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Baker’s Bridge: From Baker to Ruth — and Baker

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Born on this day, March 13, 1886, 139 years ago, John Franklin “Home Run” Baker became a baseball icon during the dead ball era — a time when home runs were few but fabled. He earned his nickname during the 1911 World Series with the Philadelphia Athletics, with two pivotal home runs — one a go-ahead shot off Rube Marquard in Game 2, the other a 9th-inning blast off Christy Mathewson that broke a shutout and ignited a comeback victory in Game 3 — helping secure the World Series after leading the American League that year with 11 homers. That power launched an era-defining run, as Baker led the American League in home runs for four straight seasons from 1911 to 1914, totaling 42 long balls across that span — modest by today’s standards but Herculean then.


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Baker’s 1912 season was a masterpiece: leading baseball with 10 home runs, he also became the first player ever to notch 10 home runs, 20 triples, 40 doubles, and 40 stolen bases in a single year, finishing with 10 homers, 21 triples, 40 doubles, and 40 steals. Kiki Cuyler, in 1925, is the only other to achieve this 10-20-40-40 feat, while Future Hall of Famer Jimmy Rollins is the only player since Cuyler to even amass 10 home runs, 20 triples, 30 doubles, and 40 stolen bases in a season, falling just shy of the 10-20-40-40 mark by a pair of doubles.

Now, imagine earning the nickname “Home Run” only to be outdone by some kid called “Babe.”

Baker’s career took him from the Athletics to the New York Yankees in 1916 after a contract dispute sidelined him for the entire 1915 season. Before that, he’d helped Philadelphia win three World Series (1910, 1911, 1913) as part of Connie Mack’s famed $100,000 infield. While still with the Athletics, Baker faced Babe Ruth — then a pitcher with the Boston Red Sox — 54 times, and Ruth had his number, holding him to a .135/.167/.154 batting line.

Then, by 1920, Ruth, now with the Yankees, eclipsed Baker’s four-year total of 42 homers from his 1911-14 league-leading stretch with 54 that season alone — heralding the end of the dead ball era and the dawn of a new slugging age. In 1921, Baker’s final season and his first alongside Babe Ruth on the New York Yankees, Ruth smashed 59 home runs — 50 more than Baker’s nine that season — topping his own single-season record. Ruth even scored on four of Baker’s nine homers that year, underscoring the shift in baseball’s power dynamic.

With the Yankees, Baker reached two more World Series (1921, 1922), both losses to the Giants, who avenged their 1911 and 1913 defeats to his Athletics. In 1922, his final year, he closed out a Yankee tenure that totaled 48 homers and a .288 average — solid numbers for a star fading in Ruth’s live ball surge. He retired with a .307 career average, 96 home runs, and a legacy as an early home run standout, elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1955.

In a twist only baseball could script, Baker’s given name, John — though he went by Frank off the field — ties him to a fellow namesake. The other John Baker hit nine home runs in 2009, echoing “Home Run” Baker’s final league-leading total of nine in 1914 in perfect baseball harmony, and though never dubbed “Home Run,” he remains the only John Baker honored with a day named after him, earned for his heroics on July 29, 2014, when he pitched a scoreless 16th inning, then walked and scored the walk-off run on a Starlin Castro sacrifice fly to seal a Cubs victory.

From the dead ball era to Babe Ruth’s explosive reign, John “Home Run” Baker bridged baseball’s transformation — his nickname a tribute to an age when clawing into double-digits crowned you a titan, only for Ruth to redefine peak power with seasons that dwarfed Baker’s best career stretches. Yet, across a century, another John Baker staked claim to the name, etching a modern mark with a single day’s heroics that echoed the original’s flair.

White Sox 2024 (Test Group)

