BBRT’s Baseball Hall of Fame 2019 Debate Season is officially open! The Baseball Writers Association of America (BBWAA) 2019 Hall of Fame ballots have been mailed and the results will be announced January 22, 2019. This year’s traditional ballot includes 15 holdovers from last year, along with 20 newcomers.
In this post, BBRT will share:
- Predictions on the 2019 BBWAA voting;
- BBRT’s ballot (if I had one);
- A deep look into all the candidates on the ballot;
- A link to BBRT’s unofficial fan ballot – please take a few minutes to follow the line and cast your vote.
—PARTICIPATE IN BASEBALL ROUNDTABLE’S FANS’ HALL OF FAME BALLOT—
Baseball Roundtable is once again conducting an unofficial fan ballot to cast your vote(s) – click here. Remember, you can vote for up to ten of the nominees for 2019 induction. If you want to read through the nominees’ bios first, there is another link to the Fab Ballot following the bios (near the end of this post). BBRT will be providing updates on the fan balloting, as well as a post-election comparison of fan votes as compared to the final BBWAA results. Voting on the BBRT Fan Ballot will remain open until January 1, 1919.
Regular Readers of Baseball Roundtable may remember that BBRT conducted an unofficial fan BB HOF ballot last November/December – inviting voters from among BBRT readers (and a number of additional fan groups) to voice their opinions on HOF-worthiness. The 271 respondents to that survey were even tougher than the BBWAA, giving the necessary 75 percent support to just two candidates – Chipper Jones and Jim Thome. The order of finish in the BBRT fan balloting, however, was remarkably similar to the BBWAA. The same five players finished in the top five positions – and, although the exact order of finish differed a bit, nine players were included in the first ten spots on both ballots and fourteen players appeared among the first fifteen vote-getters on both tallies.
Again, you can click here to access the BRRT Fan Ballot.
BBRT would stress that every player on the ballot – even those who remain for only one voting cycle – deserves high recognition – to make the major leagues, last ten years and make it past the Hall of Fame Screening Committee is a significant acccomplishment in itself.
Now on to the official 2019 Baseball Hall of Fame election process itself – and, then, a look at the players on the ballot for 2019.
BASEBALL HALL OF FAME ELIGIBILITY/CRITERIA FOR ELECTION
The basic rules for eligibility are that a player must have played at least ten seasons and be retired for at least five years. In addition, the player must be approved for the ballot by the Hall of Fame Screening Committee.
A player can remain on the ballot for up to ten years, but must receive at least five percent of the vote in the preceding year’s ballot to remain on the ballot. Each voter can vote for up to ten candidates. Election requires that a player be named on at least 75 percent of the ballots cast.
The criteria for election: “Voting shall be based upon the player’s record, playing ability, integrity, sportsmanship, character, and contributions to the team(s) on which the player played.”
In this post, we’ll take a look at how BBRT would vote – if I had a ballot – as well at whom BBRT expects the BBWAA to vote in. Notably, BBRT tends to be less stingy then the BBWAA voters. I’ll list a full roster of ten candidates (in order of my preference) who would receive my vote.
—–LIKELY BASEBALL HALL OF FAME ELECTEES FOR 2019—–
BBRT’s Prediction for 2019 …
Last November, Baseball Roundtable released its 2018 BBWAA balloting predictions – accurately projecting the election of Chipper Jones, Jim Thome, Vlad Guerrero and Trevor Hoffman. For 2019, BBRT anticipates just two electees from the traditional ballot:
- Mariano Rivera;
- Edgar Martinez.
In addition, I have a pair of dark-horse candidates, who should generate significant support, maybe even enough for election (I do, however, think they may fall just a bit short);
- Mike Mussina;
- Roy Halladay
Note: For BBRT’s previoously posted take on the Today’s Game (Era Committee) ballot, click here,
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—-PLAYERS ON THE HOF BALLOT FOR 2019—-
What follows is a look at all the players on the ballot – starting with the two players BBRT expects to be elected, moving on to my pair of dark-horse candidates, then to the additional six players BBRT would vote for (if I had a ballot) and, finally, to a look at all the remaining players on the ballot. I would note that you will not find those caught up in the PED-controversy on my ballot. While I think they will eventually be elected/inducted, if I had a ballot, I’d prefer they made the 75 percent without my vote. Still, given their place in the history of the game, I’d probably break down and vote for the best of the group when they reached their final year of eligibility.
So, here is BBRT’s Hall of Fame Ballot – again, if I had one – with the players listed in BBRT’s order of preference.
GROUP ONE – BBRT WOULD VOTE FOR THESE TWO – AND ANTICIPATE THEY WILL BE IN THE 2019 HOF CLASS.
Mariano Rivera – (RHP/Closer, 1995-2013) … First year on the ballot.
Photo by Keith Allison 
Mariano Rivera should be a no-doubter. Nineteen years with the Yankees and an MLB-best 652 career saves. Rivera was an All-star in 13 seasons, led the AL in games saved three times and finished in the top three in Cy Young voting four times. He saved 30 or more games in a season 15 times (including nine seasons of 40 or more saves, two of fifty or more) and put up an overall won-lost record of 80-52, with a 2.21 earned run average in 1,114 games. In 11 of his19 seasons, Rivera’s earned run average was under 2.00 – which included a four-season span (2003-06), in which he saved 170 games, won 21 (13 losses) and put up a 1.69 ERA in 302 2/3 innings pitched. In his final season – at age 43 – Rivera went 6-2, with a 2.11 ERA and 44 saves. Rivera was the American League Rolaids Relief Man of the Year in five seasons and the MLB Delivery Man of the Year in three campaigns.
In 2014, MLB established the Mariano Rivera AL Reliever of the Year Award (and the Trevor Hoffman NL Reliever of the Year recognition) – replacing the MLB Delivery Man of the Year Award.
Rivera was also an elite performer in the clutch. In 96 post-season appearances, he went 8-1, with 42 saves and a miniscule 0.70 ERA. Rivera was named the World Series MVP in 1999 and the ALCS MVP in 2003. In the 1999 World Series (Yankees over Braves in four games), Rivera pitched in three games, picking up a win and two saves, allowing no runs on three hits in 4 2/3 innings. In 58 of his 96 post-season appearances, Rivera pitched more than one inning. In the 2003 post-season, he appeared in eight games, pitching 16 innings (more than one frame in seven of the eight appearances), earning a win and five saves, giving up just one earned run (0.56 ERA).
In BBRT’s mind, there is no question that Rivera should, and will, be a first-ballot electee. Speculation is now emerging as to whether he will top Ken Griffey, Jr.’s all-time high 99.32 percent of the vote. BBRT’s take? He’ll come close, but a few voters will leave him off the ballot for a couple of reasons: 1) A misplaced belief that no one should be a unanimous selection; 2) A bias related to relief pitchers’ spot in the Hall.
