On October 18, 1977, in the pivotal Game 6 of the World Series, the New York Yankees faced off against the LA Dodgers.

With the Yankees leading the series 3-2, they were just one win away from clinching the World Series title. In this crucial game, Reggie Jackson achieved an unprecedented feat of hitting three consecutive home runs, propelling the New York Yankees to victory. This remarkable performance earned him the nickname 'Mr. October.' 

“The only reason I don’t like playing in the World Series is I can’t watch myself play.” 

- Reggie Jackson

The World Series, where the year's best team is crowned, is the dream stage for every baseball player, involving a battle between the champions of each league. Usually, it's challenging to show one's true skills in such big games, but Reggie Jackson uniquely excelled in the World Series season, especially in October. His World Series slugging percentage* of 0.755 is the highest ever**, even exceeding Babe Ruth’s lifetime major league record of 0.690. Jackson outshined Babe Ruth in World Series play.

*Slugging Percentage: A measure of a batter's expected number of bases per at-bat.
** Reggie Jackson's lifetime slugging percentage was 0.490.

It's interesting that Reggie Jackson's nickname, 'Mr. October,' initially was used sarcastically. At the time, he had conflicts with team captain Thurman Munson. When Jackson was dropped from the starting lineup due to poor performance in the Championship Series before the 1977 World Series, Munson commented to the press, "It seems the coach didn't realize why Reggie is Mr. October," mocking his skill.

However, amazingly, Reggie Jackson proved why he was 'Mr. October' as soon as the World Series began. He hit nine hits and five home runs in six games, achieving an average of .450 and a slugging percentage of 1.250. Most notably, in Game 6, he hit the first-ever three consecutive home runs in a World Series, dominating the match and leading the Yankees to win the 1977 World Series.

What was as impressive as his home runs was Reggie Jackson's confidence. Despite striking out seven times during the series, he hit all three home runs on the first pitches. Essentially, he achieved three home runs with just three swings.

“I feel that the most important requirement in success is learning to overcome failure. You must learn to tolerate it, but never accept it.”
- Reggie Jackson

Despite the paradox of his career marked by the most strikeouts in history, a staggering 2,597, Reggie Jackson also achieved remarkable heights with his 563 home runs, placing him sixth in the all-time home run rankings. This interesting juxtaposition highlights his unique legacy in baseball, showcasing an unyielding spirit amidst challenges. His resilience and striking achievements earned him induction into the Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility, receiving an overwhelming 93% of the vote, forever enshrining him as one of the New York Yankees' most formidable hitters.