Jul 19, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Miami Marlins hitting coach Barry Bonds (25) watches from the dugout against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Gregory J. Fisher-USA TODAY Sports /
The Baseball Hall of Fame is a place where the greatest players in baseball history are immortalized, their place in history certain. However, some of the best in MLB history remain outside those hallowed walls.
As the MLB is set to celebrate the careers of Ken Griffey Jr and Mike Piazza today, the focus of the baseball universe has shifted once again to Cooperstown, New York. There, in the alleged birthplace of the game that we know and love, the Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum is ready to accept the two latest players to be immortalized.
And yet, while the Hall of Fame houses quite a few stellar players from the history of the MLB, there are those who have yet to be inducted. Those players who, over the course of their careers, broke records, won awards and even changed the complexion of the game. Yet, they remain outside of Cooperstown.
So, let us look at those 25 best players who are eligible for the Hall of Fame, but are not yet enshrined. Before we do – a few guidelines. Each of these players has either appeared on the ballot, or is currently listed. This means that recently retired greats like Derek Jeter and active players like Albert Pujols are not eligible for these rankings.
Likewise, this leaves Pete Rose, Shoeless Joe Jackson and Eddie Ciccotte off the list. Until the time comes when they are reinstated by the MLB, something that may never happen, they cannot be inducted. While they were great players, they are also, unfortunately, ineligible for the list. Each player will be listed with notable statistics, as well as the highest vote percentage they received during their time on the ballot.
Now that the criteria are out of the way, let us take a trip through baseball history and look back at some of the greatest players left outside of the Hall of Fame.
A look at Gavvy Cravath’s overall numbers would make him appear to be a rather weak candidate for the Hall of Fame, but considering that he finally got a chance in the MLB at age 31, his eleven year career was quite impressive.
Cravath was a stellar hitter in the Pacific Coast League, routinely leading the league in batting average and home runs. However, with the Boston Red Sox having a tremendous outfield, he only had brief appearances in the Majors until he was sold to the Philadelhia Phillies by the Minneapolis Millers in the American Association.
Finally given the opportunity to showcase his skills, Cravath turned into a star. The premier slugger of the National League in the 1910’s, he led the league in homers six times. Cravath also led the NL in RBI, on base percentage and slugging twice. His career 151 OPS+ ranks 32th all time, ahead of players like Mike Schmidt, Willie McCovey and Eddie Mathews.
The greatest slugger in what was the true Dead Ball Era, one has to wonder what type of career Cravath would have had if he reached the Majors sooner. Given his prodigious power, it may have been Cravath, and not Roger Connor, that Babe Ruth would have passed for the home run record.
One of the forgotten stars in the early part of baseball history, Gavvy Cravath was a slugger without peer, at least until Ruth came along and changed the game.
Rick Reuschel: 214-191, 3.37 ERA, 1.275 WHiP, 68.2 WAR, 0.4% (1997)
When one thinks of a Hall of Fame caliber pitcher, Rick Reuschel is not the type of player that comes to mind. After all, he only had one 20 win season, never won a Cy Young award or received an MVP vote, and only made three All Star Games. However, that does not change the fact that Reuschel was one of the more valuable pitchers of his time.
A workhorse for some mediocre Chicago Cubs teams, Reuschel was a surprisingly solid athlete, despite his portly build. He was used as a pinch hitter and a pinch runner, and was an excellent fielder, winning two Gold Glove awards. He was a solid piece to slot in to the middle of a rotation.
Yet, Reuschel was far more than that. Based on several metrics, he was actually a top 100 player in MLB history, and one of the best pitchers in the history of the game. His 68.2 WAR is 34th in MLB history for pitchers, ahead of such unquestioned Hall of Famers as Jim Palmer, Bob Feller, and Juan Marichal. Among pitchers not already enshrined, Reuschel ranks sixth, and the other five will appear later on this list.
Overall, Reuschel’s 70.0 WAR, accounting for his defense and ability with the bat, places him 98th in the history of the game. Only 15 players not in the Hall rank higher, and of those, five are ineligible. Regardless of what his overall numbers may say, Reuschel was a stellar pitcher.
In fact, the reason why his numbers are so deceiving has to do with his unearned runs. Reuschel had 164 unearned runs, accounting for 10.9% of the total runs scored against him in his career. Even cutting that total in half could dramatically change his won-loss record, giving him a better chance at the recognition he deserves.
One of the better players in MLB history, Rick Reuschel was criminally underrated throughout his career. With the value he provided on the field, he certainly has a case for the Hall of Fame.
