Athletics Billy Beane and John Fisher Share Thoughts on Rickey Henderson
On Saturday, the entire sports world was stunned to learn of the passing of the gutsy and electric Rickey Henderson. The former Oakland player had been dealing with pneumonia; when he lost his battle late Friday evening at just the age of 65. In a matter of minutes a strong wave and outpouring of love for Rickey took over online. Included in these expressions were statements from two prominent executives from the A’s organization. The Athletics Billy Beane and John Fisher took time to share thoughts on the late Rickey Henderson.
Henderson is Oakland royalty. Now and forever. From the very beginning he made an impact on the organization. In 1989 the A’s win the World Series against the San Francisco Giants. Henderson was named the MVP of the ALCS; hitting .400 and stealing eight bases.
It was the team’s first World Series win in 15 years. Since Oakland was a title town in the 1970s with the A’s winning championships in 1972-74. And Oakland fans… we know you have been through a lot. But you should know that Rickey thought the world of you all. In his own words:
“My career of being a baseball player in Oakland was fantastic,’’ Henderson said after being elected into the Hall of Fame. “I wouldn’t give it back for anything else. I had a wonderful time, the fans of Oakland were the best fans who were ever behind me and even when I was on another team, they always cheered.”
Nice sentiments. Nevertheless, the A’s owner has come forward among the throng of figures who wished to publicly share their condolences and honor Henderson’s many achievements. Fisher mentions,
“Rickey was one of a kind. I’m shocked and deeply saddened by his passing, knowing we will no longer see this humble, smiling, and always approachable legend at Spring Training or in the clubhouse. He symbolized everything that is great about baseball and his hometown team, the Oakland Athletics. As Billy Beane shared with me, “At 65, Rickey still looked ready to put on his uniform and lead off.” I will miss him. My deepest condolences to his wife, daughters, family, and friends.”
Athletics Billy Beane and John Fisher Share Thoughts on Rickey Henderson
Billy Beane, proudly known in pop culture for the film, Moneyball; was the A’s GM for a number of years, actually decades. However, in more recent times his role has changed. After spending 34 years as the A’s general manager, Billy Beane was shifted from senior advisor to managing partner in 2022. Yet, he remains as a minority owner, though.
Beane was very saddened by the news of Henderson and released this statement:
“Rickey was a teammate, a competitor, and someone I was lucky enough to work alongside and ultimately call a friend. He was the greatest Oakland A of all time and will deservedly be remembered that way by fans of baseball across the world. His impact on the A’s, on Oakland, and on baseball is immeasurable, as he continued to affect the lives and careers of A’s players and staff until the very end. My condolences go out, first and foremost, to his family for their loss, and to everyone who knew and admired Rickey. He will be greatly missed.”
Yes, he will be missed. This legend had 10 All-Star selections, two World Series titles, three Silver Slugger Awards and one Gold Glove Award. Plus, he won the hearts of baseball fans, both young and old. A true Hall of Famer who was magnetic on the field and a great man of class and excellence.
Forever tipping our caps to the Man of Steal.
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