The 1972 World Series sent the Oakland Athletics against the Cincinnati Reds, with the Athletics winning the Series in a match up of the 70's two premier dynasties. The "Swingin' A's" featured lots of facial hair, colorful nicknames, and explosive personalities, while "The Big Red Machine" were a more traditional franchise with an everyday line-up packed full of future Hall of Famers. After a 40-year absence and two franchise relocations, the A's had finally made it back to the Series after squeaking by Detroit in a 5 game ALCS, though they would play without their star Reggie Jackson, who was injured stealing home in the final game against Detroit.