Graig Nettles: .248/.329/.421, 390 home runs, 1314 RBI, 68.0 WAR, 8.3% (1994)
A stellar defensive third baseman, Graig Nettles was more than just a glove at the hot corner. He also hit with prodigious power, a combination that led many to think he would be a Hall of Fame player after he retired.
During the 1970’s, it was easy to understand why that was the prevailing thought. Nettles was frequently among the league leaders in homers, including his league leading 32 bombs in 1976. That power, along with his ability to draw a walk, helped make up for his low batting averages, as he provided plenty of value in the lineup.
What made him a truly special player, however, was his glove. Although Nettles only won two Gold Glove awards, he earned a great deal of notoriety for his defense due to his play in the postseason. As it was, that excellent defensive reputation was well deserved, as Nettles currently ranks second all time in assists and double plays as a third baseman, and is sixth in MLB history with 134 runs saved at the hot corner.
Several players have made the Hall of Fame due to their ability with the glove, such as Bill Mazeroski, Ozzie Smith and Ray Schalk. Yet Nettles was a far superior hitter to any of them, hitting for power and getting on base while displaying that same level of defense. Nettles may not have the same hardware, but historically, he was certainly on par with them.
Maybe Graig Nettles was not a Hall of Fame player with his bat. However, his ability with the golve cannot be discounted, making him a legitimate candidate for induction.
Ken Boyer: .287/.349/.462, 282 home runs, 1141 RBI, 62.8 WAR, 25.5% (1988)
From the middle of the 1950’s through the mid 1960’s, there may not have been a more complete third baseman than the St. Louis Cardinals Ken Boyer. A marvel with the bat and the glove, he was a key piece to the Cardinals success, and World Series championship in 1964.
A remarkably consistent hitter, once hitting exactly 24 home runs for four consecutive seasons, Boyer appeared to be well on his way to making the Hall of Fame. He was a seven time All Star, a five time Gold Glove winner, and won the 1964 MVP award, all within his first ten seasons. It was quite the impressive resume that he had built.
However, he could not hold up. Back issues began to plague the Cardinals star, and in 1965, he saw his production plummet across the board. Traded to the New York Mets after the season, he spent a year and a half in Queens before joining the White Sox and the Dodgers in a part time role. He was still about league average with the bat, but those back problems hampered his ability to remain in the lineup.
There is a chance that Boyer could end up in Cooperstown. He has appeared on the Veteran’s Committee ballot in 2011 and 2014 as part of the Golden Era, and may well have a chance again next year. In being judged by his peers, and those who saw him during his prime, Boyer may eventually get the recognition he deserves.
Ken Boyer appeared to be a certain Hall of Famer until those back issues derailed his career. Yet, despite seeing his production curtailed due to injury, he still has a solid case for enshrinement.
David Cone: 194-126, 3.46 ERA, 1.256 WHiP, 2668 strikeouts, 62.5 WAR, 3.9% (2009)
In his career, David Cone won a Cy Young award, pitched a perfect game, made five All Star games, and won the Hutch award. Yet, he may best be remembered for the trade that brought him to the New York Mets, one of the more lopsided trades in baseball history.
Originally property of the Kansas City Royals, they sent him along to the New York Mets in exchange for a package highlighted by 26 year old catcher Ed Hearn. Unfortunately for Kansas City, Hearn suffered a major shoulder injury and only appeared in 13 games for the Royals. Meanwhile, Cone would begin to blossom into a star with the Mets, making his first All Star Game and leading the league in winning percentage in 1988.
Cone was also a proven winner, and an ace level pitcher on several championship teams. In his 15 year career, Cone made the postseason eight times, winning five World Series titles. He was a key part of the New York Yankees dynasty in the late 1990’s, coming through with a 2.12 ERA and a 1.213 WHiP in his six World Series appearances.
His perfect game occurred, fittingly enough, on Yogi Berra Day in the Bronx. Don Larsen threw out the first pitch, and Cone followed up by firing the only other perfect game in what could be considered interleague play, shutting down the Montreal Expos with both Larsen and Berra in attendance.
A pitcher who was one of the better pitchers of the 1990’s, and a key part of several championship teams, David Cone was better than a one and done player on the Hall of Fame ballot. He is, in fact, a borderline Hall of Famer and someone who deserved a lot more consideration.
During the heyday of the Cleveland Indians in the mid to late 1990’s, there were few players as exciting as Kenny Lofton. His amazing speed made him a terror on the basepaths and a joy to watch in center, where he routinely took extra bases away with ease.
