Stealing a milestone
This published after Athletics outfielder Rickey Henderson set a major league record by stealing his 939th base, eclipsing Lou Brock’s career mark on May 1, 1991. ran the bases, and I congratulate you. You are a legend in your own time. Congratulations.”
Henderson, with a big grin on his face, then addressed the fans.
“Lou Brock was a symbol of great base-stealing,” he said, “but today I am the greatest of all time.”
He thanked everyone, from the fans to his mother, family and loved ones to former managers, including Tom Trebelhorn and the late Billy Martin.
“Billy Martin made me believe I could go out and break records,” Henderson said after the game. “He put his heart behind me. He was like a father to me and I think I was like a son to him.”
Henderson’s first try for the record was thwarted in the first inning. After drawing a leadoff walk, Henderson was thrown out trying to steal second by Nokes, who also hit a solo home run in the fourth. Nokes also threw out Henderson trying to steal third in the fifth, marking the fifth time in eight tries Henderson has been caught this year.
Henderson, who needed six tries since Opening Day before stealing the bases that tied and broke Brock’s record, could only shake his head about his first three weeks of the 1991 season.
“I’ve never had it this tough getting two bases,” Henderson said.
“They were the toughest of my career. I dont` know why. It didnt` seem like I would ever get them.”
Dave Henderson hit his league-leading seventh home run, Ernest Riles went 4 for 5 with four RBIs and Mike Moore improved his record to 4-0.