BOSTON, Mass — Former Red Sox outfielder Dave Henderson, who was instrumental to Boston's AL Championship in 1986, passed away at the age of 57.
Henderson was acquired by the Sox in a trade with the Mariners during the 1986 season and hit one of the most memorable home runs in franchise history.
With his team down to the last out in the 1986 American League Championship Series, Henderson delivered a go-ahead two-run homer in the top of the ninth inning in Game 5. While the Angels would tie the score in the bottom half of the inning, the Sox would win Game 5 in the 11th and win the series in seven games.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Dave Henderson,” said Red Sox President Sam Kennedy. “His home run in Game 5 of the 1986 ALCS was a signature moment in Red Sox history, and we shared his unbridled joy when he hopped into the air as the ball cleared the fence in Anaheim.
“Hendu played just two seasons in Boston, but we always regarded him as one of us, and are grateful for the time we were able to enjoy his talent and infectious personality. Everywhere he went, Henderson made friends. He was a great ambassador for our game, and we have lost him far too soon.”
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