Then: Reggie Jackson
Reggie Jackson earned his nickname “Mr. October” with his powerful postseason performances, clinching the World Series MVP in 1973 with the Oakland Athletics.
Jackson’s clutch hitting helped the A’s win their second consecutive World Series title, where he delivered memorable moments with his bat and solidified his reputation as a clutch player. His success with the A’s continued, and he later joined the Yankees, where he further showcased his postseason prowess, particularly in the 1977 World Series.
Now: Reggie Jackson
After his retirement, Jackson remained active in baseball. He’s served as a special advisor for the Yankees and, more recently, for the Houston Astros, using his decades of experience to mentor younger players.
Beyond baseball, Jackson pursued various business ventures, including a successful car dealership business, and he regularly appears at MLB events, engaging with fans and sharing stories from his storied career.
Then: Pedro Guerrero
Pedro Guerrero’s powerful hitting in the 1981 World Series made him a co-MVP alongside Ron Cey and Steve Yeager, helping the Los Angeles Dodgers defeat the Yankees in six games.
Known for his strength at the plate and game-changing presence, Guerrero was a key player during the Dodgers’ championship run. He remained a valuable member of the Dodgers lineup until he was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals in 1988, where he continued to contribute solidly on offense.
Now: Pedro Guerrero
Since his playing days, Guerrero has faced personal challenges, including health issues stemming from a stroke and various legal troubles. In recent years, he’s recovered significantly and made efforts to reconnect with the Dodgers’ fanbase, attending alumni events and sharing his journey with fans.
Guerrero is respected not only for his performance on the field but also for his resilience in overcoming hardships after his career. He remains a beloved figure in Los Angeles, celebrated for his pivotal role in bringing the Dodgers a World Series title.
Then: Bret Saberhagen
Bret Saberhagen’s dominant pitching in the 1985 World Series brought the Kansas City Royals their first championship, earning him the Series MVP. At just 21, he was known for his sharp control and poise under pressure, throwing two complete games, including a shutout in Game 7.
His brilliant postseason performance became the highlight of his early career, and he went on to win two Cy Young Awards and make three All-Star appearances in his time with the Royals.
Now: Bret Saberhagen
Since retiring, Saberhagen has stayed connected to baseball, working with youth players and engaging in Kansas City community events. He’s been active in charitable causes, especially those focused on youth and education, and has participated in Royals’ alumni activities, often returning to celebrate team anniversaries and milestones.
Saberhagen’s legacy as one of the Royals’ all-time greats endures, and he is celebrated for both his World Series heroics and his dedication to giving back to the community he holds dear.
Then: José Rijo
José Rijo was instrumental in the Cincinnati Reds’ 1990 World Series victory over the heavily favored Oakland Athletics, delivering two wins in the series and clinching the MVP title.
His performance, including a stellar Game 4 that sealed the series sweep, was marked by his powerful fastball and command, making him nearly unhittable. Rijo’s career, however, was marred by multiple elbow injuries that eventually led to his early retirement in the mid-1990s.
Now: José Rijo
After briefly returning to baseball in 2001, Rijo transitioned to life outside of the major leagues, focusing on charitable efforts in his native Dominican Republic, where he has provided aid and support for underprivileged communities.
Rijo has also worked as a scout and mentor, helping guide young Dominican players toward success in the MLB. He remains a popular figure in Cincinnati, respected not only for his contributions to their last World Series title but also for his charitable spirit and dedication to giving back.
Then: Tom Glavine
Tom Glavine’s masterful performance in the 1995 World Series helped the Atlanta Braves secure their first title since moving to Atlanta, earning him MVP honors. Following a 1994 players’ strike, Glavine’s consistency and clutch pitching were crucial, particularly in Game 6 when he allowed just one hit over eight innings to clinch the championship.
A two-time Cy Young Award winner, Glavine’s Braves tenure was characterized by poise and excellence that anchored one of the greatest rotations in baseball history.
Now: Tom Glavine
Since retiring, Glavine has stayed close to the game as a broadcaster for the Braves, sharing insights on Atlanta’s current roster while engaging with fans who remember his playing days.
He’s involved in various charities, particularly those supporting childhood cancer research, and remains a respected voice within baseball. Glavine’s legacy as one of Atlanta’s most dependable pitchers endures, and he is remembered not only for his skill on the mound but also for his impact off the field.
Then: Derek Jeter
Derek Jeter’s MVP performance in the 2000 World Series highlighted his role as the Yankees’ leader during their late-90s dynasty. His consistent hitting and clutch play helped the Yankees defeat the crosstown Mets in five games.
Known for his steady defense and leadership, Jeter became the face of the Yankees, amassing five championships over his 20-year career and establishing himself as one of the most respected players in baseball.
Now: Derek Jeter
Post-retirement, Jeter transitioned into a new chapter by joining the ownership and executive ranks, serving as CEO and part-owner of the Miami Marlins from 2017 to 2022. Though he stepped down from the Marlins, Jeter remains active in business ventures and philanthropy, notably through his foundation, Turn 2.
His legacy as a leader both on and off the field keeps him in the spotlight, and his continued influence is felt across the sport.
Then: Manny Ramirez
Manny Ramirez’s World Series MVP performance in 2004 ended the Boston Red Sox’s historic 86-year championship drought, with his powerful hitting leading them to victory over the St. Louis Cardinals.
Known for his unique style and personality, Ramirez became a fan favorite and a key part of Boston’s lineup, often delivering in high-pressure situations and becoming one of the most iconic players of his era.
Now: Manny Ramirez
Ramirez has remained involved in baseball, taking up coaching roles in minor league and international teams, particularly in Taiwan. He’s embraced mentorship, sharing his batting expertise with younger players.
Though his career had its share of controversies, Ramirez’s legacy in Boston endures, and he’s still celebrated as a central figure in the team’s unforgettable 2004 championship run.
Then: Jermaine Dye
Jermaine Dye’s clutch performance in the 2005 World Series propelled the Chicago White Sox to their first championship in 88 years, and his powerful bat earned him the MVP title.
Known for his consistency and defensive skills, Dye was a key contributor for the White Sox throughout his career. His memorable performances in the 2005 postseason cemented his place in White Sox history.
Now: Jermaine Dye
After his retirement, Dye has stayed connected to baseball, mentoring young players and participating in White Sox alumni events. He’s also dedicated time to his community, supporting various charities.
Dye remains a beloved figure in Chicago, celebrated for his role in breaking the team’s lengthy title drought and for his continued dedication to community involvement.
Then: Cole Hamels
Cole Hamels’ dominant pitching earned him the MVP title in the 2008 World Series, helping the Philadelphia Phillies claim their first championship in 28 years.
His stellar Game 1 and Game 5 performances anchored the team’s success, with his precision pitching making him one of the postseason’s standout players. Hamels’ impressive showing in the World Series marked the peak of his tenure with the Phillies.
Now: Cole Hamels
Hamels continued pitching in MLB for over a decade, eventually playing for the Rangers, Cubs, and Braves. Beyond baseball, Hamels has dedicated himself to philanthropy, founding the Hamels Foundation to support education and healthcare initiatives.
Although he’s retired, Hamels remains connected to Philadelphia, where he’s remembered fondly for his World Series heroics and community contributions.