Mariano Rivera’s Best Season: Lots to choose from here – like 43 saves and a 1.38 ERA in 2005; or 44 saves and a 1.91 ERA in 2011 (at age 41). BBRT will go with 2004, when Rivera saved a career-high 53 games, won four (lost two) and posted a 1.94 ERA
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Edgar Martinez – (Designated Hitter/Third Base, 1987-2004) … Tenth/Final year on the ballot, 70.4 percent in 2018.
Photo by clare_and_ben
We’ve seen some prejudice against designated hitters in past voting, but Edgar Martinez has made progress against that negative bias – getting 70.4 percent pf the vote last season, a healthy increase from 58.6 percent in 2017. Martinez’ vote percentage has increased every year since 2015. The fact that this is his final year on the ballot should provide that final push past the 75 percent mark.
Martinez clearly, and expertly, defined the DH role. In an 18-season MLB career (all with the Mariners), Martinez was named to seven All Star teams; won a pair of batting titles (hitting a high of .356 in 1995); earned five Silver Slugger Awards; topped 100 RBI in six seasons (leading the league with 145 in 2000); and scored 100 or more runs five times (leading the league with 121 in 1995). He finished his career with a .312 average; 2,247 hits; 1,219 runs; 1,261 RBI; 309 home runs; and 514 doubles.
Martinez hit .571 in the 1995 AL Championship Series (12-for-21), with two home runs, six walks and 10 RBI in five games. In 34 post-season games, he hit .266, with eight home runs and 24 RBI.
In 2004, MLB renamed the Outstanding Designated Hitter Award “The Edgar Martinez Outstanding Designated Hitter Award.” That says a lot, right there.
Edgar Martinez’ Best Season: One of two here, In 1995, Martinez led the league in batting average (.356), runs scored (121) and doubles (52), adding 29 home runs and 113 RBI. In 2005, Martinez put up a .324 average, 37 home runs, a league-leading 145 RBI and 100 runs scored.
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DARK HORSE CANDIDATES – WOULD GET BBRT’S VOTE
HAVE A CHANCE TO MAKE THE HALL THIS YEAR
Mike Mussina – (RHP/Starter, 1991-2008) – Sixth year on the ballot 63.5 percent on 2018 ballot.
Photo by Willie Zhang
In 2015, BBRT speculated that the presence newcomers Randy Johnson, Pedro Martinez and John Smoltz on the Hall of Fame ballot would dampen the chances of all other pitchers – including Mike Mussina – for election. This year, I would speculate that the addition of Roy Halladay to the ballot will help Mussina. Basically, I think Halladay will generate considerable support and that, as BBWAA voters consider a ballot for Halladay (who has 203 wins), Mussina’s 270 victories will carry additional weight.
Couple that with the growing support Mussina has generated and it’s possible this could be his year. Since his first-ballot percentage of 20.3 percent in 2014, Mussina’s totals have climbed each year – 24.6 percent in 2015; 43.0 percent in 2016; 51.5 percent in 2017; and 63.5 percent in 2018. He would have had BBRT’s vote in each of those years. Let’s take a look at Mussina’s HOF resume.
Mussina built a 270-153 record, with a career 3.68 ERA and 2,813 strikeouts over 18 seasons. While only once a 20-game winner (in his final season, at age 39), Mussina won 18 or 19 games five times, leading the AL with 19 wins in 1995. In his first three full seasons in the major leagues (1992-94), Mussina put up a .700 or better winning percentage each year (.783, .700, .762). His record over that span – for the Orioles – was 48-16.
Mussina was a five-time All Star and a seven-time Gold Glove winner. He recorded a .650 or better winning percentage in nine seasons, with a career (and league-leading) high of .783 in 1992. Mussina ranks among the top 25 pitchers all-time in strikeouts (20th) and strikeout-to-walk ratio (24th among pitchers with 1,000 or more innings pitched). He’s also in the top fifty all-time in games started, wins and winning percentage. While the lack of a Cy Young Award on his resume may hurt him, he finished his career 117 games over .500 – and history says 100 or more wins than losses should be good for a ticket to the Hall. Mussina pitched for the Orioles (1991-2000) and Yankees (2000-2008).
On September 2, 2001, Mike Mussina – pitching for the Yankees – retired the first 26 Red Sox batters he faced and came with one strike of a perfect game. Mussina had a 1-2 count on pinch-hitter Carl Everett before Everett blooped a single to left-center. Mussina ended up with a 1-0, one-hit shutout victory.
Mussina appeared in 23 post-season games, with a 7-8 record and a 3.42 ERA.
Mike Mussina’s Best Season: Mussina may have saved his best for last. In his final season (as a Yankee), at age 39, he recorded his first twenty-win campaign. That year, Mussina went 20-9, 3.37 – and proved his durability by leading the AL in starts with 34, logging his 11th season of 200 or more innings pitched and earning his seventh Gold Glove
Mussina deserves a spot in Cooperstown and I expect it will be a VERY close call – but he could make it this year.
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Roy Halladay – (RHP/Starter, 1998-2013) … First year on the ballot.
Photo by Keith Allison
Roy Halladay had one of the best-ever ten-year runs on the mound (2002-2011). In those ten seasons, he went 170-75, with a 2.97 earned run average and 1,699 strikeouts in 2,194 2/3 innings. He was an All Star eight times during that span and won a pair of Cy Young Awards (2003 and 2010). Halladay also recorded three seasons of 20 or more wins during those ten seasons, leading his league twice. Between 2002 and 2011, he also led his league in complete games seven times, shutouts four times and innings pitched four times.
The question is: Might that be enough – particularly given the emotion surrounding his untimely death – to be elected to the HOF on the first ballot? BBRT see the possibility, but also sees Halladay as a Dark Horse candidate, probably more likely to fall a bit short. That’s partly because in the six seasons outside his ten-year run of excellence, Halladay was 33-26, 5.03. Halladay finished his career at 203-105, 3.38 with 2,117 strikeouts in 2,749 1/3 innings pitched. Halladay pitched for the Blue Jays (1998-2009) and Phillies (2010-13).
Roy Halladay is one of just six pitchers to win the Cy Young Award in both the American and National Leagues.
Still, there is more to support Halladay’s candidacy. On May 10, 2010, he pitched a perfect game – striking out 11 – as his Phillies topped the Marlins 1-0 in Miami. Then, on October 6, 2010, Halladay tossed a no-hitter against the Reds in Game One of the National League Division Series – walking one and fanning eight as the Phillies won 4-0. It was just the second no-hitter in post-season history.
Again, BBRT speculates 203 wins mightl not be quite enough for a first-ballot election. Halladay would, however, get BBRT’s vote – and should, eventually, earn a plaque on the wall (and it could even be this year).
