Reggie Jackson

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Reggie Jackson October 1973

George Steinbrenner s life work 13july2010 000120 Reggie Jackson signs with the Yankees

Reggie Jackson bats at Yankee Stadium

Reggie Jackson - California Angels - 1983

President George H. W. Bush meets with Reggie Jackson

Reggie&A-Rod

Reginald Martinez Jackson (born May 18, 1946) is a former professional baseball player who played as a right fielder in Major League Baseball (MLB) for 21 seasons for the Kansas City / Oakland Athletics, Baltimore Orioles, New York Yankees, and California Angels. Jackson was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1993.

Early Life

Reggie Jackson was born in Wyncote, Pennsylvania, a suburb of Philadelphia. He excelled in various sports at Cheltenham High School, showing exceptional talent in baseball. Jackson attended Arizona State University, where he played college baseball for the Arizona State Sun Devils.

Professional Career

Jackson's professional career began when he was selected by the Kansas City Athletics in the first round of the 1966 Major League Baseball Draft. He made his MLB debut on June 9, 1967. Over his career, Jackson became known for his powerful batting, earning the nickname "Mr. October" for his clutch hitting in the postseason. He helped lead his teams to five World Series championships (three with the Oakland Athletics and two with the New York Yankees).

Oakland Athletics

Jackson played for the Athletics franchise from 1967 to 1975, first in Kansas City and then in Oakland after the team relocated. He was a key player in the Athletics' World Series victories in 1972, 1973, and 1974.

New York Yankees

In 1977, Jackson signed with the New York Yankees, where he became a legendary figure. His most memorable moment came in Game 6 of the 1977 World Series, where he hit three consecutive home runs on the first pitch of each at-bat, leading the Yankees to victory.

Later Career

After his stint with the Yankees, Jackson played for the California Angels and briefly for the Baltimore Orioles before retiring in 1987.

Legacy

Reggie Jackson's legacy in MLB is marked by his 563 career home runs, 14 All-Star Game appearances, and his 1973 AL MVP award. He was known for his charismatic personality, his advocacy for civil rights, and his contributions to the game's history.

Post-Retirement

Following his retirement, Jackson has been involved in various business and philanthropic endeavors. He remains a prominent figure in baseball, often participating in MLB events and serving as a special advisor to the New York Yankees.

Awards and Honors

- Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1993 - Jersey number 44 retired by both the New York Yankees and the Oakland Athletics - Named to the Major League Baseball All-Century Team in 1999

See Also

- List of Major League Baseball career home run leaders - List of Major League Baseball players who spent their entire career with one franchise - Major League Baseball rivalries