The Baseball Hall of Fame's First-Time Candidates: A Controversial Journey
Making it onto the Baseball Hall of Fame ballot is an achievement in itself, but this year, only a select few newcomers have earned their spot. While none are expected to be elected immediately, the real challenge lies in surpassing the 5% cutoff point and maintaining their presence on the ballot long enough to build momentum. Just look at Andruw Jones, Scott Rolen, Billy Wagner, and Todd Helton, who all managed to stick around and eventually secure their places in Cooperstown.
Last year, we saw 14 first-timers on the ballot, with Ichiro Suzuki and CC Sabathia successfully elected. Felix Hernandez and Dustin Pedroia also managed to clear the 5% mark, but the majority of newcomers faced a one-and-done scenario. However, there's good news for this year's first-timers as ballot space has opened up due to the departure of veterans like Curt Schilling, Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, and Gary Sheffield, who all had impressive polling numbers.
Among this year's candidates, Cole Hamels seems to be the front-runner to surpass the 5% hurdle. But let's not forget the other 11 first-time players on this ballot; they all deserve recognition for coming so close to joining the elite 1% enshrined in the Hall of Fame. Let's delve into the remarkable legacies left by these nearly legendary players.
Ryan Braun: A Career with an Asterisk
The Brewers' outfielder had an exceptional career, but it's marred by a major controversy. Braun is one of only 18 players in baseball history to achieve the rare feat of 350 home runs and 200 stolen bases, and he did it all with just one team. However, his career is defined by a scandalous incident in 2012 when he denied using performance-enhancing drugs despite testing positive. His dishonest behavior and subsequent admission of PED use cast a dark shadow over his achievements.
Shin-Soo Choo: The Consistent Performer
Choo crafted a long and lucrative career, consistently delivering solid performances. While he never reached the heights of greatness, he was a reliable on-base machine that winning teams could depend on. His statistical comparison to Jayson Werth highlights their similarities in home runs, RBI, OBP, and earnings. Choo's ability to get on base and draw walks made him a valuable asset, even if he struggled against left-handed pitchers and in the postseason.
Edwin Encarnacion: The Parrot and the Power
Encarnacion's unique home run trot, immortalized by a parrot meme, is what initially gets him on the ballot. His 424 home runs, including eight straight seasons with at least 30 homers, are a testament to his power. Only a select few players, including Babe Ruth and Mike Schmidt, have achieved this feat without being linked to PEDs. Encarnacion's longevity and consistent power production make him a strong candidate for the Hall of Fame.
Gio Gonzalez: The Left-Handed Ace
Gonzalez is the last left-handed pitcher to win over 20 games and throw 199 innings in a single season. His beautiful curveball, taught to him by his father, and his durable low-effort delivery kept him in the game for years. With 131 wins and 1,933 innings pitched, Gonzalez is in elite company, as only 20 other lefties have achieved similar numbers in the past 30 years.
Alex Gordon: The Royals' Loyal Warrior
Gordon dedicated 14 years of his career to the Royals, winning eight Gold Gloves and appearing in three All-Star Games. He is also the subject of a popular 'What If?' scenario regarding a crucial play in the 2014 World Series. Gordon's loyalty and defensive prowess make him a fan favorite, and his ability to adapt and improve over the years is commendable.
Cole Hamels: Underappreciated Greatness
Hamels' career numbers speak for themselves. With 163 wins and an ERA+ of 123, he joins an exclusive club of left-handed pitchers in the Hall of Fame or on their way there. His consistent performance and longevity make him a strong contender for Cooperstown.
Matt Kemp: A Career Cut Short
Kemp's 2011 season was a highlight, leading the league in WAR, runs, home runs, RBI, total bases, and OPS+. However, his career was cut short due to injuries, including a notorious incident where his lack of hustle resulted in a twisted ankle. Kemp's honesty about his lack of effort is commendable, but it also highlights the fragility of a player's career.
Howie Kendrick: The Hero of Nationals' History
Kendrick's two-run homer off Will Harris in the 2019 World Series Game 7 is a pivotal moment in Nationals' history. His opposite-field homer, a rarity for him, turned the game in their favor. Kendrick's ability to adapt and improve his hitting, thanks to then-Nationals hitting coach Kevin Long, is a testament to his dedication.
Nick Markakis: The Consistent Performer
Markakis' career WAR of 33.7 is impressive, especially considering he attended Young Harris College, the setting for the film 'Trouble with the Curve.' His defensive prowess and consistent performance, playing in 160 games seven times, make him a reliable corner outfielder. Markakis' longevity and dedication to the game are admirable.
Daniel Murphy: The Late Bloomer
Murphy's story is one of late-career success. With the guidance of Kevin Long and Pat Roessler, Murphy transformed into a power hitter, slugging .449 and leading the league in slugging percentage. His ability to adapt and improve his hitting mechanics, combined with his consistent performance in his thirties, make him a strong candidate for the Hall of Fame.
Hunter Pence: The Marionette Marvel
Pence's unique playing style, akin to a marionette, was a result of an undiagnosed spinal condition called Scheuermann's Disease. This condition explained his broad, curved back and herky-jerky movements. Despite his unusual physique, Pence was a true 'glue guy,' making teams better with his hustle, unselfishness, and positive attitude. His two World Series titles with the Giants are a testament to his impact.
Rick Porcello: The Control Master
Porcello's ability to win 22 games while walking only 32 batters is a testament to his control and command. His smooth mechanics and early success as a young workhorse make him a rare breed in the live-ball era. Porcello's early retirement at 31, with 150 wins, is a unique achievement, as few pitchers have accomplished this feat at such a young age.
These first-time candidates have left their mark on the game, and while some may face controversy or criticism, their contributions to baseball history are undeniable. Who do you think deserves a spot in the Hall of Fame? Let's discuss in the comments and share our opinions on these nearly legendary players!
