The more I learned about Shoeless Joe, the more I felt he was maligned.

Joe Jackson was a tragic figure. He was a serene country boy who signed a confession he couldn't read. He was illiterate.

I think Joe Jackson is a great American figure. In my opinion, he became a scapegoat.

If I go to a baseball game, I hear 'Shoeless Joe,' but otherwise, I hear 'toe pick' five times a day. No matter how many more movies I make, that'll be on my gravestone.

There's no doubt my having been a ballplayer made me feel a special sense of responsibility to Joe Jackson's life.

John Sayles is good. He's like a good thoroughbred owner - he leaves the trainers alone.