MLB Hall of Fame: Breaking down the 2020 ballot
By David Hill
Adam Dunn – first year on ballot
No player symbolized the Three True Outcome concept quite like Adam Dunn.
In fact, Dunn may well be the player that truly became that ideal. In just under 50% of his plate appearances (49.9279% to be exact) he either hit a home run, walked, or struck out. It was fascinating to watch when he was at the plate.
Even with his rather interesting profile, Dunn had a solid career. A two time All Star, he posted a lifetime .237/.364/.490 batting line, hitting 462 home runs and 334 doubles. Dunn reached the 40 home run plateau six times, but never led the league in that category. He led the league in walks twice and strikeouts four times as well, ranking 43rd in walks and third all time in strikeouts.
While that is an impressive dedication to his standing as the top Three True Outcome player, it is really not enough to warrant inclusion into the MLB Hall of Fame. Dunn certainly was a respectable power hitter, but he was dreadful defensively and was a very one dimensional player. That road, while it led to over $112 million in salary, will not end in Cooperstown.
Adam Dunn had a very specific niche in the majors. And he played his part perfectly.