The New York Yankees are deeply saddened by the passing of Rickey Henderson on Friday, December 20, at the age of 65.
Henderson, widely regarded as one of the most dynamic players in baseball history, was acquired by the Yankees from the Oakland Athletics on December 5, 1984, in exchange for outfielder Stan Javier and pitchers Tim Birtsas, Jay Howell, Eric Plunk, and Jose Rijo. Over his four and a half seasons with the Yankees, Henderson made a lasting impact, boasting a .288 batting average (663 hits in 2,302 at-bats), 513 runs, 119 doubles, 16 triples, 78 home runs, 255 RBIs, 326 stolen bases, and a .395 on-base percentage. He was a four-time All-Star in pinstripes, earned a Silver Slugger Award in 1985, and led the Major Leagues in runs scored in 1985 (146) and 1986 (130). He also set the franchise record for stolen bases in a single season three times, including 93 in 1988, 87 in 1986, and 80 in 1985. Henderson’s 326 career steals as a Yankee rank second in team history, behind only Derek Jeter’s 358. His 24 leadoff home runs with the Yankees were surpassed only by Jeter’s 29. Henderson was traded back to the Athletics on June 21, 1989.
Statement from the New York Yankees:
“Rickey Henderson was an all-time great who captivated audiences with his electrifying presence both at the plate and on the basepaths. His charisma and exceptional talent made him a player who demanded attention every time he stepped onto the field. Though his time with us was brief, Rickey left an undeniable mark on the Yankees’ history and entertained us with his remarkable abilities, no-nonsense attitude, and unique showmanship. We will greatly miss Rickey and extend our deepest condolences to his wife, Pamela, daughters Angela, Adrianna, and Alexis, and his entire family and loved ones.”
Statement from Don Mattingly (Yankees Teammate, 1985-1989):
“Rickey was the best player I ever played with. He had the ability to change the outcome of any game in countless ways. Thinking about him always brings a smile to my face. I’ll miss my friend.”
Statement from Ron Guidry (Yankees Teammate, 1985-1988):
“When we get older, sitting around talking about our baseball careers, Rickey will always be a part of those stories. He was simply incredible to watch. He combined the best of outfielders, base stealers, and home run hitters into one player. The things Rickey did on the field were what the rest of us could only dream of.”
- Rickey Henderson
Statement from Willie Randolph (Yankees Teammate, 1985-1988):
“People always ask me about the best player I’ve played with, and I’ve had the honor of playing alongside many incredible players. But pound for pound, Rickey Henderson was the greatest. He had so many talents that could change the course of a game. I’ll always treasure the memories I have with him. He was a special man.”
Statement from Buck Showalter (Coached Rickey in Yankees Spring Training, Played Against Him in the Minors):
“I faced Rickey when he was with Jersey City in 1978, and even then, he was a remarkable player. He didn’t hit a home run that season, but he batted .310 in 133 games. People don’t realize how dedicated Rickey was to becoming the best. He was ahead of his time when it came to conditioning and nutrition. In my opinion, he was the best leadoff hitter to ever play the game.
He was in my first big league camp, and I’ll never forget throwing to him during batting practice. His strike zone was incredibly small, and his running was unlike anything I’d ever seen—fluid yet powerful. Rickey had a great sense of humor and made me feel comfortable right away. It’s hard to believe he’s gone. He was truly one of a kind.”
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