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Game # Date Opponent ML (FanDuel) Result Running Average Odds  Running ($100 Bet) Total
1 3/28/2024 Detroit Tigers +150 L 0-1 +150 (100.00)
2 3/30/2024 Detroit Tigers +112 L 6-7 +131 (200.00)
3 3/31/2024 Detroit Tigers +122 L 2-3 +128 (300.00)
4 4/1/2024 Atlanta Braves +240 L 0-9 +156 (400.00)
5 4/2/2024 Atlanta Braves +220 W 3-2 +169 (180.00)
6 4/4/2024 @ Kansas City Royals +166 L 1-10 +168 (280.00)
7 4/5/2024 @ Kansas City Royals +156 L 1-2 +167 (380.00)
8 4/6/2024 @ Kansas City Royals +164 L 0-3 +166 (480.00)
9 4/7/2024 @ Kansas City Royals +174 L 3-5 +167 (580.00)
10 4/8/2024 @ Cleveland Guardians +205 L 0-4 +171 (680.00)
11 4/9/2024 @ Cleveland Guardians +205 W 7-5 +174 (475.00)
12 4/10/2024 @ Cleveland Guardians +215 L 6-7 +177 (575.00)
13 4/12/2024 Cincinnati Reds +148 L 1-11 +175 (675.00)
14 4/13/2024 Cincinnati Reds +152 L 0-5 +174 (775.00)
15 4/14/2024 Cincinnati Reds +156 L 4-11 +172 (875.00)
16 4/15/2024 Kansas City Royals +142 L 0-2 +170 (975.00)
17 4/17/2024 Kansas City Royals +146 L 2-4 +169 (1,075.00)
18 4/17/2024 Kansas City Royals +148 W 2-1 +168 (927.00)
19 4/19/2024 @ Philadelphia Phillies +258 L 0-7 +173 (1,027.00)
20 4/20/2024 @ Philadelphia Phillies +262 L 5-9 +177 (1,127.00)
21 4/21/2024 @ Philadelphia Phillies +266 L 2-8 +181 (1,227.00)
22 4/22/2024 @ Minnesota Twins +182 L 0-7 +181 (1,327.00)
23 4/23/2024 @ Minnesota Twins +186 L 5-6 +182 (1,427.00)
24 4/24/2024 @ Minnesota Twins +190 L 3-6 +182 (1,527.00)
25 4/25/2024 @ Minnesota Twins +194 L 3-6 +182 (1,627.00)
26 4/26/2024 Tampa Bay Rays +158 W 9-4 +181 (1,469.00)
27 4/27/2024 Tampa Bay Rays +154 W 8-7 +180 (1,315.00)
28 4/28/2024 Tampa Bay Rays +150 W 4-2 +179 (1,165.00)
29 4/29/2024 Minnesota Twins +172 L 2-3 +179 (1,265.00)
30 4/30/2024 Minnesota Twins +176 L 5-6 +179 (1,365.00)
31 5/1/2024 Minnesota Twins +178 L 5-10 +179 (1,465.00)
32 5/3/2024 @ St. Louis Cardinals +198 L 0-3 +180 (1,565.00)
33 5/4/2024 @ St. Louis Cardinals +202 W 6-5 +180 (1,363.00)
34 5/5/2024 @ St. Louis Cardinals +206 W 5-1 +181 (1,157.00)
35 5/6/2024 @ Tampa Bay Rays +182 L 2-8 +181 (1,257.00)
36 5/7/2024 @ Tampa Bay Rays +186 L 1-5 +181 (1,357.00)
37 5/8/2024 @ Tampa Bay Rays +190 W 4-1 +181 (1,167.00)
38 5/9/2024 Cleveland Guardians +202 W 3-2 +182 (965.00)
39 5/10/2024 Cleveland Guardians -102 W 6-3 +180 (866.96)
40 5/11/2024 Cleveland Guardians +206 W 3-1 +180 (660.96)
41 5/12/2024 Cleveland Guardians +210 L 0-7 +181 (760.96)
42 5/14/2024 Washington Nationals +100 L 3-6 +179 (860.96)
43 5/14/2024 Washington Nationals -148 W 4-0 +177 (793.39)
44 5/15/2024 Washington Nationals +126 W 2-0 +175 (667.39)
45 5/17/2024 @ New York Yankees +258 L 2-4 +177 (767.39)
46 5/18/2024 @ New York Yankees +262 L 1-6 +179 (867.39)
47 5/19/2024 @ New York Yankees +266 L 2-7 +181 (967.39)
48 5/20/2024 @ Toronto Blue Jays +198 L 3-9 +181 (1,067.39)
49 5/21/2024 @ Toronto Blue Jays +202 W 5-0 +182 (865.39)
50 5/22/2024 @ Toronto Blue Jays +206 L 2-9 +182 (965.39)
51 5/23/2024 Baltimore Orioles +194 L 6-8 +182 (1,065.39)
52 5/24/2024 Baltimore Orioles +205 L 4-6 +183 (1,165.39)
53 5/25/2024 Baltimore Orioles +144 L 3-5 +182 (1,265.39)
54 5/26/2024 Baltimore Orioles +198 L 1-4 +182 (1,365.39)
55 5/27/2024 Toronto Blue Jays +182 L 1-5 +182 (1,465.39)
56 5/28/2024 Toronto Blue Jays +186 L 2-7 +183 (1,565.39)
57 5/29/2024 Toronto Blue Jays +190 L 1-3 +183 (1,665.39)
58 5/31/2024 @ Milwaukee Brewers +248 L 5-12 +184 (1,765.39)
59 6/1/2024 @ Milwaukee Brewers +252 L 3-4 +185 (1,865.39)
60 6/2/2024 @ Milwaukee Brewers +256 L 3-6 +186 (1,965.39)
61 6/4/2024 @ Chicago Cubs +218 L 6-7 +187 (2,065.39)
62 6/5/2024 @ Chicago Cubs +222 L 6-7 +187 (2,165.39)
63 6/6/2024 Boston Red Sox +198 L 2-14 +187 (2,265.39)
64 6/7/2024 Boston Red Sox -108 W 7-2 +186 (2,172.80)
65 6/8/2024 Boston Red Sox +158 W 6-1 +185 (2,014.80)
66 6/9/2024 Boston Red Sox +162 L 4-6 +185 (2,114.80)
67 6/10/2024 @ Seattle Mariners +208 L 4-8 +185 (2,214.80)
68 6/11/2024 @ Seattle Mariners +212 L 3-4 +186 (2,314.80)
69 6/12/2024 @ Seattle Mariners +216 L 1-2 +186 (2,414.80)
70 6/13/2024 @ Seattle Mariners +220 W 3-2 +187 (2,194.80)
71 6/14/2024 @ Arizona Diamondbacks +228 L 1-7 +187 (2,294.80)
72 6/15/2024 @ Arizona Diamondbacks +232 W 9-2 +188 (2,062.80)
73 6/16/2024 @ Arizona Diamondbacks +236 L 5-12 +189 (2,162.80)
74 6/18/2024 Houston Astros +188 W 2-0 +189 (1,974.80)
75 6/21/2024 @ Detroit Tigers +152 L 1-2 +188 (2,074.80)
76 6/22/2024 @ Detroit Tigers +140 W 5-1 +188 (1,934.80)
77 6/23/2024 @ Detroit Tigers +168 L 2-11 +187 (2,034.80)
78 6/24/2024 Los Angeles Dodgers +258 L 0-3 +188 (2,134.80)
79 6/25/2024 Los Angeles Dodgers +262 L 3-4 +189 (2,234.80)
80 6/26/2024 Los Angeles Dodgers +266 L 0-4 +190 (2,334.80)
81 6/27/2024 Atlanta Braves +248 W 1-0 +191 (2,086.80)
82 6/28/2024 Colorado Rockies +118 W 5-3 +190 (1,968.80)
83 6/29/2024 Colorado Rockies +114 W 11-3 +189 (1,854.80)
84 6/30/2024 Colorado Rockies +110 L 4-5 +188 (1,954.80)
85 7/2/2024 @ Cleveland Guardians +228 W 7-6 +188 (1,726.80)
86 7/3/2024 @ Cleveland Guardians +232 W 8-2 +189 (1,494.80)
87 7/4/2024 @ Cleveland Guardians +236 L 4-8 +190 (1,594.80)
88 7/5/2024 @ Miami Marlins +148 L 2-3 +189 (1,694.80)
89 7/6/2024 @ Miami Marlins +144 L 3-4 +189 (1,794.80)
90 7/7/2024 @ Miami Marlins +140 L 4-7 +188 (1,894.80)
91 7/8/2024 Minnesota Twins +188 L 6-8 +188 (1,994.80)
92 7/10/2024 Minnesota Twins +192 W 3-1 +188 (1,802.80)
93 7/10/2024 Minnesota Twins +196 L 2-3 +188 (1,902.80)
94 7/12/2024 Pittsburgh Pirates +178 L 1-4 +188 (2,002.80)
95 7/13/2024 Pittsburgh Pirates +182 L 2-6 +188 (2,102.80)
96 7/14/2024 Pittsburgh Pirates +186 L 4-9 +188 (2,202.80)
97 7/19/2024 @ Kansas City Royals +218 L 1-7 +188 (2,302.80)
98 7/20/2024 @ Kansas City Royals +222 L 1-6 +189 (2,402.80)
99 7/21/2024 @ Kansas City Royals +226 L 1-4 +189 (2,502.80)
100 7/22/2024 @ Texas Rangers +248 L 3-4 +190 (2,602.80)
101 7/23/2024 @ Texas Rangers +252 L 2-3 +190 (2,702.80)
102 7/24/2024 @ Texas Rangers +256 L 2-10 +191 (2,802.80)
103 7/25/2024 @ Texas Rangers +260 L 1-2 +192 (2,902.80)
104 7/26/2024 Seattle Mariners +208 L 0-10 +192 (3,002.80)
105 7/27/2024 Seattle Mariners +212 L 3-6 +192 (3,102.80)
106 7/28/2024 Seattle Mariners +216 L 3-6 +192 (3,202.80)
107 7/29/2024 Kansas City Royals +198 L 5-8 +192 (3,302.80)
108 7/30/2024 Kansas City Royals +202 L 3-4 +192 (3,402.80)
109 7/31/2024 Kansas City Royals +206 L 3-10 +192 (3,502.80)
110 8/2/2024 @ Minnesota Twins +238 L 2-10 +193 (3,602.80)
111 8/3/2024 @ Minnesota Twins +242 L 2-6 +193 (3,702.80)
112 8/4/2024 @ Minnesota Twins +246 L 7-13 +194 (3,802.80)
113 8/5/2024 @ Oakland Athletics +168 L 1-5 +193 (3,902.80)
114 8/6/2024 @ Oakland Athletics +160 L 1-5 +193 (4,002.80)
115 8/7/2024 @ Oakland Athletics +164 L 2-3 +193 (4,102.80)
116 8/9/2024 Chicago Cubs +228 L 6-7 +193 (4,202.80)
117 8/10/2024 Chicago Cubs +232 L 1-3 +194 (4,302.80)
118 8/12/2024 New York Yankees +268 W 12-2 +194 (4,034.80)
119 8/13/2024 New York Yankees +272 L 1-4 +195 (4,134.80)
120 8/14/2024 New York Yankees +276 L 2-10 +196 (4,234.80)
121 8/16/2024 @ Houston Astros +288 L 4-5 +196 (4,334.80)
122 8/17/2024 @ Houston Astros +292 W 6-1 +197 (4,042.80)
123 8/18/2024 @ Houston Astros +296 L 0-2 +198 (4,142.80)
124 8/19/2024 @ San Francisco Giants +258 L 3-5 +198 (4,242.80)
125 8/20/2024 @ San Francisco Giants +262 L 1-4 +199 (4,342.80)
126 8/21/2024 @ San Francisco Giants +266 L 2-4 +199 (4,442.80)
127 8/23/2024 Detroit Tigers +134 L 2-5 +199 (4,542.80)
128 8/24/2024 Detroit Tigers +194 L 4-13 +199 (4,642.80)
129 8/25/2024 Detroit Tigers +132 L 4-9 +198 (4,742.80)
130 8/26/2024 Detroit Tigers +116 L 3-6 +198 (4,842.80)
131 8/27/2024 Texas Rangers +238 L 1-3 +198 (4,942.80)
132 8/28/2024 Texas Rangers +242 L 3-4 +198 (5,042.80)
133 8/29/2024 Texas Rangers +246 L 1-2 +199 (5,142.80)
134 8/30/2024 New York Mets +184 L 1-5 +199 (5,242.80)
135 8/31/2024 New York Mets +162 L 3-5 +198 (5,342.80)
136 9/1/2024 New York Mets +146 L 0-2 +198 (5,442.80)
137 9/2/2024 @ Baltimore Orioles +360 L 3-13 +199 (5,542.80)
138 9/3/2024 @ Baltimore Orioles +260 L 0-9 +200 (5,642.80)
139 9/4/2024 @ Baltimore Orioles +264 W 8-1 +200 (5,378.80)
140 9/6/2024 @ Boston Red Sox +268 L 1-3 +201 (5,478.80)
141 9/7/2024 @ Boston Red Sox +272 L 5-7 +201 (5,578.80)
142 9/8/2024 @ Boston Red Sox +276 W 7-2 +202 (5,302.80)
143 9/9/2024 Cleveland Guardians +228 L 0-5 +202 (5,402.80)
144 9/10/2024 Cleveland Guardians +232 L 0-5 +202 (5,502.80)
145 9/11/2024 Cleveland Guardians +236 L 4-6 +202 (5,602.80)
146 9/13/2024 Oakland Athletics +118 L 6-7 +202 (5,702.80)
147 9/14/2024 Oakland Athletics +114 W 7-6 +201 (5,588.80)
148 9/15/2024 Oakland Athletics +112 L 3-4 +200 (5,688.80)
149 9/16/2024 @ Los Angeles Angels +168 L 0-5 +200 (5,788.80)
150 9/17/2024 @ Los Angeles Angels +172 W 5-0 +200 (5,616.80)
151 9/18/2024 @ Los Angeles Angels +176 L 3-4 +200 (5,716.80)
152 9/20/2024 @ San Diego Padres +298 L 2-3 +200 (5,816.80)
153 9/21/2024 @ San Diego Padres +302 L 2-6 +201 (5,916.80)
154 9/22/2024 @ San Diego Padres +306 L 2-4 +202 (6,016.80)
155 9/24/2024 Los Angeles Angels +102 W 3-2 +201 (5,914.80)
156 9/25/2024 Los Angeles Angels -102 W 4-3 +201 (5,816.76)
157 9/26/2024 Los Angeles Angels +108 W 7-0 +200 (5,708.76)
158 9/27/2024 @ Detroit Tigers +166 L 1-4 +200 (5,808.76)
159 9/28/2024 @ Detroit Tigers +178 W 4-0 +200 (5,630.76)
160 9/29/2024 @ Detroit Tigers +198 W 9-5 +200 (5,432.76)
161 9/30/2024 @ Detroit Tigers +200 L 2-4 +200 (5,532.76)
162 10/1/2024 @ Detroit Tigers +202 L 1-3 +200 (5,632.76)

 

Rickey Knows All of Rickey’s Stats

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I was honored to receive an invitation from the legendary Tim Raines to attend his Hall of Fame ceremony. The night before, during the celebratory banquet, I found myself seated next to none other than Rickey Henderson.

