MLB Hall of Fame: Breaking down the 2019 ballot

Edgar Martinez – 10th year on ballot (70.4% in 2018)

If Edgar Martinez played any position on the diamond, he would already in the MLB Hall of Fame. however, his status as one of the greatest designated hitters in the history of the game is hindering his candidacy.

There is no questioning his credentials. Martinez was a seven time All Star and a five time Silver Slugger, a truly professional hitter. He won two batting titles, and batted over .300 in ten of his 18 seasons. Martinez had a bit of pop as well, hitting over 20 homers eight times, and leading the league in doubles twice.

During his career, spent entirely in Seattle, Martinez produced an excellent .312/.418/.515 batting line, hitting 309 homers and 514 doubles. Considering he was not a regular with the Mariners until he was 27 years old, Martinez had some truly impressive numbers. Along with Ken Griffey Jr. he was one of the great hitters in team history.

At this point, it seems that Martinez is going to get the call of immortality. After hovering in the 20 to 30% range for six years, he has climbed the standings, coming in with 70.4% of the vote last year. He was just 20 votes shy of induction last year, and may get that final push to get enshrined in his final year on the ballot.

Edgar Martinez should have been in the Hall of Fame a long time ago. This year, he may finally become the first designated hitter to be inducted.