A six time All Star, and a four time Gold Glove winner, Lofton finished as high as high as fourth in the MVP voting. He was a key part of the Indians resurgence, being acquired for Ed Taubensee and becoming a part of the youth movement with Manny Ramirez and Jim Thome. With Lofton on the bases in front of the young sluggers, the Indians were able to take the American League by storm, making two World Series appearances and being a perennial threat for the postseason.
Lofton also had a bit of power. He had double digit home runs seven times, and ranks 69th in Bill James Power/Speed Number metric, ahead of players like Tony Gwynn and Ichiro. While Lofton may have slowed down as age crept up on him, he was still an effective player and a solid leadoff man.
Although his production began to fall off, he was still considered a valuable asset for teams looking to contend. After the 2001 season, when Lofton became more of a baseball mercenary, he appeared in the postseason for the Giants, Cubs, Yankees and Dodgers before coming back to Cleveland to finish out his career. He never won a World Series, but Lofton’s veteran leadership and winning reputation were invaluable.
A classic speedster and a stellar defender, Kenny Lofton was a better all around player than we may have realized. He was certainly valuable to teams looking to contend.
Dwight Evans: .272/.370/.470, 385 home runs, 1384 RBI, 66.9 WAR, 10.4% (1998)
If Dwight Evans played during the Moneyball Era, or even a decade or two later, he may have been on the cusp of entering Cooperstown. Instead, his skillset was greatly underappreciated during his time.
In a career that spanned 20 years and saw Evans approach the 400 home run mark, he was consistently overshadowed, making only three All Star games. A stellar right fielder, Evans earned the respect of his peers with his excellent throwing arm, ranking in the top three in assists seven times and earning eight Gold Glove awards. Opposing runners quickly learned that to test Evans was a foolish proposition.
Yet, his offense, while vastly underappreciated, was just as good as his defense. An on base machine, Evans led the league in walks three times, and was even the Red Sox leadoff hitter despite a lack of speed. He was a dangerous hitter, hitting 20 or more home runs eleven times, and using that ability to get on base to help jumpstart the Red Sox offense.
That combination of power, contact and on base ability would play well these days. Teams value players that can get on base and work a pitch count, whereas stolen bases and home runs were far more important during his time. Evans was truly a player that the game was not ready for, a harbinger of the future of the MLB.
It might take the doings of the Veteran’s Committee, but Dwight Evans is a player that deserved more than three years on the ballot. In fact, he has a very good case for induction into the Hall of Fame.
Luis Tiant: 229-172, 3.30 ERA, 1.199 WHiP, 2416 strikeouts, 66.7 WAR, 30.9% (1988)
Luis Tiant appeared to be on his way out of baseball after arm injuries sapped his once dominating fastball. Released by the Twins during Spring Training in 1971, Tiant was snapped up by the Red Sox and remained an effective pitcher for another decade, turning into a junkballer who relied upon guile and deception.
Along the way, Tiant became a larger than life figure and a fan favorite with the Red Sox. He was known for his enormous moustache and love of cigars, his thick Spanish accent during interviews made him quite the popular player. Of course, it helped that, during the mid 1970’s, Tiant was one of the best starters in the game and a key part of the Red Sox run to the World Series in 1975.
Tiant’s Hall of Fame case is an interesting one. He certainly had the production to warrant a close look, and in his first year on the ballot in 1988, he received 30.9% of the vote. That would have appeared to be a good sign, as the fan favorite would have appeared to be the type of pitcher that would only pick up steam as he remained on the ballot.
Instead, Tiant dropped off remarkably. He lost over 20% of the vote in 1989 before bottoming out at 7.2% in 1991. While he did get some of those votes back, Tiant would never get over 20% again, reaching 18.0% in 2002, his 15th and final year on the ballot.
Luis Tiant went from being a flamethrower who appeared destined to be one of the greats in the game to a junkbllaer using deception. Yet, he was still remarkably effective, and has a solid case for the Hall of Fame.
Next: Hurt by a season long suspension
Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports /
Tony Mullane 284-220, 3.05 ERA, 1.237 WHiP, 67.8 WAR, has not received a vote for Hall of Fame
There are certain benchmarks that, if reached without suspicion of PED usage, lead to almost automatic induction into the Hall of Fame. A pitcher reaching 300 wins is one of those accomplishments, and is one that Tony Mullane fell just short of.
However, that did not need to be the case. Mullane likely missed that mark due to being suspended for the entirety of the 1885 season, as the American Association tried to force Mullane to remain on one squad. He had pitched on four different teams in four years, and after signing a contract with the Cincinnati Reds for 1885, the AA decided to make an example of him.