While I don’t often get starstruck, Rickey was a god among mortals in the baseball world for me. I must have downed six or seven Labatts before even taking my seat at the table.

When I finally mustered the courage to introduce myself, Rickey shook my hand and asked me — genuinely, kindly, and curiously — essentially, who I was and what I was doing there.

I explained that I have done some work in the game and have written for several national media outlets, focusing on advanced statistics and metrics that aren’t found on the back of a baseball card. Adding that Rock felt some of those types of stats are what finally got him across the finish line, so he was kind enough to include me on his big night.

Ever wonder what 1,406 combined stolen bases at the big league level looks like?

Rickey grinned and — to my shock, as I didn’t think he ever actually spoke like this — says, “what you got on Rickey?”

I am stoked.

I quickly rip through my phone, trying to find the coolest Rickey Henderson fact that I had unearthed — and boom — “[Rickey Henderson] has 81 career leadoff home runs, the Mariners as a franchise had 82, but of those 82, three belong to Rickey. The only way to beat Rickey is with Rickey.”

Rickey looked at my phone, seemingly stunned at his own accomplishment, as I excitedly prepared for him to react in a way similar to what I had heard from Tim Raines as he blurbed for the recent book that I had written with my pal Kevin Reavy, “I wish Ryan and Kevin would have written a book like this when I was playing. There’s stuff in here about my career I didn’t know! The stats and stories in this book are really eye-opening.”

Instead, Rickey shook off his surprise, flipped my phone back to me, and says, “Rickey knows all of Rickey’s stats,” initially stoic but soon after letting out a raspy chuckle.

Incredible Baseball Stats, Vol. II — Paying Homage to Rickey

For anyone else, that might come off as arrogant, but not Rickey. His confidence was charming and his engaging manner was endearing, a testament to his larger-than-life persona.

Today, baseball didn’t just lose a great ballplayer and bases stealer; baseball lost “the greatest of all time.”

2025 MLB Hall of Fame Alumni Ballot

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I was chatting with the Kevin Youkils after the 2018 Hall of Fame Announcement, and we were both in agreement: Edgar Martinez should be in the Hall of Fame, and it is a shame that his peers have no say as far as whether or not he was a Hall of Famer, or he would already have been inducted.

I told Youk that I think that players should have a say as to who is immortalized in the game that they played; I told him that I think that it is a shame that MLB Alumni are ostracized from the process.

Instead of criticizing BBWAA, something that I have done to a fault, the Greek God of Walks offered a “just get on base” solution: set up an Alumni Voting System to see who former players think should be in the Hall of Fame.

Done, Youk.

For the past seven years now, I have collected votes from MLB Alumni, challenging the views of BBWAA. I have sent ballots out to hundreds of former big leaguers, from players with nothing more than a cup of coffee to journeymen to All-Stars to players who are themselves on the ballot to even Hall of Famers.

Alumni rules are the same as the rules imposed on BBWAA with a few minor exceptions: I always ask if they would include anyone beyond their ten votes, on the ballot or otherwise, though these are not counted in the final tally, and, per the suggestion of should-be Hall of Famer, Curt Schilling, I do not allow players to vote for themselves (though I do not penalize their final vote tally when they are unable to do so).

Below you will find the votes, both publicly named and anonymous, of the players who are voting in the Seventh Annual MLB Hall of Fame Alumni Ballot.

Be sure to check back daily for updated results!

Ballot No. 81 – Anonymous Former Chicago White Sox Ballplayer

  1. Andruw Jones
  2. Manny Ramirez
  3. Álex Rodríguez
  4. Jimmy Rollins
  5. CC Sabathia
  6. Ichiro Suzuki

 

Ballot No. 80 – Daric Barton

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Félix Hernández
  3. Andruw Jones
  4. Manny Ramirez
  5. Álex Rodríguez
  6. Francisco Rodriguez
  7. CC Sabathia
  8. Ichiro Suzuki
  9. Billy Wagner

DB also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Tommy John
  2. Dave Parker
  3. Luis Tiant

 

Ballot No. 79 – Willie Bloomquist

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Félix Hernández
  3. Dustin Pedroia
  4. Andy Pettitte
  5. Ichiro Suzuki
  6. Omar Vizquel
  7. Billy Wagner
  8. David Wright

 

Ballot No. 78 – Brendan Harris

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Torii Hunter
  3. Andruw Jones
  4. CC Sabathia
  5. Ichiro Suzuki
  6. Billy Wagner

Brendan also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Steve Garvey

 

Ballot No. 77 – Anonymous Former Texas Rangers All-Star

  1. CC Sabathia
  2. Ichiro Suzuki
  3. Billy Wagner

Ballplayer also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dave Parker

“People are in the Hall who don’t have the numbers I did and weren’t the kind of players that wanted to come up with the game on the line!”

 

Ballot No. 76 – Anonymous Former New York Yankees All-Star

  1. Bobby Abreu
  2. Carlos Beltrán
  3. Mark Buehrle
  4. Andruw Jones
  5. Manny Ramirez
  6. Álex Rodríguez
  7. CC Sabathia
  8. Ichiro Suzuki
  9. Chase Utley
  10. Billy Wagner

Write-in: Andy Pettitte (11), Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, Carlos Delgado, Jeff Kent, Rafael Palmeiro, Mark Mcgwire, Sammy Sosa, Gary Sheffield, and Curt Schilling

 

Ballot No. 75 – Jeff Cirillo

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Andruw Jones
  3. CC Sabathia
  4. Ichiro Suzuki
  5. Chase Utley

Jeff also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Steve Garvey

 

Ballot No. 74 – Anonymous Former Florida Marlins World Series Champion

  1. Dustin Pedroia
  2. Manny Ramirez
  3. Álex Rodríguez
  4. Ichiro Suzuki
  5. Omar Vizquel
  6. Billy Wagner

Write-in: Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, Sammy Sosa, and Mark McGwire

 

Ballot No. 73 – JJ Putz

  1. Ichiro Suzuki
  2. Omar Vizquel
  3. Billy Wagner

JJ also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Tommy John
  2. Luis Tiant

 

Ballot No. 72 – Bucky Jacobsen

  1. Bobby Abreu
  2. Mark Buehrle
  3. Félix Hernández
  4. Andruw Jones
  5. Manny Ramirez
  6. Álex Rodríguez
  7. CC Sabathia
  8. Ichiro Suzuki
  9. Billy Wagner

Write-in: Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens

“While I never took roids and played during the time when they were used by many, Bonds and Clemens both belong in the Hall of Fame. That’s why I also voted for A-Rod and Manny. They were some of the best to ever play the game and did it against other guys on the sauce too. It’s also a reason I voted for guys like Mark Buehrle, because he did what he did CLEAN against some guys who weren’t.”

 

Ballot No. 71 – Anonymous Former Philadelphia Phillies Ballpalyer

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Andruw Jones
  3. Manny Ramirez
  4. Álex Rodríguez
  5. Jimmy Rollins
  6. CC Sabathia
  7. Ichiro Suzuki
  8. Chase Utley
  9. Omar Vizquel
  10. Billy Wagner

Ballplayer also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Tommy John
  3. Dave Parker
  4. Luis Tiant

 

Ballot No. 70 – Anonymous Former Pittsburgh Pirates Ballplayer

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. CC Sabathia
  3. Ichiro Suzuki
  4. Chase Utley
  5. Billy Wagner

Ballplayer also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen

 

Ballot No. 69 – Anonymous Former Philadelphia Phillies Ballplayer

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Félix Hernández
  3. Andruw Jones
  4. Jimmy Rollins
  5. CC Sabathia
  6. Ichiro Suzuki
  7. Chase Utley
  8. Omar Vizquel
  9. Billy Wagner
  10. David Wright

Ballplayer also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Tommy John
  3. Dave Parker
  4. Luis Tiant

 

Ballot No. 68 – Anonymous Former Boston Red Sox World Series Champion

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Andruw Jones
  3. Manny Ramirez
  4. Álex Rodríguez
  5. Ichiro Suzuki
  6. Omar Vizquel
  7. Billy Wagner

Write-in: Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, Pete Rose, and Curt Schilling

Ballplayer also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Dave Parker
  3. Luis Tiant

 

Ballot No. 67 – Kelly Stinnett

  1. Andruw Jones
  2. Ichiro Suzuki
  3. Billy Wagner

Kelly also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dave Parker

 

Ballot No. 66 – John Baker

  1. Andruw Jones
  2. Manny Ramirez
  3. Álex Rodríguez
  4. CC Sabathia
  5. Ichiro Suzuki
  6. Chase Utley
  7. Billy Wagner

Write-in: Barry Bonds

Bake also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dave Parker

“Well, I checked the box for A-Rod today. Despite the litany of offenses he was convicted of, he was the second best player (to Bonds) of his era. Now the man seems to have morphed into a brand and although my personally morality is affronted with that small box check, I believe he is a Hall of Fame caliber player. As Jason Marquis says through his thick New York accent: ‘Check tha numbas.’

