Born Reginald Martinez Jackson on May 18, 1946 in Wyncote, Pennsylvania, he earned the nickname "Mr. October" due to his outstanding overall performances in the 5 World Series that he appeared in. In 27 World Series games, he amassed 10 home runs, including four in a row (three of them on consecutive pitches), 24 RBI and a .357 batting average.
Jackson's other accomplishments include winning the 1973 regular-season MVP award, amassing a total of 563 career homeruns, maintaining a .490 career slugging percentage, and the dubious distinction of being the all-time leader in striking out with 2597. Jackson played with the Oakland Athletics, Baltimore Orioles, New York Yankees, and, in the twilight of his career, the California Angels.
The now-discontinued "Reggie Bar" candy bar was named after the ballplayer.
His jersey number, 44, is retired by the Yankees. In 2004, the A's will retire the number 9 that he wore during his days in Oakland. He is the only non-pitcher to win World Series most valuable player honors twice (in 1973 with the Oakland A's and in 1977 with the New York Yankees).