The baseball world is mourning the loss of a true icon, Rickey Henderson, fondly remembered as the “Man of Steal.” Henderson, a revered Hall of Famer, passed away on December 20. The legendary player had been battling pneumonia and was receiving care at a hospital in Oakland when he died at the age of 65.

Henderson’s family shared the sorrowful news on his former team, the Oakland Athletics’, official Instagram account. Their message conveyed the depth of their grief and extolled Henderson’s unwavering passion for baseball.

In the words of his family, “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.”

His wife, Pamela, alongside their daughters, thanked their friends, fans, and the MLB community for the overwhelming support they have received during this incredibly difficult time. They also requested privacy as they adjust to life without their beloved Rickey.

The Oakland Athletics, the team where Henderson spent a major portion of his career, offered an emotional tribute, describing him as the “most legendary player in Oakland history.” They celebrated his numerous records and his role as a mentor, highlighting his lasting influence on the generations that came after him.

Throughout his career from 1979 to 2003, Rickey Henderson became a beacon of excellence, leaving behind an unmatched legacy. Known for his prowess on the bases, Henderson holds Major League Baseball records for stolen bases, with 1,406, and runs scored, amounting to 2,295. With 3,055 hits and 297 home runs over his career, he was a 10-time All-Star and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2009.

As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in across social media, particularly on platforms like X, formerly known as Twitter. Fox Sports paid homage to his remarkable career, reflecting on his unparalleled achievements on the field.

The New York Yankees, another team Henderson had played for, praised him as one of the most “magnetic” players in the history of the sport, effortlessly drawing in fans, teammates, and adversaries.

Jose Canseco, a former teammate from the Athletics, also expressed his sorrow on X, hailing Henderson as an “incredibly talented player” and reminiscing with a nostalgic photo.

Another heartwarming message came from Dave Stewart, a close friend, and former teammate, recalling fond memories of their time together both on and off the field.

Stewart shared heartfelt memories, harking back to when they first met in their teenage years in Oakland. Their friendship began in the Babe Ruth League, a bond that only deepened over time as they pursued their shared passion for sports.

Henderson’s talents spanned both football and baseball in his early years, though his future in the diamond was destined for greatness. Their paths intertwined again in professional baseball, eventually becoming teammates with the Oakland Athletics, where they achieved a memorable World Series championship in 1989.

Stewart reminisced about their shared laughter, recalling how Henderson jokingly claimed the MVP trophy Stewart won belonged to him, due to Stewart’s commendable crisis response during an earthquake.

Their bond went beyond comradery on the baseball field. Stewart humorously recounted Henderson’s determination to align their careers, noting Rickey’s expectation that they retire around the same time.

In 2022, the Oakland Athletics chose to retire the jersey numbers of both Stewart and Henderson, acknowledging their indelible impact. Stewart expressed the deep personal significance of this honor, especially since it aligned his career with Rickey’s—a matter he held close to his heart.

Reflecting on their long-standing friendship, Stewart remarked about how he and Rickey had been integral parts of each other’s lives. He shared a story illustrating Henderson’s boundless energy, pointing out how Rickey would personally tend to chores on his properties, embodying a spirit of active engagement despite his health issues.

Henderson’s adventurous side was no secret. Stewart shared tales of Rickey’s penchant for fishing and hunting, demonstrating his love for thrill and challenges.

Their last interaction was bittersweet. Stewart had reached out to remind Henderson of an upcoming business meeting, only to speak with Henderson’s daughter, who informed him of his hospital-related surgery, soon followed by the heart-wrenching news of his passing.

Henderson’s passing leaves a significant gap in the lives of those who knew him personally and within the broader baseball community. His legacy as a player and friend is irreplaceable, but his memory and accomplishments will continue to inspire.