It is unfortunate, as Mullane was in the midst of a run of five consecutive seasons with 30 or more wins. With another 30 victories in the missing year, he would have easily been over 300 for his career, making his enshrinement a formality. Instead, he is known for having the third most career wins of anyone not inducted, following Roger Clemens and Bobby Mathews.
He was also a true fan favorite. Teams would schedule Mullane to pitch on ‘Ladies Day’ at the ballpark due to his good looks, as they attempted to draw more fans. Mullane was also an ambidextrous pitcher, and would throw with either hand. As he played in a day before gloves were commonplace, this was a distinct advantage over the hitter, as they had no idea where the ball would come from.
One of the more overlooked players from the 1800’s, Tony Mullane would have already been in the Hall of Fame if he had not stuck to his convictions in challenging the reserve clause. He certainly should not be punished for doing so.
Ted Simmons .285/.348/.437, 248 home runs, 1389 RBI, 2472 hits, 50.1 WAR, 3.7% (1994)
One of the greatest hitting catchers in MLB history, Ted Simmons was just as productive as Johnny Bench during their primes. Unfortunately, Simmons played on mostly awful teams, causing his accomplishments to have occurred in relative obscurity.
It is unfortunate, as Simmons was an offensive force behind the plate. His .285 batting average is amongst the best for a catcher in the history of the game, better than Bench or Carlton Fisk, and the equal of Yogi Berra. He trails only Ivan Rodriguez in doubles and hits by a catcher, and ranks ninth in career WAR for any backstop.
Simmons was certainly recognized for his accomplishments during his career. Playing in the National League at the same time as Bench, he still made eight All Star Games and finished in the top ten in the MVP ballot three times.
Yet, for as skilled as he was with the bat, Simmons was not a great defensive catcher, which may have hurt his candidacy. He was consistently amongst the league leaders in passed balls, and did not have a great arm. During a time when teams ran with reckless abandon, his defensive shortcomings could have played a large part in the way that the voters regarded his career.
Ted Simmons was an offensive force, and a player who was saddled with some mediocre ballclubs. With better team success, his accomplishments may have received the recognition they deserve.
Next: The milestones matter
Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports /
Bobby Mathews 297-248, 2.86 ERA, 1.237 WHiP, 1528 strikeouts, 55.1 WAR, has not received a vote for Hall of Fame
How much of a difference can three wins make in a career? For Bobby Mathews, those three victories may have made the difference between his being in the Hall of Fame, or his current status outside of Cooperstown.
Mathews holds the distinction of being the first pitcher to take the mound in Major League history when he took the mound for the Fort Wayne Kekiongas against the Cleveland Forest Citys on May 2, 1871. He would also become the first pitcher to get win as Fort Wayne took a 2-0 victory, in which Mathews pitched a complete game shutout. Mathews is also credited with throwing the first curveball in a Major League game, although Candy Cummings claimed that he invented the pitch.
As impressive as Mathews career was, it could have been even better. He missed both the 1878 and the 1880 seasons, likely due to injury given his ineffectiveness immediately before and after those missed seasons. However, he rebounded well enough to win exactly 30 games in three consecutive seasons from 1883 through 1885.
He was also an impressive control artist, walking only 532 batters in 4956 innings. This was after Mathews led the league in walks in 1872 and 1873, which accounted for over 20% of his career total. Indeed, his accomplishments were quite impressive, and would seemingly be worthy of enshrinement.
The problem was that Bobby Mathews dominated in the National Association and the American Association, two leagues that are often ignored by the gatekeepers of the Hall. Considered inferior to the National League, those accomplishments do not have the same cache that they would have if Mathews pitched in the National League. Nonetheless, Mathews remains overlooked, despite being one of the best pitchers in the 1800’s.
Considering that Curt Schilling has seen his support increase by over 20% in two years, and that he is now over 50% in votes for enshrinement, it seems likely that he will fall off this list relatively soon. Until then, the outspoken Schilling remains one of the best players in MLB history to be outside of the Hall of Fame.
The fact that Schilling is even a candidate for the Hall is a testament to his resiliency. He had a solid year in 1992, but struggled with injuries and relative mediocrity until his breakthrough in 1997 at age 30. In the next eleven years, Schilling was a six time All Star and finished second in the Cy Young voting three times.
He was also an excellent postseason pitcher. Remembered for gutting through the Bloody Sock Game, pitching shortly after having surgery to repair a torn tendon sheath to take Game Six of the ALCS over the New York Yankees. He also threw six solid innings in the World Series that year, leading to an injury marred 2005 campaign.