Perhaps I’ve changed as I’ve gained more life experience and perspective, as I’ve seen and learned about more players skirting PED tests, as Peter Thiel sets out to fund his ‘Enhanced Games,’ an Olympiad with legal PEDs, I just care less. And although I never used them myself (check MY numbers) what stands out most to me is that the committee only punishes those they catch, and Barry Bonds. Who am I to judge A-rod? How many homers were hit off of enhanced pitches and pitchers? Men smart enough to get around the testing standards MLB had imposed. The post steroid era could more aptly be called the hidden steroid era. Balco and biogenesis scandals were publicized, but how many weren’t? We’ll never know. And until we do, it is impossible to adjudicate the issue with accuracy.

In any domain in modern life one important element to follow is ‘the money.’ Why do pitchers chase higher velocity and nastier spin? For money. Why do teams surreptitiously steal and transfer signs? For money. Why do ticket and subscription service prices rise? For money. Why do athletes take steroids, and why do people write books and articles about them doing so? Answer it yourself.

One caveat: I don’t believe anyone should take performance enhancing drugs unless a Doctor deems it medically necessary. You can achieve your dreams without them. No child should tamper with their long-term health, but we are talking about grown men that understand the risks. This is America right? You do you.

I’m too tired to stand on a soapbox and make a case for fairness and morality, so just put the best players in the Hall of Fame already. A-Rod and Bonds were better than everyone else.

And finally, Chase Utley should be in the Hall, not because of numbers, but because of how the way he played transcended his time. You could put that guy in any era of baseball and he’d fit right in, playing a little harder than every other man on the field. Of all the players I played against in my career, he was the one I respected most.”

 

Ballot No. 65 – Jo-Jo Reyes

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Félix Hernández
  3. Torii Hunter
  4. Andruw Jones
  5. Brian McCann
  6. Manny Ramirez
  7. Francisco Rodriguez
  8. CC Sabathia
  9. Ichiro Suzuki
  10. Billy Wagner

 

Ballot No. 64 – Anonymous Former Chicago White Sox Ballplayer

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Andruw Jones
  3. Manny Ramirez
  4. Ichiro Suzuki
  5. Billy Wagner

Ballplayer also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Tommy John
  2. Dave Parker

 

Ballot No. 63 – Anonymous Former Seattle Mariners All-Star

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Andruw Jones
  3. Manny Ramirez
  4. Álex Rodríguez
  5. CC Sabathia
  6. Ichiro Suzuki
  7. Omar Vizquel
  8. Billy Wagner

Ballplayer also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Dave Parker

 

Ballot No. 62 – Mike Timlin

  1. Félix Hernández
  2. Andy Pettitte
  3. CC Sabathia
  4. Ichiro Suzuki
  5. Billy Wagner

Mike also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Tommy John
  2. Dave Parker
  3. Luis Tiant

 

Ballot No. 61 – Ryan Spilborghs

  1. Bobby Abreu
  2. Carlos Beltrán
  3. Torii Hunter
  4. Andruw Jones
  5. CC Sabathia
  6. Ichiro Suzuki
  7. Troy Tulowitzki
  8. Chase Utley
  9. Billy Wagner
  10. David Wright

Spilly also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Tommy John
  3. Dave Parker
  4. Luis Tiant

“I would have checked King Felix. I chose Troy Tulowitzki instead. I wanted Tulo to get a vote. His OPS+ numbers, which are park adjusted so you can’t make a Coors field argument, are higher than Andrew Jones, Chase Utley, and Torii Hunter. Tulo defensively as a shortstop is second all-time in fielding percentage. His career was cut short due to injuries he suffered playing the game right. Peak Tulo was one of the best players in MLB period.

The hardest issue is having known PED users, who tested positive under MLB’s governed rules, placed on the ballot. I have always had a hard stance “not a Hall of Famer” if player tested positive with rules in place. Leaving these players on the ballot forces the voter to act as a judge, jury, and executioner. This should be something the commissioners office, with input from MLBPA, enforce on the ballot, not the writers. For example, as part of the joint agreement, it should be included if voted and agreed upon, that a player that has tested positive twice will be exempt from the Hall of Fame.

At this point, with the issues of the steroid era behind, I don’t think it would matter at this point. As it stands, these players on the current ballot creates the issue that it’s okay to vote for the offenders and they should be in Hall of Fame. Many first time voters are in fact voting for PED users in 2025, more than ten years ago. If Bonds, Clemens, McGwire, Sosa, A-Rod, Manny, Pettitte, etc. were to all begin their time on the ballot today, they would all eventually get into the Hall of Fame, with minimal controversy, based just on the stats and not the expectation the voters will do the work the commissioners office should have done.”

 

Ballot No. 60 – Anonymous Former Texas Rangers All-Star

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Manny Ramirez
  3. Álex Rodríguez
  4. CC Sabathia
  5. Ichiro Suzuki
  6. Billy Wagner

 

Ballot No. 59 – Anonymous Former Boston Red Sox Ballplayer

  1. Félix Hernández
  2. Andruw Jones
  3. Dustin Pedroia
  4. Manny Ramirez
  5. Álex Rodríguez
  6. CC Sabathia
  7. Ichiro Suzuki
  8. Billy Wagner

 

Ballot No. 58 – Mark Lowe

  1. Bobby Abreu
  2. Carlos Beltrán
  3. Félix Hernández
  4. Ian Kinsler
  5. Dustin Pedroia
  6. Andy Pettitte
  7. Manny Ramirez
  8. CC Sabathia
  9. Ichiro Suzuki
  10. Billy Wagner

Mark also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Steve Garvey
  2. Dave Parker
  3. Luis Tiant

 

Ballot No. 57 – Anonymous Former Philadelphia Phillies Ballplayer

  1. Bobby Abreu
  2. Curtis Granderson
  3. Torii Hunter
  4. Andruw Jones
  5. Russell Martin
  6. Hanley Ramirez
  7. Jimmy Rollins
  8. CC Sabathia
  9. Ichiro Suzuki
  10. Chase Utley

Ballplayer also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Steve Garvey
  3. Dave Parker

 

Ballot No. 56 – Paul Byrd

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Andruw Jones
  3. Manny Ramirez
  4. Álex Rodríguez
  5. CC Sabathia
  6. Ichiro Suzuki
  7. Omar Vizquel
  8. Billy Wagner

Write-in: Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, Gary Sheffield, Sammy Sosa, Mark McGwire, Kenny Lofton, “probably a few others.”

Ballplayer also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Ken Boyer
  3. Tommy John
  4. Dave Parker
  5. Luis Tiant

“There are a number of players who I believe should be in the Hall of Fame like Clemens, Sheffield, Sosa, McGwire, Lofton just to name a few. If I could vote for them I would. You may blame me for saying Lofton but after Ryan Spaeder sent a tweet out comparing his numbers to Ichiro, I was surprised. Both were amazing hitters, defenders and scary on the base paths. If you are into rWar compare those numbers too.

I know Omar Vizquel should not be the Hall of Fame based on his numbers or Jimmy Rollins should be in as well; however, Vizquel was an absolute wizard Hall of Fame defender who everyone in the dugout couldn’t take their eyes off of while playing. He is also considered by many one of the smartest defensive players to ever play the game. How do you measure those intangibles? How does that translate to other defenders on his team? I felt bad checking the [Vizquel] box and I felt bad unchecking [Rollins as well. In the end, I couldn’t get past his 11 Gold Gloves, so I checked it. I’ll compare him to Ozzie Smith (who I also pitched against and couldn’t take my eyes off of either). If you have any problem with my hitters selections like Andruw Jones above or Dick Allen on the Classic Era Ballot, please see Hall of Famer Harold Baines for comparison.”

