Rickey Henderson: The Undisputed King of Leadoff Hitters and Stolen Bases
December 21, 2024In addition to his steals, Henderson scored 2,295 runs, the highest in MLB history, surpassing legends like Ty Cobb and Barry Bonds.
He retired with a career on-base percentage exceeding .400 and ranks among the top four players in total times on base, with 5,343.
Henderson's career bWAR total of 111.1 places him 19th in MLB history, reinforcing his legacy as one of the all-time greats.
Despite an outstanding 1985 season, where he boasted a .314 batting average, 99 walks, 80 steals, 24 home runs, and 146 runs scored, he finished third in the MVP race.
Over time, Henderson's contributions to baseball have gained recognition, although they were often underappreciated during his career due to evolving perceptions of player value.
His influence transcends statistics; Henderson is revered as the archetype of the leadoff role, with few likely to match his contributions in that position.
Henderson's unique playing style has drawn comparisons to Cool Papa Bell from the Negro Leagues, highlighting his historical significance.
Rickey Henderson is celebrated as the quintessential leadoff hitter in baseball history, a status he maintains more than two decades after his final game.
He holds the record for the most stolen bases in MLB history, with an impressive total of 1,406, far exceeding Lou Brock's 938.
Henderson's remarkable single-season record of 130 stolen bases, achieved in 1982, further solidified his reputation as a transformative player on the base paths.
For many baseball fans, especially those who experienced his peak in the 1980s, Henderson represents a nostalgic figure in the sport.
Reflecting on his legacy, Henderson took a contemplative boat ride in Cooperstown upon his Hall of Fame induction in 2009.
Throughout his career, Henderson played in 2,890 games, leading off in 2,875 of them, showcasing his dominance in that role.
Summary based on 1 source
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Source
ESPN • Dec 21, 2024
Why no leadoff hitter will ever top Rickey Henderson - ESPN