After his career ended, controversy has dogged Schilling. He was fired from his job at ESPN due to comments he made on social media, and his gaming studio, 38 Studios, went bankrupt and cost the state of Rhode Island $75 Million. Yet, those transgressions do not matter in the mind of the voters, as his performance, and vocal disparagement of PED users, will curry favor.
In the next couple of years, Curt Schilling seems likely to get into the Hall of Fame. It will certainly be well deserved.
Next: The greatest Designated Hitter in baseball history
Edgar Martinez .312/.418/.515, 309 home runs, 1261 RBI, 2247 hits, 68.3 WAR, 43.4% (2016)
Arguably the greatest designated hitter in the history of the MLB, Edgar Martinez’ exclusion from the Hall of Fame may well come down to his position.
Despite not becoming a regular until age 27, and missing most of his age 30 and 31 seasons due to injury, Martinez cemented himself as one of the best hitters in the game. A classic line drive hitter, he hit 512 doubles while wearing out the gaps in the Kingdome and, later, Safeco Field.
Slotted in the lineup with Ken Griffey Jr, Alex Rodriguez, and Jay Buhner, Martinez helped give the Mariners a truly formidable lineup during their glory days in the late 1990’s. He was also a relatively capable third baseman, saving 18 runs and performing at close to a league average rate in his 564 games at the hot corner.
The biggest problem with Martinez’ candidacy for the Hall of Fame is that he was a designated hitter. The voters for the Hall are loathe to put relievers into the game, and have steadfastly refused to put Martinez into Cooperstown. However, his vote count is increasing slowly, although he may need to wait until he is eligible for the Veteran’s Committee to be inducted.
Edgar Martinez was Mariners baseball for his career. The greatest designated hitter to play the game, he should also be the first DH in the Hall.
Kevin Brown 211-144, 3.28 ERA, 1.222 WHiP, 2397 strikeouts, 68.3 WAR, 2.1% (2011)
Perhaps one of the most underrated pitchers in recent times, Kevin Brown was an ace starter and very few people outside the game realized it.
A six time All-Star, Brown was one of the better pitchers of his day. He was consistently among the league leaders in wins, ERA, WHiP, and strikeouts, yet only finished in the top three in the Cy Young balloting twice. Those results were a microcosm of what his career was like, where he did not get the due he deserved.
Brown was a classic late bloomer, much like several others on the list. While he showed promise, Brown truly broke through at age 27, leading the American League in wins and innings pitched. From that point, until his late 30’s, Brown was one of the best pitchers in baseball, a fiery ace who would channel that anger and take it out on the opposition.
He also had to fight the perception that he was a bust after signing a high priced contract with the Dodgers. While he may not have led them to the postseason, Brown led the league in ERA and WHiP in 2000, and was still a solid pitcher at age 38, when he posted a 14-9 record with a 2.39 ERA and a 1.137 WHiP, making his final All Star Game that year.
Kevin Brown was one of the better pitchers of his time. Unfortunately, he just never received the recognition he deserved.
Larry Walker .313/.400/.565, 383 home runs, 1311 RBI, 230 stolen bases, 72.6 WAR, 22.9% (2012)
It is easy to dismiss Larry Walker’s production as a product of Coors Field. That, however, would be a disservice to Walker and his excellent career.
Even with the boost to his production that Walker received in Colorado, he was still considered an excellent player. He was a three time batting champion, a five time All Star and a four time Silver Slugger, and won the 1997 MVP award on the strength of his .366/.452/.720 batting line and league leading 49 home runs.
Yet, Walker was more than an offensive threat. He was also a stellar defensive player, winning seven Gold Glove awards and routinely ranking among the league leaders in assists and double plays. In his career, Walker ranks ninth with 40 double plays in right, 17th with 150 assists from right, and is eighth with 98 runs saved. He was truly an all around player.
In a way, Walker’s candidacy is similar to Edgar Martinez. Both have their accomplishments discounted, Martinez for being a designated hitter, and Walker due to playing a good portion of his career in Colorado. Yet, that does not tell the true story, as both were excellent players who just happened to be in those places.
An excellent player, Larry Walker was more than a product of Coors Field. Unfortunately, the voters may never realize how good of a player he actually was.
Next: The best player from the 1800's not inducted
Mandatory Credit: David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports /
Bill Dahlen .272/.358/.382, 1234 RBI, 2461 hits, 548 stolen bases, 75.2 WAR, 1.3% (1936)
Considered the greatest player of the 1800’s not currently inducted into the Hall of Fame, Bill Dahlen may get his due through the Veteran’s Committee.