 

Ballot No. 55 – Anonymous Former Washington Nationals Ballplayer

  1. Curtis Granderson
  2. Torii Hunter
  3. Andruw Jones
  4. Manny Ramirez
  5. CC Sabathia
  6. Ichiro Suzuki
  7. Omar Vizquel

Ballplayer also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Ken Boyer
  3. Steve Garvey
  4. Tommy John
  5. Dave Parker
  6. Luis Tiant

 

Ballot No. 54 – Anonymous Former Kansas City Royals Ballplayer

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Mark Buehrle
  3. Andruw Jones
  4. Manny Ramirez
  5. Ichiro Suzuki
  6. Billy Wagner

 

Ballot No. 53 – Anonymous Former MVP Award Winner

  1. Bobby Abreu
  2. Carlos Beltrán
  3. Torii Hunter
  4. Andruw Jones
  5. Álex Rodríguez
  6. Jimmy Rollins
  7. CC Sabathia
  8. Ichiro Suzuki
  9. Chase Utley
  10. Billy Wagner

Ballplayer also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Steve Garvey
  3. Dave Parker

 

Ballot No. 52 – Jesse Levis

  1. Andruw Jones
  2. Dustin Pedroia
  3. Andy Pettitte
  4. Manny Ramirez
  5. Jimmy Rollins
  6. CC Sabathia
  7. Ichiro Suzuki
  8. Chase Utley
  9. Omar Vizquel
  10. Billy Wagner

Jesse also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Dave Parker
  3. Luis Tiant

 

Ballot No. 51 – Matt Ford

  1. Bobby Abreu
  2. Carlos Beltrán
  3. Torii Hunter
  4. Dustin Pedroia
  5. Manny Ramirez
  6. Álex Rodríguez
  7. Ichiro Suzuki
  8. Billy Wagner

Write-in: Pete Rose, Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, and Kenny Lofton.

Matt also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Steve Garvey

 

Ballot No. 50 – Kevin Mench

  1. Andruw Jones
  2. Andy Pettitte
  3. Manny Ramirez
  4. Álex Rodríguez
  5. Ichiro Suzuki
  6. Billy Wagner

 

Ballot No. 49 – Terry Shumpert

  1. CC Sabathia
  2. Ichiro Suzuki

Terry also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Dave Parker

 

Ballot No. 48 – Jordy Mercer

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Torii Hunter
  3. Andruw Jones
  4. Manny Ramirez
  5. CC Sabathia
  6. Ichiro Suzuki
  7. Chase Utley
  8. Omar Vizquel
  9. Billy Wagner
  10. David Wright

Jordy also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Ken Boyer
  3. Dave Parker

 

Ballot No. 47 – Anonymous Former Houston Astros Ballplayer

  1. Andruw Jones
  2. Andy Pettitte
  3. Manny Ramirez
  4. Álex Rodríguez
  5. CC Sabathia
  6. Ichiro Suzuki
  7. Billy Wagner

Ballplayer also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot, but opted to submit a blank ballot.

 

Ballot No. 46 – Dana Eveland

  1. Félix Hernández
  2. Andruw Jones
  3. Brian McCann
  4. Manny Ramirez
  5. Jimmy Rollins
  6. CC Sabathia
  7. Ichiro Suzuki
  8. Chase Utley
  9. Omar Vizquel
  10. Billy Wagner

Dana also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dave Parker
  2. Luis Tiant

 

Ballot No. 45 – Anonymous Former Chicago Cubs All-Star

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Félix Hernández
  3. Andruw Jones
  4. Andy Pettitte
  5. Manny Ramirez
  6. Álex Rodríguez
  7. CC Sabathia
  8. Ichiro Suzuki
  9. Chase Utley
  10. Billy Wagner

Ballplayer also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Steve Garvey
  3. Tommy John
  4. Dave Parker
  5. Luis Tiant

 

Ballot No. 44 – Anonymous Former Miami Marlins Ballplayer

  1. Mark Buehrle
  2. Félix Hernández
  3. CC Sabathia
  4. Ichiro Suzuki
  5. Billy Wagner

Ballplayer also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Tommy John

 

Ballot No. 43 – Anonymous Former Los Angeles Dodgers Ballplayer

  1. Andruw Jones
  2. Manny Ramirez
  3. Álex Rodríguez
  4. Ichiro Suzuki
  5. Omar Vizquel
  6. Billy Wagner

Write-in: Jeff Kent and Don Mattingly.

Ballplayer also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Steve Garvey

 

Ballot No. 42 – Anonymous Former Tampa Bay Devil Rays Ballplayer

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Andruw Jones
  3. Manny Ramirez
  4. Álex Rodríguez
  5. CC Sabathia
  6. Ichiro Suzuki
  7. Billy Wagner

 

Ballot No. 41 – Don August

  1. Andy Pettitte
  2. Manny Ramirez
  3. Álex Rodríguez
  4. CC Sabathia
  5. Ichiro Suzuki
  6. Billy Wagner

Don also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Dave Parker

“I voted for only six players on this ballot, I could possibly vote for a couple of more in the future. By voting for Manny Ramirez and Alex Rodriguez, then I suppose other players like Bonds, McGwire, Palmeiro, Clemens, Sosa, and anyone else in that category of steroids should be included. Maybe if I used steroids, then maybe I could have furthered my career. There are others in the Hall of Fame that just didn’t get caught, and I’m not sure if there were rules in place to check these players and to declare them to not be Hall of Fame eligible in the future if ever caught. For Pete Rose, he knew the rules that were in place (and still are) about gambling on baseball. I would like to see Joe Jackson inducted. I don’t think he was involved in the gambling of the 1919 World Series.”

Check out Don’s new book with our pal Mark Knudson here!

 

Ballot No. 40 – Brett Tomko

  1. CC Sabathia
  2. Ichiro Suzuki
  3. Billy Wagner

Tomko also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Tommy John
  2. Dave Parker

“Tommy John should already be in the Hall of Fame – 288 wins, 3.34 ERA, and his surgery changed the entire landscape of getting pitchers back on the mound to compete and not have their careers end. That alone should get him in.”

 

Ballot No. 39 – Anonymous Former Detroit Tigers Ballplayer

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Andruw Jones
  3. Ichiro Suzuki
  4. Billy Wagner

Ballplayer also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Tommy John
  3. Dave Parker

“I am a small hall guy, generally. CC was my toughest call, wouldn’t be right for him to get in when Tommy John has gone 0 for 20 in voting chances. Took Mussina six times and he had a much better career than CC. J-Roll and Utley can’t get in without Kent and Whitaker. I am a no on PED users. For those of us who played through that era and didn’t use, we know the mental advantage users had were as valuable as the physical. Those who said no to PEDs lost opportunities and failed against cheaters, they deserve advocates. Nothing personal but users don’t deserve enshrinement, their great careers should be recognized in the museum only.”

 

Ballot No. 38 – Ben Davis

  1. Bobby Abreu
  2. Andruw Jones
  3. Manny Ramirez
  4. Álex Rodríguez
  5. Ichiro Suzuki
  6. Omar Vizquel
  7. Billy Wagner

Ben also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Steve Garvey
  3. Dave Parker

 

Ballot No. 37 – Will Ohman

  1. Mark Buehrle
  2. Félix Hernández
  3. Andruw Jones
  4. Andy Pettitte
  5. Manny Ramirez
  6. Álex Rodríguez
  7. CC Sabathia
  8. Ichiro Suzuki
  9. Omar Vizquel
  10. Billy Wagner

Will also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Dave Parker
  3. Luis Tiant

“Veteran’s/Old-Timer’s Committee needs some discussion. A well-deserved posthumous honor for Dick Allen. Thankfully, Dave Parker gets to enjoy this honor. Luis Tiant got jobbed for years and then got another dose shortly after passing. He should be in. Shoeless Joe has been guilty by association from 1919-Present. He had a Draft Kings account and didn’t bet. Move on. He 100% should be in.”

 

Ballot No. 36 – Gregg Olson

  1. Andruw Jones
  2. Ichiro Suzuki
  3. Omar Vizquel
  4. Billy Wagner

Gregg also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Tommy John
  3. Dave Parker
  4. Luis Tiant

 

Ballot No. 35 – Kevin Frandsen

  1. Bobby Abreu
  2. Carlos Beltrán
  3. Andruw Jones
  4. Dustin Pedroia
  5. Jimmy Rollins
  6. CC Sabathia
  7. Ichiro Suzuki
  8. Chase Utley
  9. Omar Vizquel
  10. Billy Wagner

Franny also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Dave Parker
  3. Luis Tiant

 

Ballot No. 34 – Anonymous Former Minnesota Twins Ballplayer

  1. Bobby Abreu
  2. Carlos Beltrán
  3. Torii Hunter
  4. Manny Ramirez
  5. Álex Rodríguez
  6. CC Sabathia
  7. Ichiro Suzuki
  8. Billy Wagner

Ballplayer also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Tommy John

 

Ballot No. 33 – Anonymous Former Boston Red Sox Ballplayer

  1. Andruw Jones
  2. Manny Ramirez
  3. Álex Rodríguez
  4. Ichiro Suzuki
  5. Omar Vizquel

Write-in: Barry Bonds, Rogers Clemens, Pete Rose

Ballplayer also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Luis Tiant

 

Ballot No. 32 – Anonymous Former Oakland Athletics All-Star

  1. CC Sabathia
  2. Ichiro Suzuki
  3. Billy Wagner

 

Ballot No. 31 – Scott Feldman

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Félix Hernández
  3. Andruw Jones
  4. Andy Pettitte
  5. Manny Ramirez
  6. Álex Rodríguez
  7. CC Sabathia
  8. Ichiro Suzuki
  9. Chase Utley
  10. Billy Wagner

Scott also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Tommy John
  2. Luis Tiant

 

Ballot No. 30 – Seth McClung

  1. Andruw Jones
  2. Andy Pettitte
  3. Manny Ramirez
  4. Álex Rodríguez
  5. CC Sabathia
  6. Ichiro Suzuki
  7. Billy Wagner

Write-in: Roger Clemens, Pete Rose, Barry Bonds, Sammy Sosa, Mark McGwire, Tommy John

Seth also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Tommy John

“I know, I know, I know Steroids… But let’s be real, we have to acknowledge these players. You can have their biographies include, “this player played in an era where PEDs were extremely prevalent. These players played under the suspicion of PED usage,” however, during their playing era, these PEDs weren’t against the rules. In Alex’s and Manny’s cases, explain that they did fail drug tests. Same for Rose, mention the baseball and then mention the betting.”