Roy Halladay’s Best Season: In his 2010 Cy Young Award season – after being traded from the Blue Jays to the Phillies in December of 2009 – Halladay led the NL in wins (21-10); complete games (nine), shutouts (four), and innings pitched (250 2/3), while putting up a 2.35 ERA (third in the league), fanning 219 batters (second in the NL) and walking just 30. His 7.3 strikeouts to walks ratio was the NL’s best.
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SIX MORE PLAYERS WHO WOULD GET BBRT’S VOTE
BUT ARE NOT LIKELY TO ENTER THE HOF IN 2019
Omar Vizquel – (Shortstop/Third Base, 1989-2012) – Second year on the ballot, 37.0 percent on 2018 ballot.
Omar Vizquel got off to a good start toward an HOF plaque, grabbing 37 percent support on his first-ballot year. Vizquel once again earns BBRT’s vote – and should make his way into the Hall of Fame over time. When he does it will be more with his glove (eleven Gold Gloves) than his bat. However, voters should be mindful of the fact that he finished his 24-season MLB career just 123 hits short of that milestone 3,000 safeties. Vizquel delivered premier defense to the Mariners (1989-1993); Indians (1994-2004); Giants (2005-2008); Rangers (2009); White Sox (2010-2011); and Blue Jays (2012). He was a three-time All Star – and put together a string of nine straight Gold Gloves at shortstop (1993-2001).
Omar Vizquel led his league in sacrifice bunts four times.
In the field, Vizquel has the second-highest career fielding percentage (.9847) among shortstops with at least 500 games at the position. The still-active Jose Eglasias is number one at .9853. Vizquel is also the all-time leader among shortstops in double plays, ranks third at the position for career assists and 11th in putouts. He shares the record (with Cal Ripken, Jr.) for the fewest errors by a shortstop in a season of at least 150 games played (three).
On offense, Vizquel put up a serviceable .272 career average, with 80 home runs, 951 RBI and 1,445 runs scored. The 1,445 runs put him in the top 100 players all-time (82nd); while his 2,877 hits puts him in the top 50 (43rd). He also swiped 404 bases – topping twenty steals eight times (a high of 42 in 1999) – putting him at number 72 on the all-time list. Vizquel played in 57 post-season games, hitting .250-0-20.
Omar Vizquel’s Best Season: In 1999, with the Indians, Vizquel hit a surprising .333, with five home runs, 66 RBI, 112 runs scored and 42 stolen bases – and, of course, won a Gold Glove at shortstop.
Vizquel would get BBRT’s vote, but the BBWAA voters likely will make him wait a bit longer – showing a preference for a bit more offense.
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Jeff Kent – (Second Base/Third Base/First Base, 1992-2008) … Sixth year on the ballot, 14.5 percent last year.
BBRT believes Jeff Kent is a deserving candidate, but he has not been getting much support from the writers. Kent holds the all-time MLB record for home runs by a second baseman (351 of his 377 career round trippers were hit while playing second base). He has a healthy .290 career batting average; his 1,518 RBI are 54th all time; and his 560 doubles 28th.
Jeff Kent has more career runs batted in than such noted Hall of Famers as Mickey Mantle, Billy Williams, Eddie Mathews, Duke Snider and Orlando Cepeda.
Kent was a five-time All Star and the 2000 NL MVP. As primarily a middle infielder, he hit 20 or more home runs in 12 seasons (a high of 37 in 2007) and topped 100 RBI eight times. He hit .276, with nine home runs and 23 RBI in 49 post-season games. Kent has the credentials, but BBRT has a hunch the writers may keep him on the bench – a couple of Gold Gloves, at this traditionally defense-oriented position, would have really helped his case. Kent played for the Blue Jays (1992); Mets (1992-1996); Indians (1996); Giants (1997-2002); Astros (2003-2004); and Dodgers (2005-2008).
Jeff Kent’s Best Season: With the Giants in 2000, Kent put up these stats – 159 games; 196 hits; .334 average; 33 home runs; 125 RBI; 114 runs; 12 steals. His performance earned him the NL MVP Award.
Kent gets BBRT vote – and I believe the BBWAA’s support is overdue (but not forthcoming). This is one HOF “snub” that somewhat confuses BBRT.
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Larry Walker – (Outfield, 1989-2005) … Ninth year on the ballot, 34.1 percent last year.
Larry Walker played for the Expos (1989-1994), Rockies (1995-2004) and Cardinals (2004-2005). Given BBRT’s admiration for “lumber AND leather,” Walker’s combination of three batting titles, three Silver Slugger Awards and seven Gold Gloves earns him my vote.
Walker played 17 MLB seasons and retired with 2,160 hits, a .313 average and three batting titles. Between 1997 and 2001, he hit .350 or better in four of five seasons. The five-time All Star (and 1997 NL MVP) hit 383 home runs (a high of 49 in 1997) and stole 230 bases (a high of 33 in 1997). Walker hit just .230 in 28 post-season games, but did rack up seven home runs, 15 RBI and sixteen walks in those contests. Walker’s ten seasons in hitter-friendly Colorado may be hurting his vote totals – he hit .383 for his career in Coors, .271 elsewhere. Still, BBRT believes if you add his Gold Glove defense to his productive bat, you have a Hall of Famer. I’m also not much for punishing a player for taking full advantage of his home-field conditions.
In 1997, Larry Walker led the NL with 409 total bases – the 18th highest single-season total all-time. (There have been only 29 seasons of 400 or more total bases in MLB history).
Larry Walker’s Best Season: In his 1997 NL MVP year (Rockies), Walker hit .366, with a league-leading 49 home runs. He drove in 130 runs, scored 143, rapped 46 doubles, led the league in total bases at 409, topped the league in slugging percentage at .720 and even threw in 33 stolen bases and a Gold Glove. That’s using all five tools.
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Fred McGriff – (First Base, 1986-2004) … Tenth/final year on the ballot, 23.2 percent last year.
Fred McGriff played for the Blue Jays (1986-1990), Padres (1991-1993), Braves (1993-1997), Devil Rays (1998-2001, 2004), Cubs (2001-2002) and Dodgers (2003). McGriff was five-time All Star, who bashed 493 career home runs (led his league twice, hit 30 or more home runs in a season ten times); topped 100 RBI eight times (career total 1,550); and put up a .284 career average over 19 seasons. He ranks among MLB top 50 all-time in home runs, RBI, extra base hits and walks. McGriff was the 1994 All Star Game MVP. McGriff was also a solid post-season performer, going .303-10-37 in 50 post-season games.
Fred McGriff retired with 493 home runs, exactly matching the total of another well-respected first sacker – Lou Gehrig.
Fred McGriff’s Best Season: In 1999. McGriff hit .318, with 34 home runs and 104 RBI for Tampa Bay.
