In the spring of 1991, USA TODAY launched its inaugural issue of Baseball Weekly with Rickey Henderson as the cover star. This moment marked a pivotal point in both sports journalism and Henderson's career. Despite the challenges faced by writer Tim Wendel, who had to convince Henderson to participate amidst contract disputes and media skepticism, the interview not only secured the first cover but also set the tone for what would become an influential publication. The article delved into Henderson’s pursuit of Lou Brock’s stolen base record, his dissatisfaction with his salary, and his reflections on the game. Over the years, this publication evolved into Sports Weekly, continuing to shape sports coverage. Henderson's legacy remains indelible, remembered as one of the greatest leadoff hitters in baseball history.
The Birth of Baseball Weekly and Henderson's Unforgettable Interview
In the early days of spring training 1991, before the era of social media and smartphones, the world of sports journalism was simpler yet more challenging. Tim Wendel, a writer for USA TODAY, found himself in Arizona tasked with securing Rickey Henderson for the cover of the first-ever issue of Baseball Weekly. Little did he know that this assignment would turn out to be anything but routine.
Henderson, then the reigning American League MVP, was at a crossroads. He was pursuing Lou Brock’s all-time stolen base record while simultaneously battling frustration over his contract negotiations. As Wendel approached him after a game at Phoenix Municipal Stadium, Henderson initially tried to avoid the conversation. However, when Wendel mentioned the focus on Henderson and Brock’s record, Henderson agreed to speak.
During their discussion, Henderson expressed his discontent with his $3 million annual salary, which placed him outside the top 25 in the majors and only fourth-best on his own team. He questioned the fairness of such disparities, comparing it to workplace scenarios where performance and compensation were misaligned. Henderson’s candidness provided valuable insight into the mind of one of baseball’s most dynamic players.
The cover of the first issue, titled "Henderson Contract Flap: Will It Tarnish Man of Steal’s Run at Record," captured the essence of the moment. The publication went on sale from April 4-11, 1991, marking the beginning of a new era in sports journalism. Over the years, Baseball Weekly evolved into Sports Weekly, expanding its coverage to include football, basketball, and hockey, while maintaining its commitment to in-depth player profiles and statistics.
Henderson’s impact extended beyond the field. His innovative playstyle changed how the game was played, and his influence is still felt today. Billy Beane, a long-time executive with the Athletics, later remarked that Henderson was undoubtedly the greatest leadoff hitter of all time. Henderson’s presence on the cover of that first issue became a symbol of his enduring legacy in both baseball and sports journalism.
From a journalist's perspective, the story of securing Henderson for the cover serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance and adaptability in reporting. It highlights the challenges faced by writers in gaining access to athletes and the value of building trust. Henderson’s willingness to open up about his struggles and aspirations added depth to the narrative, making it a memorable piece of sports history. Ultimately, this experience underscores the power of storytelling in capturing the human side of sports and the lasting impact it can have on readers.