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MLB’s all-time stolen base leader Rickey Henderson dead at age 65

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Major League Baseball’s all-time stolen base leader, Rickey Henderson has died. According to Henderson’s family, he passed away on Friday.

Henderson’s family described him as a devoted son, dad, friend, grandfather, brother, uncle and a truly humble soul.

Across his illustrious 25-year Major League Baseball career, spanning from 1979 to 2003, Henderson played for nine teams and most notably retired as MLB’s all-time stolen base leader – at 1,406, and all-time runs scored leader - at 2,295. 

The 1990 American League MVP is regarded as one of the best leadoff hitters in the sport’s history.

Henderson began his professional career with the Oakland Athletics after being drafted by the franchise in the fourth round in 1976.

He quickly made his mark, earning All-Star honors in his first full MLB season in 1980, after stealing 100 bases to break Ty Cobb’s longstanding AL record of 96 that had withstood for over 65 years.

In 1982, the “Man of Steal” further cemented his legacy as the greatest base stealer in MLB history after the left fielder stole 130 bases to break Lou Brock’s major league single-season record of 118.

The great Ricky Henderson, dead at the age of 65.

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