McGriff will get a boost because this is his final year on the ballot, but moving from under 25 percent to 75 percent is not likely. Despite his 493 round trippers (seven more certainly would have helped his case, as would a couple of 40+ HR seasons), McGriff may have to wait for election through the “Era Committees” – and that does seem likely.
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Todd Helton – (First Base, 1997-2013) … First year on the ballot.
Todd Helton has a good shot at the Hall, but is not likely to be a first-ballot inductee – in part due to the fact that he spent his entire 17-year career with the Rockies (playing half his games in hitter-friendly Coors field). Helton, who put up a .316 career average, hit .345 at home and .287 on the road. Despite that home/road split, Helton’s body of work deserves HOF consideration. He was a five-time All Star, three-time Gold Glover and four time Silver Slugger. He hit over .300 in 12 seasons – and won the NL batting crown in 2000 with a .372 average. His 59 doubles that season are the sixth-most all-time. Helton drove in 100 or more runs in five seasons and scored in triple figures six times. His 1,335 walks (36th all-time) indicate the respect he earned at the plate.
Todd Helton’s is one of only 18 players to reach 400 or more total bases in a season – and one of only seven players to have multiple 400+ total base campaigns.
Todd Helton’s Best Season: In 2000, Helton won the NL batting crown with a .372 average – and also led the league in base hits (216), doubles (59), RBI (147), on-base percentage (.463), slugging percentage (.698) and total bases (405). He also scored 138 runs and hit 42 home runs.
Helton will stay on the ballot and has a solid chance at entry into the HOF – he’s just not likely to overcome the first-ballot and Coors Field-bias this year.
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Andy Pettitte – (LHP/Starter, 1995-2010, 2012-13) … First year on the ballot.
I had to think for awhile on this one, largely because a major part of Andy Pettitte’s HOF resume was achieved in the post-season. Pettitte holds the MLB post-season marks for most wins (19 … versus 11 losses), innings pitched (276 2/3), games started (44), and is second in strikeouts (183). His post-season accomplishments include a 3.81 career ERA and the 2001 American League Championship series MVP Award.
Andy Pettie started 30 or more games in a season 12 times, leading his league three times (1997, 2006, 2007.)
Pettitte was no slouch in the regular season (Yankees – 1995-2003, 2007-2010, 2012-13) and Astros (2004-06). He finished with 256 wins (153 losses) and a 3.85 ERA. Pettitte won 20 games in two seasons and 14 or more games 12 times – leading the AL with 21 wins in 1996. (As noted earlir, 100 more wins than losses seems to be a good standard for serious HOF consideration.) The three-time All Star struck out 2,448 batters (42nd all-time) in 2,316 innings.
Andy Pettitte’s Best Season: In 1997, following a 21-8 campaign in 1996, Pettitte went 18-7, with a 2.88 ERA (fourth-best in the AL), leading the league in starts with 35, finishing third in innings pitched (240 1/3) and eighth in strikeouts (166).
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THE REST OF THE BALLOT
So, with BBRT’s unofficial ten votes covered, let’s look at the remainder of the ballot – in alphabetical order – since just making it on the ballot deserves recognition.
Rick Ankiel – (Outfield/Pitcher, 1999-2001, 2004, 2007-13) … First year on the ballot.
Rick Ankiel started his MLB career (1999) on the mound – debuting as a teenager with the Montreal Expos In 2000, with the Cardinals, Ankiel went 11-7, with a 3.50 earned run average in 30 starts – striking out 194 batters in 175 innings, finishing second in the NL Rookie of the Year balloting and earning honors as The Sporting News Rookie Pitcher of the Year.
Then in the 2000 post season, he “lost the plate.” In Game One of the NL Division Series (versus the Braves), Ankiel lasted just 2 2/3 innings – giving up four runs on four hits and six walks, and also unleashing five wild pitches in his final inning. Ankiel drew another post-season start in the National League Championship Series (versus the Mets). This time, he lasted just two-thirds of an inning (two runs on one hit, two walks and two more wild pitches). Ankiel never rediscovered his control, suffered an elbow injury in 2002, had Tommy John surgery in 2003 – and re-emerged in the major leagues as an outfielder in 2007. His final regular-season pitching line: 13-10, 3.90, with 269 strikeouts in 242 innings.
In 2010, Rick Ankiel became the first player since BabeRuth to total at least ten career pitching victories and 50 career home runs.
Ankiel returned to the majors as an outfielder (Cardinals) in 2007 – hitting .285, with 11 home runs and 39 RBI in 47 games. He played through the 2013 season, putting up a final career batting line of .240-76-251, with 260 runs scored and 21 stolen bases (in 11 seasons/651 games).
Rick Ankiel’s Best Season: In 2000, Rick Ankiel (pitcher) went 11-7, 3.50. In 2008, Rick Ankiel (outfielder) hit .264, with 25 home runs and 71 RBI in 120 games.
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Jason Bay – (Outfield, 2003-13) … First year on the ballot.
Jason Bay was the NL Rookie of the Year with the Pirates in 2004, when he played in 120 games and put up a .282-26-82 stat line. He had a solid (but not HOF) 11-season MLB career (Padres, 2003; Pirates, 2003-2008; Red Sox, 2008-09; Mets, 2010-12; and Mariners, 2013. Bay was a three-time All Star and one-time Silver Slugger winner. He finished his career with a .266 average, 222 home runs and 754 RBI. Bay topped 100 RBI in four seasons, scored 100 or more runs in three campaigns and hit 30+ home runs four times.
Jason Bay’s Best Season: In 2005, Bay was an All Star with the Pirates. He played in all 162 games, hitting .a career high .306, with 32 home runs, 101 RBI, 110 runs scored and 21 stolen bases.
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Lance Berkman – (Outfield/First Base, 1999-2013) … First year on the ballot.
Lance Berkman – one of Houston’s “Killer B’s” – provided dependable power for the Astros (1999-2010). He also played for the Yankees (2010), Cardinals (2011-12) and Rangers (2013). Berkman was a five-time All Star, whose career line was .293-366-1,234. He also hit 422 doubles (leading his league twice) and scored 1,146 runs. Berkman hit 30 or more home runs five times (a high of 42 in 2002); drove in 100+ runs in six seasons; scored 100+ runs in five campaigns; and hit over .300 five times.
Lance Berkman is one of only 21 MLB players to hit 55 or more doubles in a season.
Berkman also earns some support due to his .317-9-41 stat line in 52 post-season contests.
BBRT anticipates Berkman will get enough support to stay on the ballot for 2020.
Lance Berkman’s Best Season: In 2001, Berkman hit .331, with 34 home runs, 126 RBI, 110 runs scored and league-leading 55 doubles. I might note there are those who would pick his 2002 season, when he hit .292, with 42 long balls and led the NL with 128 RBI.
