Athletics legend Dave Stewart pens down EMOTIONAL message following passing of close friend Rickey Henderson
Dave Stewart and Rickey Henderson spent five seasons as teammates and won the 1989 World Series with the Athletics.
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Rickey Henderson and Dave Stewart (Image via The Oaklandside)
The Major League Baseball (MLB) received a heartbreaking update on Saturday when news of Rickey Henderson passing away broke out. The MLB Hall of Famer died at the age of 65, just a few days before his 66th birthday. His close friend and fellow Athletics legend Dave Stewart penned down an emotional message on social media after his passing.
As per reports, Henderson was battling with pneumonia. He was admitted to the University of California, San Francisco Medical Center for treatment, where he later passed away. He would have turned 66 on Christmas Day.
Henderson would spend five seasons with Stewart as teammates at the Athletics. They played an important part in the team’s 1989 World Series triumph. During their time together, they would become close to each other.
The two friends were seen together in September. At the Athletics’ last game at the Coliseum Stadium in Oakland, Stewart and Henderson went to the mound together and threw out the first ceremonial pitch.
Taking to his X account, Stewart expressed that he cannot explain to others on what Henderson meant to him. Apart from a heartfelt message, the 3-time World Series winner also shared some photos of him and Henderson.
I can’t explain what someone who was present in every memory, childhood to today, means to me or what it means to cope with having no more tomorrows alongside him. Rickey Henderson was the best ball player many know, but that is nothing in comparison to the brother he is to me.
Dave Stewart on X
I can’t explain what someone who was present in every memory, childhood to today, means to me or what it means to cope with having no more tomorrows alongside him. Rickey Henderson was the best ball player many know, but that is nothing in comparison to the brother he is to me. pic.twitter.com/mAg79fpxhA
— Dave “Smoke” Stewart (@Dsmoke34) December 22, 2024
Several fans, former players, and teams have since showered tribute towards Henderson. The outfielder spent 25 years in the MLB and played for nine teams. He retired in 2003 as the league’s all-time stolen bases and runs scored leader.
In 2009, Henderson was inducted into the MLB Hall of Fame. He received a total of 94.8 percent of vote and entered Cooperstown as a first-ballot inductee.
Dave Stewart was ‘unable’ to wrap his head regarding Rickey Henderson passing
The passing of Rickey Henderson has left several people connected to baseball in a state of shock. Dave Stewart was one of them who was unable to wrap his head regarding this unfortunate news.
In an interview with USA Today, the former Athletics pitcher claimed that he was not able to believe that his friend was no longer with him. Stewart found about his friend’s death through his (Henderson’s) daughter Alexis on Friday.
I couldn’t believe it. I still can’t. I can’t wrap my head around it. We’ve known each other practically our entire lives. That was my dude.
Dave Stewart said as per USA Today
Just like Henderson, Stewart also saw his jersey No.34 being sent to the rafters. Apart from the Athletics, Stewart represented four more teams and spent 16 years in the major league. He earned the nickname of “Smoke” for his intimidating pitching style and postseason performances.
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Vinay Dave
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