Rickey Henderson, the greatest Oakland A’s player of all time and the MLB leader in stolen bases and runs, died on Friday just days before his 66th birthday.
Henderson’s on-field accomplishments earned him a spot in the Hall of Fame and his larger-than-life personality left an indelible mark on teammates, coaches and others around the game of baseball.
The response to his death reflected the towering figure he cut throughout sports. Here are a few of the most noteworthy reactions to Henderson’s passing:
Wife Pamela Henderson and his daughters
“A legend on and off the field, Rickey was a devoted son, dad, friend, grandfather, brother, uncle, and a truly humble soul. 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.”
Former A’s star Jose Canseco
“I’m heartbroken and devastated. Rickey Henderson was an incredibly talented player but an even better human. I’ll never forget all the incredible memories we created together. Memories I’ll never forget. Rest easy my friend.”
Former A’s ace Dave Stewart
“I can’t explain what someone who was present in every memory, childhood to today, means to me or what it means to cope with having no more tomorrows alongside him. Rickey Henderson was the best ball player many know, but that is nothing in comparison to the brother he is to me.”
MLB Players Association executive director Tony Clark
“He inspired future generations with his speed, aggressiveness and trademark neon green batting gloves. Off the field, he never ceased to entertain with his colorful quotes and references to himself in the third person. He was an American original, in every sense of the term.”
Former A’s teammate Mitchell Page
“It wasn’t until I saw Rickey that I understood what baseball was about. Rickey Henderson is a run, man. That’s it. When you see Rickey Henderson, I don’t care when, the score’s already 1-0. If he’s with you, that’s great. If he’s not, you won’t like it.”
Former Yankees teammate Dave Winfield
“He was one of the best players that I ever played with and obviously the best leadoff hitter in baseball.”
A’s senior adviser Billy Beane
“He was the greatest Oakland A of all time and will deservedly be remembered that way by fans of baseball across the world. His impact on the A’s, on Oakland, and on baseball is immeasurable, as he continued to affect the lives and careers of A’s players and staff until the very end.”
Former A’s GM and president Sandy Alderson
“I traded Rickey Henderson twice and brought him back more times than that. He was the best player I ever saw play.
“He did it all — hit, hit for power, stole bases, and defended — and he did it with a flair that enthused his fans and infuriated his opponents. But everyone was amused by his personality, style, and third-person references to himself. He was unique in many ways.
“Rickey stories are legion, legendary, and mostly true. But behind his reputation as self-absorbed was a wonderful, kind human being who loved kids. His true character became more evident over time. Nine different teams, one unforgettable player. Sandy gonna miss Rickey.”
Former A’s teammate and Hall of Famer Dennis Eckersley
“We were two Bay Area boys. I was proud to play with him. He was the greatest player I ever played with. I cherished our recent times together both in Cooperstown and at the Oakland Coliseum. My condolences to his family.”
Former A’s teammate AJ Hinch
“Being teammates with him my rookie year was incredible. The banter was real. The wisdom was endless. I was lucky enough to wear #23 next to his #24 virtually every day. So many stories coming out of that season (1998). Gonna miss you my man.”
Former Mets teammate Mike Piazza
“Rickey Henderson was a dream to hit behind as a 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.”
Negro Leagues Baseball Museum president Bob Kendrick
“Saddened by the passing of our friend, Rickey Henderson, the greatest leadoff hitter in MLB history! Was proud to induct him into our Hall of Game in 2015 along with Fergie Jenkins, Ozzie Smith and the late Luis Tiant. Condolences to his family, friends and legion of fans!” —
Former A’s catcher Jonathan Lucroy
“During my time with the Athletics he had his locker right next to mine. He would come in almost every day and play cards with the boys. Class act and great dude. I used to mess with him by saying that he was lucky I wasn’t catching when he was trying to steal. I’d have thrown him out. Probably not true but he would say, naw man you would have no chance lol. I also loved talking hitting with him. He was a really smart player. He was a good guy and loved being around the players. Baseball lost a good one today. Legendary player.”
Former A’s outfielder Josh Reddick
“I’m heartbroken at the news about the legend Rickey Henderson. To be able to be taught by someone I idolized as a kid, it meant so much that he took time to teach so many of us.”
Warriors coach Steve Kerr
“Bay Area legend, Oakland Tech. Obviously, 14 years with the A’s. World Series champ. One of the all-time great baseball players. I think one of the all-time great athletes in the history of our country. Just stunning athleticism and a fun baseball player to watch and beloved in the Bay.”
The Associated Press contributed to this story.
