Al Jackson was a prominent left-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball (MLB), known for his tenacity and skill on the mound. He was born on December 25, 1935, in Waco, Texas, and began his professional baseball career in 1955 with the Pittsburgh Pirates' minor league system. However, it was not until 1959 that he made his MLB debut with the Pirates.

Jackson's career took a significant turn when he was selected by the New York Mets in the 1961 expansion draft. He quickly became a key player for the Mets, pitching in their inaugural season in 1962. Despite the team's overall struggles, Jackson stood out for his individual performances. He pitched a complete game in the Mets' first-ever home win and ended the season with eight wins, the second-highest on the team.

In 1963, Jackson had one of his best seasons, recording 13 wins and a 3.96 ERA. He also pitched a one-hitter game against the Houston Colt .45s, which was the first one-hitter in Mets history. Jackson continued to be a workhorse for the Mets, leading the team in innings pitched in 1962, 1963, and 1965.

In 1966, Jackson was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals, where he played for two seasons. He was part of the Cardinals team that won the 1967 World Series, although he did not play in the series. In 1968, he was traded back to the Mets but was soon sent to the Cincinnati Reds, where he ended his career in 1969.

Throughout his career, Jackson was known for his control and ability to pitch deep into games. He completed 41 games in his career and had a lifetime ERA of 3.98. He was also known for his toughness and resilience, often pitching through injuries and difficult situations.

After his playing career, Jackson remained involved in baseball. He served as a pitching coach for the Boston Red Sox and Baltimore Orioles and worked in various roles for the Mets, including as a minor league pitching instructor and a special assistant to the general manager.

Al Jackson passed away on August 19, 2019, leaving behind a legacy as a beloved and respected figure in the world of baseball. His career may not have been filled with championships and accolades, but his impact on the game and the players he mentored was significant. His dedication, perseverance, and love for the game made him a cherished figure in the baseball community.

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