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Barry Bonds – (Outfield, 1986-2007) … Seventh year on the ballot, 56.4 percent a year ago.
Barry Bonds played for the Pirates (1986-1992) and the Giants (1993-2007). There is no doubt about Bond’s credentials – .298 average, 2,935 hits, MLB-record 762 home runs, 1,996 RBI, MLB-record 2,558 walks. He was also a 14-time All Star; 12-time Silver Slugger Award winner; his league’s MVP a record seven times; and an eight-time Gold Glove winner. In 2001, Bonds hit .328, with an MLB-record 73 home runs and 177 RBI. He drove in 100 or more runs 12 times and also scored 100 or more runs in a dozen seasons. And, I could go on and on.
Barry Bonds drew an MLB-record 688 intentional walks in his career. Second place? Albert Pujols, with 310. In 2004 alone, Bonds drew a recrod 120 intentional passes. He led his league in IBB 12 times.
Still, there are those PED’s – an elephant in the room that I think will keep Bonds out of the Hall for at least another year (and probably until his final year on the ballot). Eventually, the dam will break and we will see some of the major stars now under a PED cloud take places in the Hall. BBRT is not ready to cast that vote yet – and I don’t think 75 percent of the BBWAA is either. We can expect Bonds back on the ballot next year (he may top 60 percent this year).
Barry Bonds’ Best Season: In 2001, Bonds crushed an all-time record 73 home runs, while hitting .328, driving in 137 runs, scoring 129 – all while drawing 177 walks.
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Roger Clemens – (RHP/Starter, 1984-2007) … Seventh year on the ballot, 57.3 percent last year.
Roger Clemens pitched for the Red Sox (1984-1996), Blue Jays (1997-1998), Yankees (1999-2003, 2007) and Astros (2004-2006). Clemens has Hall-worthy stats: 354 wins (ninth all-time), 4,672 strikeouts (third all-time), an MLB-record seven Cy Young Awards and the 1986 AL MVP Award. He was a five-time 20-game winner (led the league in wins four times), seven-time ERA leader, five-time league leader in strikeouts, and six-time leader in shutouts. He won the AL pitching Triple Crown (Wins/ERA/Strikeouts) three times. Clemens also has 12 post-season wins, with 173 strikeouts in 199 post-season innings.
Roger Clemens shares the record for strikeouts in a nine-inning game (20) with Kerry Wood and Max Scherzer. Clemens is the only pitcher to achieve 20 whiffs in a nine-inning game twice.
Roger Clemens Best Season: Lots to choose from here. Like 21-6, 1.93 in 1990 – or 1987, with a 20-9 record, 2.97 ERA, 18 complete games and seven shutouts. I take 1986. Clemens went 24-4. 2.48 and won both the Cy Young (his first) and AL MVP Awards for the Red Sox. He led the AL in wins, winning percentage (.857) and earned run average. He was fifth in innings pitched (254); second in strikeouts (238);
Yes, he’s got the numbers (those listed and more), but the PED controversy seems to stand between him and the Hall. Don’t think the BBWAA is ready yet, but he’ll continue on the ballot – and will likely gain a bit of ground on that 75 percent requirement.
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Freddy Garcia – (RHP, 1999-2013) … First year on the ballot.
Freddy Garcia got off to a blazing start, going 17-8, 4.07 as a rookie (1999) with the Mariners – pitching 201 1/3 innings and fanning 170. He went on to a 15-season MLB career and a final stat line of 156-108, 4.15. Garcia, a two-time All Star topped fifteen wins in five seasons (a high of 18 in 2001). He struck out 1,621 batters in 2,264 innings.
Garcia pitched for the Mariners (1999-2004), White Sox (2004-06, 2009-10), Phillies (2007), Tigers (3008), Yankees (2011-12), Orioles (2013) and Braves (2013). A nice career, not likely enough numbers to stay on the ballot.
Freddy Garcia started games in the post-season for the Mariners, White Sox, Yankees and Braves – going 6-3, 3.26 in 11 starts.
Freddy Garcia’s Best Season: In 2001 Garcia went 18-6, with an AL-lowest (among qualifiers) 3.05 earned run average. He also fanned 163 batters in a league-leading 238 2/3 innings – finishing third in the Cy Young Award balloting.
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Jon Garland – (RHP, 2000-2011, 2013) … First year on the ballot.
Jon Garland pitched in 13 MLB seasons. He toiled for the White Sox (2000-2007), Angels (2008), Diamondbacks (2009), Dodgers (2009, 2011), Padres (2010) and Rockies (2013). He was an All Star once, an 18-game winner twice (2005-06) and topped 200 innings pitched in six seasons. For his career, Garland was 136-125, 4.37, fanning 1,156 batters in 2,151 innings. In the 2005 post-season, Jon Garland started two games for the White Sox – going 1-0, 2.25, giving up just 11 hits, three walks and four earned runs, while striking out 11 in sixteen innings.
Jon Garland’s Best Season: With the White Sox in 2005, Garland went 18-10, 3.50 and led the AL with three shutouts.
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Travis Hafner – (First Base/DH, 2002-2013) … First year on the ballot.
Travis Hafner launched 213 home runs in 12 MLB seasons – including a career-high 42 with the Indians in 2006. He drove in 100 or more runs in four consecutive campaigns (2004-2007), hitting 127 home runs in that span and topping .300 in batting average in three of the four seasons. His career stat line was .273-213-731 in 1,183 games. He played for the Rangers (2002), Indians (2003- 2012) and Yankees (2013). A likely one-ballot player.
Travis Hafner led the AL in hit by pitch in 2004, being plunked 17 times.
Travis Hafner’s Best Season: In 2005, Hafner hit .308, with 42 home runs, 117 RBI and 100 runs scored in 129 games.
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Andruw Jones – (Outfield, 1996-2012) … Second year on the ballot, 7.3% in 2018.
Andruw Jones played for the Braves (1996-2007), Dodgers (2008), Rangers (2009), White Sox (2010) and Yankees (2011-2012). In a 17-season career – primarily patrolling centerfield – he won ten Gold Gloves (consecutively, 1998-2007). At the plate, he hit .254, with 434 home runs, 1,289 RBI and 1,204 runs scored. He topped 25 home runs in ten seasons (six over thirty and a league-leading and career-high of 51 in 2005). He scored 100 or more runs four times, drove in 100+ five times and stole twenty or more bases in a season four times.
Andrew Jones’ Best Season: In 2005, Jones hit only .263, but led the NL in home runs (51) and RBI (128) – finishing second in the MVP voting to Albert Pujols (.330-41-117).
Jones appeared in 76 post-season games, hitting .273, with ten home runs and 34 RBI.
In the 1996 World Series, Andruw Jones – just 19-years-old – hit .400 (8-for-20) with two home runs and six RBI, becoming the youngest player to hit for the distance in the Fall Classic.
