Major Controversies Surrounding Reggie Jackson: A Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Reggie Jackson.

Reggie Jackson, a former American professional baseball right fielder, played 21 seasons in MLB for multiple teams, including the Athletics, Orioles, Yankees, and Angels. Known for his power hitting and clutch performances, particularly in the World Series with the Yankees, he earned the nickname "Mr. October." Jackson was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1993, his first year of eligibility, solidifying his place as one of baseball's most memorable and impactful figures.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

1972: Steinbrenner's Campaign Finance Violation

In 1972, George Steinbrenner violated campaign-finance laws, which was later referenced by Billy Martin in a statement about Steinbrenner and Jackson in 1978. This contributed to the Yankees being nicknamed "The Bronx Zoo."

June 1977: SPORT Magazine Interview

In June 1977, SPORT magazine published an interview where Reggie Jackson was quoted as saying, "This team, it all flows from me. I'm the straw that stirs the drink. Maybe I should say me and Munson, but he can only stir it bad." This quote caused strain between Jackson and his teammates.

July 1977: New York Times Interview

In July 1977, Dave Anderson of The New York Times reported that Jackson said, "I'm still the straw that stirs the drink. Not Munson, not nobody else on this club." This further strained Jackson's relationships with his teammates, Martin, Steinbrenner, and Yankee fans.

July 19, 1977: Incident after All-Star Game

On July 19, 1977, after the All-Star Game at Yankee Stadium, Reggie Jackson was accused of making contact with a teen's wrist after the teen made a "vile remark" about Jackson's mother. A criminal complaint for harassment was authorized against Jackson, reluctantly.

1977: The Bronx Is Burning miniseries about the 1977 Yankees

In 2007, ESPN aired the miniseries "The Bronx Is Burning" about the 1977 Yankees. Reggie Jackson, portrayed by Daniel Sunjata, felt betrayed by the portrayal of him as selfish and arrogant.

April 19, 1979: Fight between Gossage and Johnson

On April 19, 1979, a fight broke out between Goose Gossage and Cliff Johnson after Jackson relayed Gossage's comments about Johnson's hitting abilities. Gossage suffered torn ligaments, and both were fined.

June 1, 1980: Attempted shooting after a game

On June 1, 1980, in the early morning hours after hitting a game-winning home run, Reggie Jackson was subjected to racial slurs and had a bottle thrown at his car while looking for parking on Manhattan's Upper East Side.

March 22, 1985: Attack after spring training game

On March 22, 1985, after a California Angels spring training game in Tucson, Arizona, Reggie Jackson was attacked in the parking lot by a man who had heckled him and insisted on fighting. The man also asked Jackson for an autograph and offered cocaine.

March 30, 1985: Confrontation at Gene Autry Hotel

On March 30, 1985, at the Gene Autry Hotel during spring training, Reggie Jackson confronted two men driving erratically on the hotel grounds. The men threatened him with a tire iron after using racial slurs, resulting in one arrest for assault with a deadly weapon.

2007: The Bronx Is Burning miniseries airs

In 2007, ESPN aired the miniseries "The Bronx Is Burning" about the 1977 Yankees. Reggie Jackson, portrayed by Daniel Sunjata, felt betrayed by the portrayal of him as selfish and arrogant.

July 2012: Controversial Sports Illustrated Interview

In July 2012, Reggie Jackson's interview with Sports Illustrated, where he criticized Hall of Fame standards and players associated with performance-enhancing drugs, caused controversy, leading the Yankees to caution him.

June 20, 2024: Appearance at MLB at Rickwood Field tribute game

On June 20, 2024, Reggie Jackson joined baseball legends at the MLB at Rickwood Field tribute game in Birmingham, Alabama. He spoke about his experiences with racism during his playing days.