A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Reggie Jackson.
Reggie Jackson, a former right fielder in Major League Baseball, played for 21 seasons with teams including the Athletics, Orioles, Yankees, and Angels. Known for his clutch hitting and charismatic personality, he was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1993. Jackson's career was marked by both success and controversy, but his impact on the game solidified his place as one of baseball's most memorable figures.
1972: Steinbrenner's Campaign Finance Violation
In 1972, George Steinbrenner, the Yankees' owner, committed a violation of campaign-finance laws, which was later referenced in a statement by Billy Martin in 1978 when discussing Steinbrenner and Jackson.
June 1977: "Straw that stirs the drink" Interview
In June 1977, an interview with SPORT magazine writer Robert Ward quoted Jackson as saying, "I'm the straw that stirs the drink.", leading to strained relationships with teammates.
July 1977: Controversy over "Straw that stirs the drink" comments
In July 1977, Dave Anderson of The New York Times reported that Reggie Jackson reiterated his claim of being "the straw that stirs the drink," further straining his relationships with teammates.
July 19, 1977: Criminal Complaint Authorized After All-Star Game
On July 19, 1977, after the MLB All-Star Game, Reggie Jackson was signing autographs when he confronted teens who made offensive remarks about his mother. A teen claimed Jackson injured his wrist, leading to a criminal complaint for harassment against Jackson.
April 19, 1979: Locker Room Fight
On April 19, 1979, a fight broke out in the Yankees' locker room after Reggie Jackson instigated a conflict between Cliff Johnson and Goose Gossage, resulting in Gossage's injury and subsequent absence from the team.
June 1, 1980: Attempted Shooting
In the early morning hours of June 1, 1980, Reggie Jackson was the victim of an attempted shooting after a home game against the Toronto Blue Jays. He was accosted and yelled at, and a broken bottle was thrown at his car.
March 22, 1985: Attack After Spring Training Game
On March 22, 1985, Reggie Jackson was attacked after a spring training game in Tucson, Arizona. A man who had heckled him followed him to the parking lot and insisted on fighting him, also asking for drugs and an autograph.
March 30, 1985: Confrontation at Gene Autry Hotel
On the morning of March 30, 1985, Reggie Jackson was confronted by two men at the Gene Autry Hotel in Palm Springs. The men heckled him, used racial slurs, and threatened him with a tire iron before one was arrested for assault.
2007: The Bronx Is Burning Miniseries
In 2007, ESPN aired the miniseries The Bronx Is Burning, which depicted Reggie Jackson as selfish and arrogant, which infuriated Jackson.
July 2012: Controversial Interview with Sports Illustrated
In July 2012, Reggie Jackson gave a controversial interview with Sports Illustrated, criticizing the Baseball Writers' Association and players associated with performance-enhancing drugs. The Yankees released a statement regarding the interview.
June 20, 2024: MLB at Rickwood Field tribute game
During the MLB at Rickwood Field tribute game in Birmingham, Alabama on June 20, 2024, Jackson joined dozens of baseball legends to celebrate the Negro leagues and honor the recently departed Willie Mays. On a broadcast before the game, Jackson spoke about the racism he faced and challenges he faced during his playing days.