Jones’ ten Gold Gloves work in his favor, but – over the long haul – that .254 average (he only hit .300 or better once and over .270 only four times) will dampen his HOF chances. Still, BBRT believe he deserves more support. He should get enough support to stay on the ballot for 2020.
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Ted Lilly (LHP/Starter, 1999-2013) … First year on the ballot.
Ted Lilly was a two-time All Star who went 130-113 in fifteen MLB seasons. He took the mound for the Expos (1999), Yankees (2000-02), A’s (2002-03), Blue Jays (2005-06), Cubs (2007-10) and Dodgers (2011013). Lilly won 15 or more games in a season three times; ten or more nine times (with a high of 17 wins in 2008). Lilly struck out 1,681 batters in 1,982 2/3 innings.
Ted Lilly was the starting pitcher for Team USA for two games in the 2009 World Baseball Classic.
Ted Lilly’s Best Season: In 2007, Lilly went 15-8, 3.83 in 34 starts, throwing a career-high 207 innings, walking 55 and fanning 174.
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Derek Lowe – (RHP/Starter/Reliever, 1997-2013) First Year on the ballot.
Derek Lowe pitched in 17 MLB seasons moving between a starting and bullpen role (377 starts and 303 relief appearances). He has the distinction of leading the American League in saves (42 in 2000) and the National League in wins (16 in 2006) – as a result, he also was an All Star as both a closer and a starter. Lowe’s final stat line was 176-157, 4.03 – with 86 saves. He fanned 1,722 batters in 2,671 1/3 innings pitched. He also led his league in games finished as a reliever once (64 in 2000) and games started four times (35 in 2005, 34 in 2008, 2009 and 2011).
Lowe won 15 or more games in a season five times and was a 20-game winner (21-8 in 2002). Lowe also pitched a no-hitter (for the Red sox against the Devil Rays on April 27, 2002 – walking one and fanning six as Boston won 10-0). Not enough here for election, but he could get enough to stay on the ballot for another year. BBRT thinks it will be close. Lowe pitched for the Mariners (1997), Red Sox (1997-2004), Dodgers (2005-08), Braves (2009—11), Indians (2012), Yankees (2012) and Rangers (2013).
Derek Lowe was an American League All Star as both a closer (Red Sox 2000) and a starter (Red Sox 2002).
Derek Lowe’s Best Season: A toss up here. In 2000, with the Red Sox, Lowe went 4-4, 2.56 with a league-leading 42 saves. In 2002, still in Boston, he went 21-8, 2.58 in 32 starts,
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Darren Oliver – (LHP/Starter/Reliever 1993-2013) … First year on the ballot.
Darren Oliver spent more of the first 12 of his twenty seasons as a starter (228 starts in 306 appearances) going 87-79, 5.07. He lasted another eight seasons as a reliever (one start in 460 appearance), going 31-19, 2.95. The end result? A 118-98, 4.51 record with seven saves and 1,259 whiffs in 1,915 innings. Not enough to stay on the ballot – those years are a starter diminish his chances for holding over. Oliver pitched for the Rangers (1993-98, 2000-01, 2010-11), Cardinals (1998-99), Red Sox (2002), Rockies (2003), Marlins (2004), Astros (2004), Mets (2006), Angels (2009) and Blue Jays (2012-13).
Darren Oliver was the first pitcher to take the mound in a regular-season interleague game – starting for the Rangers against the Giants on June 12, 1997. He took the loss in that game, going 7 2/3 innings and giving up four runs on eight hits. San Francisco won 4-3.
Darren Oliver’s Best Season: In 1996, Lowe went 14-6, 4.66 in 30 starts for the Rangers. (I must admit, however, BBRT was drawn to his age-41 season in 2012, when he appeared in 62 games for the Blue jays and went 3-4, with a 2.06 earned run average, two saves and 52 strikeouts in 56 2/3 innings.
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Roy Oswalt – (RHP/Starter 2001-2013) … First year on the ballot.
In 13 MLB season, Roy Oswalt pitched for the Astros (2001-10), Phillies (2010-11), Rangers (2012) and Rockies (2013). He started strong, going 14-3, 2.73 in his rookie season, leading the NL in winning percentage (.824) and striking out 144 batters in (versus just 24 walks) in 141 2/3 innings. He finished second in the Rookie of the Year balloting to the Cardinals’ slugger Albert Pujols, who went .329-37-130 in his rookie campaign.
Oswalt went on to become a three-time All Star and two-time twenty-game winner. He led his league in wins once, winning percentage once and earned run average once. Oswalt pitched 200+ innings in seven seasons (a high of 241 2/3 in 2005). He won 15 or more games in five campaigns and had an ERA under 3.00 in five seasons. For his career, he was 163-102, 3.36 with 1,852 strikeouts in 2,245 1/3 innings, 20 complete games and eight shutouts.
Oswalt was also a solid post-season pitcher – 5-2, 3.73 in 13 appearances (11 starts). He has a chance to stay on the ballot, but it should be close.
Roy Oswalt was the MVP of the 2005 National League Championship Series, when he started two games (for the Astros) against the Cardinals, winning both and giving up just two runs in 14 innings.
Roy Oswalt’s Best Season: In 2005, with the Astros, Oswalt went 20-12, 2.94, with a career high four complete games.
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Juan Pierre – (Outfielder, 2000-2013) … First year on the ballot.
One thing you can say about Juan Pierre, he always showed up ready to play. In fact, Pierre led the NL in games played for five consecutive seasons (2003-07) – appearing in 162 contests each season. During his career, Pierre showed up on the leader board multiple times: five times leading his league in games played; three times in at bats; twice in base hits; once in triples; three times in stolen bases; four times in sacrifices; and once in hit by pitcher. He stole forty or more bases in a season, ten times (in his 14 seasons), topping sixty steals three times (a high of 68 in 2010). Pierre also collected 200+ hits in a campaign four times, hit .300 or better in six seasons and scored 100 or more runs in three seasons (90 or more in seven). Pierre’s career stat line: .295-18-517, with 614 steals (18th all-time) and 1,075 runs. Pierre played for the Rockies (2000-02), Marlins (2003-05, 2013), Cubs (2006), Dodgers (2008-09), White Sox (2010-11) and Phillies (2012).
Juan Pierre (among qualifiers) was the hardest National League to strikeout in six seasons and led the AL in at bats per strikeout twice.
In the post-season, Pierre put up a .304 average in 26 games.
Pierre, ultimately, might not have HOF credentials, but he deserves enough support to stay on the ballot for 2020.
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Placido Polanco – (Second Base/Third Base/Shortstop, 1998-2013) … First year on the ballot.
