Tim Wakefield (1992-1993, 1995-2011)
A corner infielder in the minors, Tim Wakefield developed a knuckleball after a scout told him that his skillset on the diamond would not get him past AA. That move to become a knuckleballer did wonders for his career.
After taking the National League by storm as a rookie with the Pirates, he was back in the minors two years later. Signed by the Red Sox after being released in 1995, he spent 17 years with the club, the most of any pitcher in team history. Along the way, he became a steady innings eater, willing to fill a variety of roles. Wakefield even served as the Red Sox closer in 1999, notching 15 saves will invoking images of Hoyt Wilhelm.
Using that knuckler, Wakefield finally received an All Star Game nod in 2009, the first and only of his career. Still, even without the accolades, Wakefield had a solid career, posting a 200-180 record with a 4.41 ERA and a 1.350 WHiP. He even recorded 22 saves in his time in the bullpen, helping the Red Sox in a variety or ways.
Despite being a fan favorite, and being a part of two World Series winning teams in Boston, Wakefield just does not have the numbers for enshrinement. He may generate some support due to his presence in Boston, and what he meant to the team, but he is just not at that level needed. It was a nice career, and Wakefield was one of the top statistical pitchers in Red Sox history, but that does not put him in Cooperstown.
Tim Wakefield may generate enough support to remain on the ballot for more than one season, but he will not get much more than the minimum. One of the last of a dying breed, Wakefield was a good pitcher, nothing more and nothing less.