A star player both with the bat and the glove, Dahlen was one of the best shortstops of his time. While his 975 errors are astonishingly high, that total was, in part, due to his impressive range. At the time, Dahlen was considered to be one of the best defensive shortstops, as he would get to balls that other players could not reach, making plays that seemed impossible.
He was also a stellar hitter during his time with the Cubs during the 1890’s. While his production did tail off after being traded, Dahlen was still an above average hitter, even leading the National League with 80 RBI in 1904 at 34 years old, the only time he would lead the league in any offensive category.
Yet, that does not change the player that Dahlen was. He was a solid hitter who was consitently among the league leaders in runs, stolen bases and doubles, as well as a batter who understood the value of a walk. Defensively, although the raw numbers may not back it up, he was equally adept, ranking fourth with 7505 assists and second with 4856 putouts.
Bill Dahlen’s combination of offensive skill and defensive ability were rare to find in the middle infield. Perhaps the greatest player of the 1800’s that is not yet in the Hall, he may get his due from the Veteran’s Committee.
Rafael Palmeiro .288/.371/.515, 569 home runs, 1835 RBI, 3020 hits, 71.6 WAR, 12.6% (2012)
Based on his career statistics, Rafael Palmeiro would have been a lock for the Hall of Fame. However, his PED suspension killed any chance of his induction in the near future, as he fell off the ballot after four years.
Despite not leading the league in most categories, Palmeiro was consistently amongst the leaders in home runs, RBI, walks and extra base hits. In fact, he only led the league once each in hits, doubles, and runs scored. His consistency was certainly remarkable, even if he was considered more of a compiler than a truly elite player.
While it is easy to deride Palmeiro for winning a Gold Glove at first despite playing only 34 games there, the truth is that he was a solid defensive player. He only won three Gold Glove awards, but deserved several others, as he was among the league leaders in putouts, assists, range factor and runs saved. His 51 runs saved at first is the 16th best mark overall in MLB history, showing exactly what type of ability Palmeiro had in his younger days.
However, Palmeiro’s chances at the Hall of Fame have been irrevocably damaged due to his failed PED test. This came after he adamantly denied any PED usage, wagging his finger in front of Congress as he refuted the accusations in Jose Canseco‘s book. That moment, and his subsequent positive test, made Palmeiro a subject of mockery.
That failed test will likely keep Rafael Palmeiro from the Hall of Fame unless the mindset surrounding PED usage changes. Chances are, that will never happen.
Bobby Grich .266/.371/.424, 224 home runs, 1833 hits, 320 doubles, 70.9 WAR, 2.6% (1992)
Playing during a time when virtually nothing was expected from middle infielders on offense, Grich was a power hitter who was a true weapon.
During an era when the ability to get on base and draw a walk was an unappreciated skill, Grich excelled. He was consistently among the leaders in walks and on base percentage, using that ability to help set up the Orioles and Angels offense. Yet, he was more than just a player with excellent patience – Grich was a power hitter who led the league in home runs once and even had a 30 home run season.
Yet, that is not to say that Grich was not the defensive stalwart that second basemen were expected to be. He won four consecutive Gold Glove awards, and routinely ranked among the league leaders in putouts, assists, double plays, range factor, and runs saved. His 71 runs saved is the ninth best mark in MLB history at second, and fifth was a 5.69 range factor per nine innings.
While his raw numbers may not have put Grich amongst the all time greats, a closer look at his production, especially given the era he played in, show how valuable he actually was. A favorite amongst the sabermetric community, those advaned statistics could get Grich a longer look than usual through the Veteran’s Committee.
Bobby Grich may not have been the most impressive player based on his raw numbers, but they do not show his true value. He was one of the better players in the history of the game, a top 100 player based on his WAR, and one who deserves a longer look at the Hall.
Mike Mussina 270-153, 3.68 ERA, 1.192 WHiP, 2813 strikeouts, 83.0 WAR, 43.0% (2016)
It no longer seems to be a question of whether or not Mike Mussina will get into the Hall of Fame, but rather when he will get that call welcoming him to Cooperstown.
A consistent pitcher who simply knew how to win, Mussina was an unquestioned ace from his first full season in the Majors through his last year. Owner of a .638 winning percentage, the 36th best mark of all time, Mussina was routinely among the league leaders in wins each year. A five time All Star, he finished as high as second in the Cy Young voting in 1998.
Mussina was also well known for his excellent defense. While Mark Buehrle was the premier defensive pitcher during that time, Mussina still brought home seven Gold Glove awards, including winning his final one at 39 years old in his last season.