A steady fielder and hitter, Polanco put up a .297 average over 16 seasons – and also picked up three Gold Gloves and a Silver Slugger Award. The two-time All Star collected 2,142 base hits and topped .300 in five season and collected 200 hits in one campaign. His final stat line was .297-104-723, with 1,009 runs scored. He provided considerable versatility, starting 947 games at 2B; 666 at 3B; 82 at SS – playing for the Cardinals (1998-2002), Phillies (2002-05, 2010-12), Tigers (2005-09) and Marlins (2013).
Placido Polanco is one of only two players to win Gold gloves at multiple positions. Polanco won in 2007 and 2009 at second base and in 2011 at third base. Darin Erstad is the other, winning as an outfielder in 2000 and 2002 and as a first baseman in 2004.
Polanco played in 38 post-season games, hitting .248, with 13 RBI and 11 runs scored.
Placido Polanco’s Best Season: In 2007, playing for the Tigers, Polanco won a Gold Glove at 2B and hit .341 (third in the AL), with 200 hits, nine home runs, 67 RBI and 105 runs scored.
I’d like to see Polanco stay on the ballot, but I fear it’s not in the cards. But, looking at the stats, he was a pretty good player to have on your team.
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Manny Ramirez – (Outfield, 1993-2011) – Third Year on the ballot, 22.0 percent last year.
Manny Ramirez played 19 MLB seasons, collecting 2,574 hits, a .312 batting average, 555 home runs (15th all-time) and 1,831 RBI (19th all-time). Ramirez was a 12-time All Star and led the AL in average (2002), home runs (2004) and RBI (1999) once each. Ramirez won nine Silver Slugger Awards, including eight consecutive (1999-2006), hit .285 with 29 home runs in 111 post season games and was the 2004 World Series MVP. He hit 30 or more home runs in ten seasons (five of 40+). Ramirez played in 111 post-season games, going .285-29-78 – and was the MVP of the 2007 World Series (for Boston) after hitting .412 with one home run and four RBI in four games.
Manny Ramirez’ 29 post-season home runs are first all-time, while his 78 post-season RBI rank second.
Ramirez clearly put up HOF-caliber numbers, but two PED-related suspensions continue to hurt his chances. (He dropped from 23.8 percent in 2018 to 22.0 percent last year). Not this year, but he’ll be back for another shot. Ramirez played for the Indians (1993-2000), Red Sox (2001-2008), Dodgers 2009-2010) and Rays (2011).
Manny Ramirez’ Best Season: In 1999, with Cleveland, Ramirez hit .333, with 44 home runs and 165 RBI (14th most in a season all-time) in 140 games.
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Scott Rolen – (Third Base, 1996-2012) … Second year on the ballot, 10.2 percent in 2018.
Scott Rolen played for the Phillies (1996-2002), Cardinals (2002-2007), Blue Jays (2008-2009) and Reds (2009-2012). The seven-time All Star (including in two of his final three seasons) flashed leather and lumber, collecting eight Gold Gloves (one Silver Slugger) and rapping 316 home runs. He finished with a .281 average, 316 home runs, 1,287 RBI, 1,211 runs scored and 188 stolen bases. Rolen hit 25 or more home runs seven times, with a high of 34 in 2005. He also put up five 100+ RBI seasons, scored 100+ runs in two campaigns and reached double digits in steals five times. He was the NL Rookie of the Year in 1997 (.283-21-92, with 16 steals).
Only Brooks Robinson (16) and Mike Schmidt (10) have more Gold Gloves at third base than Scott Rolen’s eight.
Rolen hit .220, with five home runs and 12 RBI in 39 post-season games. Not a first-ballot inductee, but deserves to stay on the ballot for another round – and BBRT expects he will.
Scott Rolen’s Best Season: In 2004, with the Cardinals, Rolen hit career highs in average, home runs and RBI (.314-34-124) and won a Gold Glove.
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Curt Schilling – (Starting Pitcher , 1988-2007) … Seventh year on the ballot, 51.2 percent last year.
Curt Schilling pitched for the Orioles (1988-1990), Astros (1991), Phillies (1992-2000), Diamondbacks (2000-2003) and Red Sox (2004-2007). Schilling was a six-time All Star, with 216 career wins (three seasons of 20 or more wins) over a 20-season MLB career. He recorded the 15th most career MLB strikeouts at 3,116 (three seasons of 300 or more whiffs), led his league in wins twice, complete games four times, innings pitched twice and strikeouts twice. He was also the 2001 World Series co-MVP – and has an impressive 11-2, 2.23 ERA post-season record (19 starts).
Curt Schilling is one half of the only tandem of teammates to strike out 300 batters in the same season. In 2002, Schilling fanned 316 batters for the Diamondbacks, while teammate Randy Johnson whiffed 324.
He is on the cusp for the HOF – reaching 250 wins would have helped. However, his outspoken views, Mike Mussina’s 270-win total (likely he will get in before Schilling) and the lack of a Cy Young Award may be working against Schilling’s vote-getting capacity.
Curt Schilling’s Best Season: In 2001, Schilling went 22-6 for the Diamondbacks (with a 2.98 ERA). That year, he lead the league in wins, starts (35), complete games (six), innings pitched (256 2/3).
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Gary Sheffield … (Outfield/Designated Hitter/Third Base/Shortstop, 1988-2009) … Fifth year on the ballot, 11.1 percent last year.
Gary Sheffield played for the Brewers (1988-1991), Padres (1992-1993), Marlins (1993-19998), Dodgers (1998-2001); Braves (2002-2003), Yankees (2004-2006) Tigers (2008) and Mets (2009). Sheffield was a nine-time All Star (in 22 MLB seasons) and five-time Silver Slugger Award winner. He launched 509 career home runs (topped 30 home runs in a season eight times, with a high of 43 in 2000); maintained a .292 career average (hit .300+ in eight seasons); and collected 1,676 RBI (28th all-time). He also won the 1992 NL batting title (.330); topped 100 RBI eight times; and scored 100 or more runs in a season seven times.
Gary Sheffield is one of only four players to hit MLB home runs as teenagers and in their 40’s. The others are Ty Cobb, Rusty Staub and Alex Rodriguez.
Gary Sheffield’s Best Season: In 1996 (Marlins), Sheffield hit .314, with 42 home runs, 120 RBI, 188 runs scored and 16 steals.
Sheffield appeared in 44 post-season games, hitting .248, with six home runs and 19 RBI.
Sheffield has the offensive numbers, but defensive questions and the shadow of PEDs are likely to keep him on the outside looking in. He should return to the ballot next year, but it’s not a guarantee – since he dropped from 13.3 percent in 2017 to 11.1 percent in 2018. Not a good sign.
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Sammy Sosa – (Outfield, 1989-2007) … Seventh year on the ballot, 7.8 percent last year.
