years with the New York Yankees and two with the New York Mets, among other teams including the San Diego Padres, Toronto Blue Jays, Anaheim Angels, Seattle Mariners, Boston Red Sox, and Los Angeles Dodgers.

His career highlights include two World Series championships: one with Oakland in 1989 and another with Toronto in 1993.

Off the field, Henderson was known for his vibrant personality and unshakeable confidence, traits that made him a fan favorite.

He retired as one of the most decorated players in MLB history and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown on his first ballot in 2009. Just six days after his induction, the Oakland A’s retired his jersey number, honoring his unparalleled contributions to the team and the sport.

Henderson's passing marks the end of an era for baseball fans. His combination of speed, power, and showmanship set him apart as a player who not only excelled on the field but also redefined the game.

Tributes continue to pour in from fans, teammates, and baseball organizations, celebrating the legacy of a player whose records and impact on the game will endure for generations.