 

Ballot No. 29 – Chris Gimenez 

  1. Bobby Abreu
  2. Carlos Beltrán
  3. Andruw Jones
  4. Dustin Pedroia
  5. Manny Ramirez
  6. Álex Rodríguez
  7. Jimmy Rollins
  8. CC Sabathia
  9. Ichiro Suzuki
  10. Billy Wagner

Write-in:

  1. Francisco Rodriguez*

Chris also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Tommy John

“I definitely considered K-Rod I think he eventually gets in!”

“I’m not a huge fan of A-Rod, but he absolutely is one of the greatest players of all time!”

 

Ballot No. 28 – Jonathan Papelbon

  1. Félix Hernández
  2. Andruw Jones
  3. Dustin Pedroia
  4. Andy Pettitte
  5. Manny Ramirez
  6. Álex Rodríguez
  7. Francisco Rodriguez
  8. CC Sabathia
  9. Ichiro Suzuki
  10. Billy Wagner

Pap also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Luis Tiant

“Alex and Manny are the two best right-handed hitters the game has ever seen! I don’t care of they did steroids!”

 

Ballot No. 27 – Aaron Sele

  1. Manny Ramirez
  2. Álex Rodríguez
  3. Ichiro Suzuki
  4. Chase Utley
  5. Omar Vizquel
  6. Billy Wagner

Write-in: Roger Clemens and Barry Bonds

“Roger Clemens and Barry Bonds are a couple of the greatest to ever play. Without a doubt, there are steroid users who are already in the Hall – they should be in as well.”

“Manny Ramirez… one of the best hitters in his era. He could carry a team on his own. Played against him in the [MiLB] and [MLB], kept getting better and has an easy Hall of Fame resume.”

“Alex Rodriguez… probably the best offensive shortstop of All-Time. Easy Hall of Fame candidacy.”

“Ichiro Suzuki… easy Hall of Fame pick, could hit and could’ve hit with power if he had wanted too, quality defender in right as well.”

“Chase Utley… one of the best baseball players during his peak years ever at second base, and a winner. Won baseball games on D, on the bases, with his glove, and knew how to hit in the clutch.”

“Omar Vizquel… best defensive shortstop that played in my era. Used his offensive tools to the best of his ability and was an anchor on one of the best team runs in the 90s.”

“Billy Wagner… enough already!! One of the best closers in all of baseball, in leverage situations and dominating strikeout rates in those as well. Overpowered everyone for a very long time. High quality teammate as well.”

 

Ballot No. 26 – Pat Neshek

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. CC Sabathia
  3. Ichiro Suzuki
  4. Omar Vizquel
  5. Billy Wagner

Write-in: “too many to list”

Pat went with a blank ballot for the Classic Baseball Era Ballot.

“If steroids are accepted I’d vote for Manny Ramirez, Alex Rodriguez, Pettitte, but if Clemens and Bonds aren’t in then good luck with that. I wish Pedroia and Buehrle would’ve played a few more years, they were elite but went out way too early. K-Rod will get more appreciation as the years go on but not at the moment which may help Joe Nathan as well. Pedroia and Utley close but too similar too Lou Whitaker and Willie Randolph.”

“There are tons of guys I’d let in but are not on the current or Veteran Ballots this time around.”

 

Ballot No. 25 – David Aardsma

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Torii Hunter
  3. Andruw Jones
  4. Dustin Pedroia
  5. Andy Pettitte
  6. Francisco Rodriguez
  7. CC Sabathia
  8. Ichiro Suzuki
  9. Omar Vizquel
  10. Billy Wagner

Write-in: Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, Roger [Clemens]

“Barry, Roger, Mark, etc. All pre-testing PED accused players. I have a strong line at pre-testing vs post-testing. Once it was established, and you tested positive or were caught, then no you should not be in.”

DA also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Tommy John
  2. Luis Tiant

I think Pedroia deserves a really in-depth conversation. Incredible teammate and was the heart of those Red Sox teams. Ultimate competitor! K-Rod was absolutely dominant for years and deserves more recognition. Omar is the best defensive shortstop of all time and was close to some key hitting numbers.”

 

Ballot No. 24 – Cameron Rupp

  1. Bobby Abreu
  2. Mark Buehrle
  3. Curtis Granderson
  4. Félix Hernández
  5. Andruw Jones
  6. Dustin Pedroia
  7. Jimmy Rollins
  8. Ichiro Suzuki
  9. Chase Utley
  10. Billy Wagner

Cam went with a blank ballot for the Classic Baseball Era Ballot.

 

Ballot No. 23 – Peter Moylan

  1. Andruw Jones
  2. Andy Pettitte
  3. Manny Ramirez
  4. Álex Rodríguez
  5. CC Sabathia
  6. Ichiro Suzuki
  7. Billy Wagner
  8. David Wright

Write-in: Barry Bonds, Pete Rose, and Roger Clemens.

“If [Billy] Wagner and [Andruw] Jones are denied then the Hall of Fame is broken.” 

 

Ballot No. 22 – Anonymous Former Milwaukee Brewers All-Star

  1. Bobby Abreu
  2. Carlos Beltrán
  3. Torii Hunter
  4. Andruw Jones
  5. Manny Ramirez
  6. Álex Rodríguez
  7. Francisco Rodriguez
  8. Jimmy Rollins
  9. Ichiro Suzuki
  10. Omar Vizquel

Write-in: Pete Rose

 

Ballot No. 21 – Kyle Farnsworth

  1. Andruw Jones
  2. Manny Ramirez
  3. Álex Rodríguez
  4. CC Sabathia
  5. Ichiro Suzuki
  6. Billy Wagner

Write-in: Barry Bonds, Dale Murphy, and Pete Rose.

Kyle also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dave Parker

 

Ballot No. 20 – Anonymous Former New York Mets Ballplayer

  1. CC Sabathia
  2. Ichiro Suzuki
  3. Omar Vizquel
  4. Billy Wagner

 

Ballot No. 19 – Anonymous Former Anaheim Angels Ballplayer

  1. Andruw Jones
  2. Andy Pettitte
  3. Manny Ramirez
  4. Álex Rodríguez
  5. CC Sabathia
  6. Ichiro Suzuki
  7. Omar Vizquel
  8. Billy Wagner

Ballplayer also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Tommy John
  3. Dave Parker
  4. Luis Tiant

 

Ballot No. 18 – Brad Clontz

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Andruw Jones
  3. Ichiro Suzuki
  4. Billy Wagner

 

Ballot No. 17 – Brad Ziegler

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Andruw Jones
  3. Ichiro Suzuki
  4. Billy Wagner

 

Ballot No. 16 – Bob File

  1. Mark Buehrle
  2. Andruw Jones
  3. Andy Pettitte
  4. Manny Ramirez
  5. Álex Rodríguez
  6. CC Sabathia
  7. Ichiro Suzuki
  8. Omar Vizquel
  9. Billy Wagner

Roy also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Steve Garvey
  2. Dave Parker

 

Ballot No. 15 – Roy Oswalt

  1. Bobby Abreu
  2. Carlos Beltrán
  3. Félix Hernández
  4. Andruw Jones
  5. CC Sabathia
  6. Ichiro Suzuki
  7. Billy Wagner

Roy also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Tommy John

 

Ballot No. 14 – Anonymous Former Texas Rangers All-Star

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Andruw Jones
  3. Dustin Pedroia
  4. CC Sabathia
  5. Ichiro Suzuki
  6. Billy Wagner

Ballplayer also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Tommy John

“I think there is a good crop of guys on this ballot – Billy Wagner needs to be in.”

 

Ballot No. 13 – MICHAEL CAMERON

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Félix Hernández
  3. Torii Hunter
  4. Andruw Jones
  5. Andy Pettitte
  6. Manny Ramirez
  7. Álex Rodríguez
  8. CC Sabathia
  9. Ichiro Suzuki
  10. Billy Wagner

With unlimited votes Cammy would also vote for Omar Vizquel, Chase Utley, Bobby Abreu, and Francisco Roriguez.

Cammy also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Tommy John
  3. Dave Parker
  4. Luis Tiant

 

Ballot No. 12 – Mark Knudson

  1. Carlos González
  2. Torii Hunter
  3. Andruw Jones
  4. Manny Ramirez
  5. Álex Rodríguez
  6. CC Sabathia
  7. Ichiro Suzuki
  8. Troy Tulowitzki
  9. Omar Vizquel
  10. Billy Wagner

Write-in: Pete Rose, Roger Clemens, Barry Bonds, and Dale Murphy.