That final season was one of the best finales in MLB history. He went 20-9 with a 3.37 ERA and a 1.223 WHiP, showing that he had plenty left in the tank when he decided to call it a career. Perhaps in doing so, Mussina hurt his Hall of Fame candidacy, as he fell short of those milestones that typically mean automatic enshrinement.
Missing those milestone does not change the type of pitcher that Mike Mussina was. An ace who was able to take the ball every time his turn in the rotation came up, he was simply one of the best pitchers of his time.
Lou Whitaker .276/.363/.426, 244 home runs, 1084 RBI, 2369 hits, 74.9 WAR, 2.9% (2001)
In putting together a list of the best second basemen in MLB history, Lou Whitaker would be prominently listed. Unfortunately, he came up for induction into the Hall of Fame during an era when offensive numbers looked more like the results of a video game, making his accomplishments appear minimal.
That thought is a complete disservice to Whitaker. Part of one of the better double play combinations that the game had seen, he was considered to be a Hall of Fame caliber player during his playing days, yet only had one year on the ballot before not receiving enough support to remain.
A five time All Star, four time Silver Slugger winner and the 1978 Rookie of the Year award winner, Whitaker was a rare offensive force at second. He had four seasons with twenty or more home runs, and in his best season in 1983, he posted a .320/.380/.457 batting line with 206 hits and 40 doubles. That would also be the only season he received any consideration for the MVP award, finishing eighth that year.
Whitaker was also a solid defensive second baseman, winning three consecutive Gold Glove awards. Among the all time leaders in putouts, assists, double plays and range factor, he is also credited with 77 runs saved at second, the seventh best mark in history.
There is no question that Lou Whitaker was one of the best second basemen in the history of the game. Hopefully, he will be recognized as such and be inducted in Cooperstown.
Alan Trammell .285/.352/.415, 185 home runs, 2365 hits, 412 doubles, 70.4 WAR, 40.9% (2016)
Just as Lou Whitaker was considered to be a Hall of Fame player during his career, his counterpart with the Detroit Tigers, Alan Trammell, was also expected to join him in Cooperstown. While Whitaker had just the one year on the ballot, Trammell hung around for 15 years, but did not receive the support needed.
It is unfortunate that he did not, as Trammell was the best shortstop in the American League during the 1980’s. A key part of the Tigers run of success during that decade, he was a six time All Star and a three time Silver Slugger winner, winning the 1984 World Series MVP award in the Tigers five game championship victory.
A player who relied on his excellent ability to make contact, Trammell had seven seasons where he hit over .300, including his impressive 1987 campaign where he had a .343/.402/.551 batting line with 205 hits, 28 home runs and 21 stolen bases. He finished second in the MVP award that year, finishing 21 points behind George Bell. Had he won the award that year, it may have changed his trajectory to Cooperstown.
Trammell was just as solid defensively as he was with the bat. A four time Gold Glove winner, he ended his career with 1307 double plays, the seventh best mark amongst MLB shortstops, and 81 runs saved. Teamed with Whitaker, Trammell helped provide the Tigers with excellent play up the middle for close to twenty years.
Alan Trammell was a mainstay with the Detroit Tigers, and one of their biggest stars during the 1980’s. Now, whether or not he ends up in Cooperstown will be in the hands of the Veteran’s Committee.
Tim Raines .301/.391/.425, 2605 hits, 1571 runs, 808 stolen bases, 69.1 WAR, 69.8% (2016)
Arguably the second greatest leadoff hitter in the history of the game, Tim Raines had the misfortune of playing at the same time as Rickey Henderson. That timing has led to his being overlooked when it comes to the Hall of Fame, but with one year of eligibility left, he have his best chance at induction next year.
A force on the basepaths, Raines stole 50 or more bases eight times, and had 70 or more on six occasions. He would typically rank among the league leaders in triples, using the gaps at the old Olympic Stadium to his advantage. Despite playing in Montreal, he became a star, making seven All Star games and winning a Silver Slugger award.
Yet, he was more than just a speedster. Raines had excellent patience at the plate and a stellar eye, drawing 1330 walks against 966 strikeouts. He hit over .300 seven times, leading the league with a .334 batting average in 1986. Raines also had solid power for a leadoff hitter, hitting double digit home runs seven times and hitting 30 or more doubles six times.
Even though he never won a Gold Glove award, Raines was a solid defensive player. He ranks in the top 20 all time in putouts, assists and double plays among left fielders, and even though he was a bit of a defensive liability at the end of his career, he was among the leaders in runs saved during his prime.
With one year left on the ballot, and just over five percent from being inducted, Tim Raines may finally get his due in 2017. If not, he would almost appear to be a lock for induction through the Veteran’s Committee.
