Most stolen bases in a season
Hugh Nicol, 138 in 1887.
Hugh Nicol stole 138 for the Cincinnati Red Stockings in 1887, the MLB record for stolen bases in a season. Since 1901 it is Rickey Henderson's 130 for the Oakland Athletics in 1982.
In 2026: Nasim Nuñez (Washington Nationals) led MLB with 49, 81 short of the modern record.
Most stolen bases in a season: the top 25
Since 1901
More than once in the top 25: Billy Hamilton 5 times, Rickey Henderson 3 times, Vince Coleman 3 times, Hugh Nicol 2 times, Arlie Latham 2 times and Jim Fogarty 2 times.
* Baseball-Reference's figure, where it differs from MLB's official one.
Every team's record
Each franchise's best season, including the years it played under another name or in another city.
Questions
What is the MLB record for stolen bases in a season?
138, by Hugh Nicol of the Cincinnati Red Stockings in 1887. The record since 1901 is Rickey Henderson's 130 (1982).
Who led MLB in stolen bases in 2026?
Nasim Nuñez of the Washington Nationals, with 49. That is 81 short of the record.
Who has the most seasons among the top 25 for stolen bases?
Billy Hamilton, 5 times (1889, 1890, 1891, 1894 and 1895).
Which team's own stolen bases record is the highest?
Cincinnati Reds: Hugh Nicol, 138 in 1887. The lowest club record belongs to the Texas Rangers, 52 by Bump Wills (1978).
Which numbers count?
MLB's official records, which since 2024 include the Negro Leagues from 1920 to 1948. Before 1898 a runner was also credited with a steal for taking an extra base on a hit, so the 1880s totals are not like for like.