Mark also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Ken Boyer
  3. Tommy John
  4. Dave Parker
  5. Luis Tiant

“Pete Rose, Roger Clemens, Barry Bonds all belong in the museum. It’s not a cathedral. Also, Dale Murphy was arguably the best player in MLB in the 1980s. It’s a joke that he hasn’t been elected yet. Can you tell the full story of an era of baseball without these names?”

 

Ballot No. 11 – Anonymous Former Minnesota Twins Ballplayer

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Andruw Jones
  3. Manny Ramirez
  4. Álex Rodríguez
  5. CC Sabathia
  6. Ichiro Suzuki
  7. Billy Wagner

Ballplayer also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Tommy John
  3. Dave Parker

 

Ballot No. 10 – Anonymous Former Chicago Cubs All-Star

  1. Andy Pettitte
  2. Ichiro Suzuki
  3. Omar Vizquel

Ballplayer also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dave Parker

 

Ballot No. 9 – Frank Catalanotto

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Manny Ramirez
  3. Álex Rodríguez
  4. Ichiro Suzuki

Catalanotto also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dave Parker

 

Ballot No. 8 – Anonymous Former Seattle Mariners Ballplayer

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Félix Hernández
  3. Andruw Jones
  4. Dustin Pedroia
  5. CC Sabathia
  6. Ichiro Suzuki
  7. David Wright

 

Ballot No. 7 – Anonymous National Baseball Hall of Famer

  1. Ichiro Suzuki
  2. Billy Wagner

Hall of Famer also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dave Parker

 

Ballot No. 6 – Anonymous Former Seattle Mariners All-Star

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Andruw Jones
  3. Manny Ramirez
  4. Álex Rodríguez
  5. CC Sabathia
  6. Ichiro Suzuki
  7. Omar Vizquel
  8. Billy Wagner

 

Ballot No. 5 – Anonymous Former Cincinnati Reds All-Star

  1. Bobby Abreu
  2. Carlos Beltrán
  3. Félix Hernández
  4. Andruw Jones
  5. Andy Pettitte
  6. Manny Ramirez
  7. Álex Rodríguez
  8. CC Sabathia
  9. Ichiro Suzuki
  10. Chase Utley

Write-in: Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, Pete Rose, and Curt Schilling.

Ballplayer also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Tommy John
  3. Dave Parker
  4. Luis Tiant

Not having Bonds and Clemens and others from the “steroid era” in the Hall of Fame when there are others from that era who are already in makes no sense.”

 

Ballot No. 4 – Anonymous Former Toronto Blue Jays Ballplayer

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Andruw Jones
  3. Dustin Pedroia
  4. Manny Ramirez
  5. Fernando Rodney
  6. Álex Rodríguez
  7. CC Sabathia
  8. Ichiro Suzuki
  9. Omar Vizquel
  10. Billy Wagner

Ballplayer also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Tommy John

 

Ballot No. 3 – Jeff Frye

  1. Carlos Beltrán
  2. Andruw Jones
  3. CC Sabathia
  4. Ichiro Suzuki
  5. Omar Vizquel
  6. Billy Wagner

Jeff had several players who he would write-in: Dale Murphy, Luis Tiant, Dwight Evans, Kevin Brown, Lou Whitaker, and Dave Parker.

Jeff also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dave Parker
  2. Luis Tiant

 

Ballot No. 2 – Brian McRae

  1. Bobby Abreu
  2. Carlos Beltrán
  3. Andruw Jones
  4. CC Sabathia
  5. Ichiro Suzuki
  6. Billy Wagner

Brian also participated in the Classic Baseball Era Ballot:

  1. Dick Allen
  2. Dave Parker
  3. Luis Tiant

 

Ballot No. 1 – Kevin Youkilis

  1. Félix Hernández
  2. Andruw Jones
  3. Manny Ramirez
  4. Álex Rodríguez
  5. Francisco Rodriguez
  6. CC Sabathia
  7. Ichiro Suzuki
  8. Billy Wagner

Write-in: Pete Rose

“I’ve always held the philosophy that if there was one player in the Hall of Fame that took PEDs, then everyone should be allowed in. While I don’t condone their actions, it was a part of the history of the game.”

Student Intern – Data Science and Baseball Analytics

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Job Title: Student Intern – Data Science and Baseball Analytics

Location: Remote

What We Offer:

  • Seasonal employment during winter break, with the opportunity to extend through the start of the 2025 baseball season.
  • Hands-on experience in baseball analytics and data science.
  • The chance to work on real-world projects that make a meaningful impact in the sports industry.
  • A flexible work environment and schedule to accommodate your studies.
  • A glowing letter of recommendation upon successful completion of your employment.

Compensation: Project-based compensation begins with a flat rate of $186, paid upfront before starting each project. Additional rates will be negotiated based on your experience and the estimated time for project completion.

Position Overview: We are seeking interns with a background in Computer Science, Data Science, or Applied Mathematics. You will work on projects that require data analysis, programming, and user interface design to help us create innovative solutions in baseball analytics.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Collaborate on various projects related to baseball statistics and analytics.
  • Develop data-driven applications using programming languages such as Python, R, or JavaScript.
  • Assist in building user-friendly GUIs for our applications.
  • Contribute to website development and data visualization, enhancing user experience.
  • Analyze and interpret baseball data to derive meaningful insights.

Qualifications:

  • Currently pursuing a degree or equivalent experience in Computer Science, Data Science, Applied Mathematics, or a related field.
  • Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, JavaScript, or SQL.
  • Experience with GUI development and a strong understanding of user interface design principles.
  • Familiarity with web development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) is preferred.
  • Strong analytical skills and a passion for baseball.

If you’re passionate about merging your technical skills with your love for baseball, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to rmspaeder@gmail.com with the subject line “186missionZYG,” along with a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience and interest in the position. While a letter of recommendation is not required, it can be advantageous if you have one from a current professor.

Apply today to join our team and contribute to the future of baseball analytics this offseason!

Revisionist History: Whitewashing the Negro Leagues

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The decision to amalgamate all Negro League records with those of the major leagues presents a distorted narrative of history that fails to fully honor the rich legacy of the Negro Leagues and, frankly, ignores the dark shadow cast on MLB. This move represents a revisionist approach — a subtle yet significant act of historical whitewashing cloaked in the guise of a seemingly benevolent gesture.


Article originally posted on X

It is a profound injustice that the remarkable achievements of these talented athletes may forever remain underappreciated and largely unknown, casting a glaring light on the systemic exclusion they endured from the major leagues.

Segregation stands as a dark chapter in American history, a chapter that should serve as a stark reminder of the enduring struggle for equality and justice in our society today.
By glossing over the profound injustices that plagued both major league baseball and society, we risk erasing the unique and resilient spirit of the Negro Leagues from our collective memory.

MLB’s attempt to merge the histories of the Negro Leagues and MLB into a single narrative overlooks the distinct struggles, triumphs, and cultural significance of the Negro Leagues, which deserve to be celebrated and remembered on their own terms.

It is disingenuous for MLB to lay claim to the legacy of the Negro Leagues, an institution that flourished in spite of the oppressive barriers imposed by a segregated league and society, embodying resilience, excellence, and the enduring pursuit of dreams against all odds.

In a move that seems poised to unfold, the subtle shift by MLB to potentially refer to achievements as “in AL/NL history” instead of “in MLB history” hints at a clandestine strategy to perpetuate a discreet separation between the Negro Leagues and the major leagues. This strategic alteration in language will be a calculated effort to maintain a historical distinction that has long marginalized the profound contributions and significance of the Negro Leagues. I anticipate the unfolding implications of such linguistic maneuvers, and it is crucial that we remain vigilant against any attempts to obfuscate the impact and unique history of the Negro Leagues.

I stand firm in advocating for a more inclusive and authentic portrayal of our shared baseball heritage, one that fully recognizes and honors the enduring legacy of the Negro Leagues within the broader narrative of American sports history rather than whitewashing it.

In essence, MLB is offering a tacit bribe in exchange for collective amnesia, attempting to rewrite the narrative by glossing over uncomfortable truths. This calculated maneuver stands as yet another duplicitous effort by MLB to evade accountability for its past failures, perpetuating a troubling cycle in our historical narrative.

Chase Utley, You are the Man: a Peak Hall of Famer

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What makes a Hall of Famer?

In days past, this question seemed fairly simple to answer: 3,000 hits, 500 home runs, 300 victories, or any other arbitrary – though aesthetically pleasing – benchmark was all but necessary for enshrinement.

Today, though, baseball is viewed through a different lens. Superior? Perhaps. Broader? Definitely.

Modern metrics can often tell an unfavorable story about legends past, and revisionist history can be unkind to the likes of some – Lou Brock tallied just 45.3 wins above replacement (WAR) during his career, a blemish of sorts despite retiring as a career .293 hitter with 3,053 hits and, a then an all-time record, 938 stolen bases. Brock, though, did exactly what was expected of a leadoff hitter during his time – hitting for a high average and stealing a ton of bags, and he did so better than anyone.