Jeff Bagwell .297/.408/.540, 449 home runs, 1529 RBI, 202 stolen bases, 79.6 WAR, 71.6% (2016)
A star for the Houston Astros, Jeff Bagwell would have appeared to be a sure fire Hall of Fame player. However, unsubstantiated PED allegations begun by Murray Chass, despite Bagwell never failing a drug test, hampered his support early on.
That is truly unfortunate, because during his prime, Bagwell possessed a blend of power and speed that had not been seen before at first base. He stole ten or more bases ten times, even stealing 30 or more twice in his career. Bagwell also hit over 30 home runs nine times, and became a two time member of the 30/30 club.
A four time All Star and three time Silver Slugger, Bagwell won the Rookie of the Year award in 1991, and three years later, was the National League MVP. That year, he produced a .368/.451/.750 batting line with 39 home runs and led the league with 104 runs scored, 116 RBI and 15 stolen bases. He was, during his prime, an all around threat on offense.
Bagwell was also a bit underrated defensively. He only won one Gold Glove award, but he had one of the best arms in MLB history at first. He led the National League in assists five times, and finished his career with 1704 assists, the third highest mark in the history of the game. Even though his offense received all of the attention, Bagwell was a solid all around player.
One of the best first basemen that the game has ever seen, Jeff Bagwell deserves to be in the Hall of Fame. His time may come as soon as next year.
Roger Clemens 354-184, 3.12 ERA, 1.173 WHiP, 4672 strikeouts, 140.3 WAR, 45.2% (2016)
Not only is Roger Clemens the best pitcher not in the Hall of Fame, but he is one of the greatest players in the history of the MLB. Yet, his ties to PED usage have kept him from being a first ballot Hall of Famer, and are leaving his future chances at induction in question.
There is absolutely no question that Clemens was truly dominant. He ranks eighth all time in WAR, and is third amongst pitchers, trailing only Cy Young and Walter Johnson. That is certainly elite company.
His accomplishments only magnify his status in MLB history. Possessing a career that is beyond even the wildest dreams of most aspiring baseball players, Clemens won seven Cy Young awards, made eleven All Star Games, was the 1986 All Star Game and regular season MVP and twice struck out 20 batters in a game. He led the league in ERA seven times, five times in strikeouts, six times in shutouts, and won 15 or more games 12 times.
Yet, his career has been clouded by PED allegations. He was named in the Mitchell Report, and was later indicted on six counts of perjury. Andy Pettitte claimed that Clemens admitted his PED use to him, but he was eventually acquitted of all charges. The taint remains, however, as Clemens has not received close to the support that his resume would indicate he should have.
One of the greatest players in MLB history, there is no question that Roger Clemens should be in the Hall of Fame based on the numbers. The context in which they were put up, however, has kept him from being enshrined in Cooperstown.
Barry Bonds .298/.444/.607, 762 home runs, 1996 RBI, 514 stolen bases, 162.4 WAR, 44.3% (2016)
One of eight players in the 300 home run/300 stolen base club, Barry Bonds is also the only player in the 400/400 and 500/500 clubs. Arguably the greatest all around player in the history of the game, he is also the most controversial.
Bonds’ accomplishments put him in the top three players in MLB history. The all time leader in home runs, both in a career and a single season, and walks, he made 14 All Star Games, won seven MVP awards, and was a 12 time Silver Slugger. Bonds led the league in on base percentage ten times, slugging percentage seven times, and walks on twelve different occasions. Defensively, Bonds was stellar in his younger days, winning eight Gold Glove awards and possessing an incredible arm that, at age 39, allowed him to lead the National League in assists.
Possessing a blend of power and speed the likes of which had rarely been seen before, Bonds had 19 seasons with 20 or more home runs, and another 12 seasons with 20 or more stolen bases. He made the 30/30 club four times, and in 1996, he became the second member of the 40/40 club, joining Jose Canseco. Unlike Canseco, whose career flamed out within a couple of years, Bonds was only getting started, as he put together a career that would, under norm circumstances, have him discussed with the elite in MLB history.
However, Bonds is also tied to PED usage. His late career surge, ties to BALCO and his later trial for perjury and obstruction of justice, have left a bad taste in the mouths of voters, leaving him with less than 50% of the vote after four years on the ballot. Yet, one could claim that Bonds was already a Hall of Fame player prior to his alleged PED usage, making his exclusion from Cooperstown even more onerous.
Barry Bonds was not only one of the greatest players in history, but a true all around talent. His place in Cooperstown should not only be assured, but should have already been granted.
