Baseball Legend Rickey Henderson Honored in Oakland

OAKLAND, Calif. — Baseball Hall of Famer Rickey Henderson, the all-time leader in stolen bases and runs scored, will be honored Saturday at a public service in Oakland, just months after his unexpected death at age 65. The ceremony, held at the Oakland Arena, will celebrate the life and legacy of one of baseball’s most electrifying players.

Henderson, who died Dec. 20 due to complications from pneumonia, left an indelible mark on the sport during his 25-year career. Known for his unmatched speed, unique style, and irrepressible confidence, Henderson stole a record 1,406 bases and scored 2,295 runs — more than any player in history. His impact extended beyond statistics, as teammates and opponents alike remember him as a larger-than-life figure who redefined the game.

“Rickey was the most dangerous player of our time,” said Tony La Russa, Henderson’s former manager with the Oakland A's. “He’d get on base, steal it, and score. You couldn’t scare him, and you couldn’t stop him.” La Russa, who will speak at the memorial, described Henderson as a beloved teammate who brought joy and energy to every clubhouse he entered.

Henderson’s career spanned nine teams, but he is most closely associated with the Oakland A’s, where he played multiple stints and helped lead the team to a World Series title in 1989. His No. 24 jersey is retired by the franchise, and the field at the Oakland Coliseum bears his name. “He was one of the greatest players of all time,” La Russa added. “He compares to Willie Mays, Hank Aaron, and Babe Ruth.”

Former teammates and rivals shared stories of Henderson’s unparalleled skills and charisma. Mike Cameron, who played with Henderson on the Seattle Mariners, recalled how Henderson’s base-stealing prowess was a blend of science and instinct. “He knew every pitcher’s tell,” Cameron said. “If he hadn’t seen a pitcher before, he’d watch from the dugout until he figured it out.”

Henderson’s unique personality also left a lasting impression. He often referred to himself in the third person and had a flair for the dramatic, whether it was popping his jersey after a home run or sliding headfirst into bases. “He was hilarious, thoughtful, and a great teammate,” said Raúl Ibañez, who played with Henderson in Seattle. “He had this confidence that was contagious.”

Henderson’s legacy extends beyond his on-field achievements. He was a mentor to younger players, often sharing advice and instilling confidence. “He taught me how to be a big leaguer,” said A.J. Hinch, who lockered next to Henderson in Oakland. “He had this way of making everyone around him better.”

Saturday’s service will bring together Hall of Famers, former teammates, and fans to celebrate Henderson’s life. Among those expected to attend are La Russa, Dave Stewart, Dennis Eckersley, and Reggie Jackson. The event, which is sold out, will be held at the Oakland Arena, adjacent to the Coliseum where Henderson made history.

Henderson’s death came just five days before his 66th birthday, leaving the baseball world in mourning. But his legacy lives on through the stories of those who knew him and the records he set. “Rickey Henderson was a once-in-a-generation player,” said Bobby Valentine, a former manager who faced Henderson in the 1980s. “He was the best player I ever saw.”