New Missouri baseball coach Kerrick Jackson talks to reporters during his introductory press conference Monday, June 5, 2023 at Taylor Stadium in Columbia, Missouri.
COLUMBIA, Mo. — From his booming voice to an imposing 6-foot-3 frame, Kerrick Jackson has a presence when he enters a room, shakes hands and introduces himself.
Ian Kinsler noticed right away.
The four-time America League All-Star second baseman played just one season at Mizzou in 2003, but like Jackson, Kinsler cares deeply about the program in Columbia. That’s why he agreed to consult with athletics director Desireé Reed-Francois on the coaching search that lasted less than a week and brought Jackson home to Columbia.