Sammy Sosa played for the Rangers (1989, 2007), White Sox (1989-1991), Cubs (1992-2004) and Orioles (2005). Sosa hit 609 home runs (9th all-time) in 18 MLB seasons – winning two HR titles, topping sixty three times and also hitting 50 one year. In the four seasons from 1998 to 2001, Sosa averaged 60 home runs and 149 RBI per season. His career numbers include a .273 average, 609 home runs, 1,667 RBI (30th all-time), 1,475 runs scored and 234 stolen bases (a high of 36 steals in 1993). Sosa was the 1998 NL MVP (Cubs), led his league in home runs twice, runs scored three times and RBI twice.
Sammy Sosa has the most 60-home run season in MLB history with three – yet he did not lead the league in home runs in any of them. In 1998, he hit 66 home runs (Mark McGwire hit 70); in 1999, Sosa launched 63 (McGwire had 65), and, in 2001, he hit 64 (Barry Bonds hit 73). Talk about unfortunate timing. .
Sammy Sosa’s Best Season: In 1998 (Cubs), Sosa hit .308, with 66 home runs, a league-leading 158 RBI and a league-leading 134 runs scored – and even tossed in 18 stolen bases.
Sosa played in 15 post-season contests, hitting .245-2-7.
Why is the seven-time All Star not in the Hall? The PED shadow continues as a shadow over his chances. At 7.8 percent last year, he’s getting dangerously close to dropping off the ballot.
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Miguel Tejada – (Shortstop/Third Base, 1997-2011, 2013) … First year on the ballot.
Miguel Tejada played 2,171 games in his 16-season MLB career – A’s (1997-2003), Orioles (2004-07, 2010), Astros (2008-09), Padres (2010), Giants (2011) and Royals (2013). Five times he led his league in games played – seven times playing in at least 160 contests in a season. He collected 2,407 hits, while putting up a .285 career average – with 307 home runs, 1,302 RBI and 1,230 runs scored. Tejada – a six-time All Star and 2002 AL MVP – led his league in doubles twice and RBI once. He hit 30 or more home runs four times, drove in 100 or more runs in six seasons, scored 100 or more runs in four campaigns and collected 200+ base hits three times. From June 2, 2000 to June 21, 2007, Miguel Tejada played in 1,152 consecutive games – MLB’s sixth-longest such streak. He should stay on the ballot for 2020.
Miguel Tejada’s is one of only 25 MLB players to log a season of 150 or more runs batted in. Not bad for a shortstop.
Miguel Tejada’s Best Season: In 2004, Tejada hit .311, with 34 home runs and a league-leading 150 RBI for the Orioles. That season he also collected 203 hits and scored 107 runs.
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Billy Wagner – (LHP 1995-2010) … Fourth year on the ballot, 11.1 percent last year.
Billy Wagner played for the Astros (1995-2003), Phillies (2004-2005), Mets (2006-2009), Red Sox (2009) and Braves (2010).Wagner was a seven-time All Star, who amassed 422 saves (sixth all-time) in a 16-season MLB career. He had nine seasons of 30 or more saves; a career ERA of 2.31; 1,196 career strikeouts in 903 innings; and 47-40 won-lost record.
A natural right-hander, Wagner learned to pitch left-handed after breaking his right arm as a youngster.
Billy Wagner’s Best Season: In 2003, Wagner went 1-4, 1.78 for the Astros, saving 44 games and fanning 105 batters in 86 innings.
BBRT thinks Wagner belongs in the Hall (based on his 400+ saves) – and hopes that momentum starts to build. However, considering that Lee Smith – with his 478 saves – never reached 75 percent, the odds are not in Wagner’s favor. However, Mariano Rivera’s pending election could help all closers down the road. I expect Wagner will manage to hang in for a spot on the 2020 ballot.
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Vernon Wells – (Outfield, 2999-2013) … First year on the ballot.
Vernon Wells probably will not get the five percent necessary to stay on the ballot – but BBRT will be rooting for him. Wells, was a three-time All Star, three-time Gold Glover in CF (one Silver Slugger), who also hit 270 home runs and stole 109 bases. He hit .270 for his career, but .300 or better in four seasons, twenty or more home runs eight times, drove in at least 100 runs three times and scored 100 or more runs in three seasons. He also led his league in hits, doubles and total bases once each. Wells played for the Blue Jays (1999-2010), Angels (2011-12) and Yankees (2013).
In 2005, Vernon wells led AL centerfielders in assists (12); double plays (4).
Vernon Wells’ Best Season: In 2003, with the Blue Jays, Wells hit .317, with 33 home runs, 117 RBI, 118 runs scored – while also topping the junior circuit in base hits with (215), doubled (49) and total bases (373).
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Kevin Youkilis – (First Base/Third Base, 2004-2013) … First year on the ballot.
Kevin Youkilis was a three-time All Star and one-time Gold Glover in ten MLB seasons. His career line was .281-150-618, with 1,053 hits and 653 runs scored. He topped 20 homers in two seasons, 100 RBI once and reached 100 runs scored once. He also was a .300+ hitter in three consecutive seasons (2008-10, when he went .308-75-271 and earned two of his three All Star recognitions). Youkilis played for the Red sox (2004-2012), White Sox (2012) and Yankees (2013).
In the 2007, American League Championship Series, Kevin Youkilis hit .500 (14 for 28) with three home runs, seven RBI and 10 runs scored – as Boston tipped Cleveland in seven games. Josh Beckett, who started and won two games in the Series (giving up just three runs in 14 innings), was the ALCS MVP.
In 29 post-season games, Youkilis hit a healthy .306, with six home runs and 17 RBI.
Kevin Youkilis’ Best Season: In 2008, with Boston, Youkilis hit .312, with 29 home runs and 115 RBI – all career highs.
Youkilis needed a few more solid seasons to move on to the 2020 ballot.
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Michael Young … (Shortstop/Second Base/Third Base, 2000-2013) … First year on the ballot
Michael Young was a versatile and capable infielder who won a Gold Glove at shortstop in 2008. He was a seven-time All Star and .300 career hitter (.300-185-1,030). Young hit .300+ in seven seasons – wining the AL batting crown at .331 in 2005. He topped 200 hits in a season six times, leading the AL with 221 in 2005 and 213 in 2011. Young also topped 20 home runs in four seasons, 100 RBI twice and 100 runs scored four times. Young played for the Rangers (2000-2012), Phillies (2013); and Dodgers (2013).
In his career, Michael Young started 776 games at shortstop, 457 at third base, 433 at second base and 78 at 1B.
Michael Young’s’ Best Season: In .2005, with the Rangers, Young led the AL with a .331 average and 221 hits. He also drove in 91 runs and scored 114.
Young didn’t fare as well in the post-season as in the regular season. In 43 post-season games, he hit.238, with three home runs and 19 RBI.
If BBRT had an 11th vote, Young would have been a leading candidate. I’m hoping he stays on the ballot, but I’m afraid he may fall short.
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