Hall of Famer and all-time MLB stolen base leader Rickey Henderson died Friday night at age 65, his family announced Saturday.
Henderson swiped 1,406 bases during his 25-season career that spanned four decades. He played for nine teams after beginning his MLB career in 1979 with the Oakland A’s. Henderson played for both New York teams, the Yankees (1985-89) and the Mets (1999-2000).
The New York sports world paused on Saturday to remember their friend and teammate, posting on social media:
Hall of Famer and former Yankee teammate Dave Winfield wrote on Instagram: “I still cannot believe I’ve lost one of my favorite teammates and great friend Rickey Henderson. Rest in peace.“
“It was an honor to be in the same uniform with Rickey Henderson. He was the most entertaining and dynamic player I ever saw. R.I.P. Rickey U were the Greatest!” Former Mets Manager Bobby Valentine wrote on social media.
Former Mets teammate and fellow Hall of Famer Mike Piazza posted on X, formerly Twitter: “Rickey Henderson was a dream to hit behind as teammate and a nightmare for a catcher as an opponent. He was one of the most generous, hysterical and gracious human beings..He will be sorely missed..Prayers for his soul and family.”
Longtime Mets radio voice Howie Rose posted on X: “My favorite Rickey Henderson story. Remember when players wrote the uniform number of a traded or released teammate on their caps? One time, Rickey had 24 on his cap. I asked him to whom that was a tribute. He said “That’s Rickey’s number. It’s a tribute to Rickey!” RIP.”