I contend that we should not be utilizing sabermetrics or advanced analytics to downplay the greatness of those who have already been granted immortality, instead, use them to continue to usher in a new class of Hall of Famer, those who earn their way in with “their playing ability, integrity, sportsmanship, character, and contributions to the team(s) on which they played” rather than simply aesthetically pleasing numbers.

Chase Utley is a ballplayer who fell short of many of those heralded, rounded career totals, tallying 1,103 runs score, 1,885 hits with 411 doubles, 58 triples, 259 home runs, 1,025 RBI, and 154 stolen bases, toting a .275/.358/.465 triple slash-line along the way… but Utley did so playing a different game.

Utley’s career began in grand fashion as his first big league hit was a grand slam, appropriately called by the late, great Harry Kalas. Kalas would later coin Utley’s nickname, “The Man,” when Utley flashed his baserunning IQ by scoring from second on an infield chopper.

Following his first major league hit in 2003, Utley amassed a career that compares favorably – using several modern metrics – with many of the second basemen who are already enshrined in Cooperstown. And while I do not believe those numbers should be used to depose current Hall of Famers, I do think that it is reasonable to use them to highlight a generational talent.

Utley tallied five seasons at second base with at least 7.0 WAR, matched only by Hall of Famers Charlie Gehringer (5), Joe Morgan (5), Nap Lajoie (6), Eddie Collins (8), and Rogers Hornsby (8) and besting Hall of Famers Jackie Robinson (4) and Ryne Sandberg (4). His five seasons with at least 5.0 wins above average (WAA) are topped only by Lajoie (6), Collins (7), and Hornsby (8), paralleling Morgan, who had five of his own.

Utley’s 64.5 WAR is just 3.4 less than Sandberg had during his career, despite 227 fewer games played, while he tops him in WAA, 40.9 to 38.4. He averaged 5.394 WAR/162, topping the likes of Albert Pujols (5.349), but perhaps more aptly compared across the diamond to Barry Larkin (5.239). Overall, he ranks 56th all-time in WAA at 40.9.

Should Utley receive the Hall of Fame nod, he will be carried largely by his five-year peak from 2005 to 2009, during which he batted .301/.388/.535, something only six other second basemen have done in a single season since Robinson broke the color barrier in 1947… all of whom did so just once.

“World Phucking Champions!”

Utley’s peak also yielded a great deal of World Series success – including a march down Broad Street in 2008. He had seven career World Series home runs. Duke Snider is the only National Leaguer with more (11). In 2009, he tied Mr. October, Reggie Jackson, for most home runs in a single World Series, with five.

“He also contributes with his glovework all the time.”

One of the most over-looked parts of Utley’s game was his defense. During his 16-year career, he was awarded exactly zero Gold Gloves. A great injustice! Defensive runs saved – a metric that was largely in its infancy, and certainly not utilized during award season, during Utley’s career – tells us that Utley was one of the game’s top defenders during his time; in fact, he led not only all second basemen with 131 defensive runs saved (DRS) during an eight-year stretch from 2005 to 2012, but all positions players… period!

Utley’s prowess on the diamond extended to the basepaths. He successfully swiped 154 bases, and he was caught stealing just 22 times – good for a record 87.5 percent success rate. He was a perfect 23-for-23 in 2009, most in a season without being caught until Trea Turner went a perfect 30-for-30 in 2023.

Integrity, Sportsmanship, Character, and the Unwritten Rules

Peter Gammons once recalled, coaches tell the story of a game in which the Dodgers had a big lead in the top of the eighth inning when one younger, enthusiastic teammate stole second base, which ticked off the opposition. When Utley got to the plate in the ninth, he told the opposing catcher to have the pitcher drill him. Then his teammate would understand there are consequences for showing up the opposition.”

Gammons continued, there was a game in which Kershaw wasn’t getting strikes he thought he’d thrown. When the Dodgers got back to the dugout, A.J. Ellis was hollering at the home plate umpire. Utley warned Ellis not to get ejected. Chase grabbed a batboy’s skull cap, a jacket, got a towel, and rounded up a bunch of fresh baseballs and went out to give the umpires the balls, which is the batboy’s job. When the umpire asked him what he was doing, Utley told him he was not going to embarrass the ump, that no one would notice he was out there, but Kershaw had to have some of those pitches. Having spoken his peace, Utley ran back to the dugout like just another clubbie batboy.”

Rule 6.01(j) Sliding to Bases on Double Play Attempts – “The Utley Rule”

If a runner does not engage in a bona fide slide, and initiates (or attempts to make) contact with the fielder for the purpose of breaking up a double play, he should be called for interference under this Rule 6.01. A “bona fide slide” for purposes of Rule 6.01 occurs when the runner:

(1) begins his slide (i.e., makes contact with the ground) before reaching the base; (2) is able and attempts to reach the base with his hand or foot; (3) is able and attempts to remain on the base (except home plate) after completion of the slide; and (4) slides within reach of the base without changing his pathway for the purpose of initiating contact with a fielder.

A runner who engages in a “bona fide slide” shall not be called for interference under this Rule 6.01, even in cases where the runner makes contact with the fielder as a consequence of a permissible slide. In addition, interference shall not be called where a runner’s contact with the fielder was caused by the fielder being positioned in (or moving into) the runner’s legal pathway to the base.

Notwithstanding the above, a slide shall not be a “bona fide slide” if a runner engages in a “roll block,” or intentionally initiates (or attempts to initiate) contact with the fielder by elevating and kicking his leg above the fielder’s knee or throwing his arm or his upper body.

If the umpire determines that the runner violated this Rule 6.01(j), the umpire shall declare both the runner and batter-runner out. Note, however, that if the runner has already been put out then the runner on whom the defense was attempting to make a play shall be declared out.

This rule would have prevented Chase Utley from breaking Ruben Tejada’s leg in Game 2 of the 2015 National League Division Series. However, it did not exist at the time of the game, nor did it exist for any of the 1,632 major league games Utley had played prior to it. Chase played hard; he grew up playing the game hard and takeout slides were long part of the game… until they were not. It is unreasonable to hold Utley accountable for a rule that did not exist at the time of the unfortunately result from a good, smart, hard baseball play.

Hall of Fame Comparison

Chase Utley career:

BA – .275
OBP – .358
SLG – .465
R – 1,103
TOB – 2,813
H – 1,885
2B – 411
HR – 259
XBH – 728
RBI – 1,025
SB – 154
TB – 3,189
DRS – 131
OPS+ – 117
rWAR – 64.5
WAA – 40.9
wOBA – .356
wRC+ – 118
fWAR – 61.6

Hall of Famers:

Cal Ripken Jr. – .276 BA
Roberto Clemente – .359 OBP
Carl Yastrzemski – .462 SLG
Bobby Doerr – 1,094 R
Kirby Puckett – 2,810 TOB
Lou Boudreau – 1,779 H
Ryne Sandberg – 403 2B
Derek Jeter – 260 HR
Barry Larkin – 715 XBH
Wade Boggs – 1,014 RBI
Mickey Mantle – 154 SB
Richie Ashburn – 3,196 TB
Mike Schmidt – 127 DRS
Roberto Alomar – 116 OPS+
Craig Biggio – 65.4 rWAR
Alan Trammell – 40.3 WAA
Tony Perez – .356 wOBA
Ernie Banks – 118 wRC+
Jackie Robinson – 59.9 fWAR

It is easy for the Philadelphia homer in me to call Chase Utley a Hall of Famer, and it would be difficult for any analyst – new-school or old-school – to convince me that, by the numbers, he is not.

As BBWAA become inundated with more forward thinking baseball minds – despite the fact that they continue to fail at their own admission process… more on this to come – I do believe that Chase Utley will one day be granted baseball immortality, perhaps going the way of Scott Rolen with support growing annually.

But for now, all I have left to say – and perhaps the only reason that I have to write this piece is “phucking John Lannan.”

The Ballots: 2024

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Braves' Andruw Jones takes away a two run home run from San Fran Giants' Ray Durham in the top of the 8th inning at Turner Field in Atlanta on Wednesday, August 30, 2006. (KEITH HADLEY / AJC STAFF)
060830 ATLANTA, GA – Braves’ Andruw Jones takes away a two-run home run from San Fran Giants’ Ray Durham in the top of the 8th inning at Turner Field in Atlanta on Wednesday, August 30, 2006. (KEITH HADLEY/AJC STAFF)

Ballot No. 22 – Michael Cameron

1. Bobby Abreu
2. Carlos Beltrán
3. Adrián Beltré
4. Todd Helton
5. Andruw Jones
6. Joe Mauer
7. Gary Sheffield
8. Chase Utley
9. Billy Wagner
10. David Wright

“I would include Jimmy Rollins, Manny Ramirez, A-Rod, Torii Hunter, Andy Pettitte, Omar Vizquel, and Matt Holliday, too. I also believe Lou Whitaker and Jeff Kent have got to be in if we are talking second basemen.”

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Ballot No. 21 – Kevin Frandsen

1. Bobby Abreu
2. Carlos Beltrán
3. Adrián Beltré
4. Todd Helton
5. Andruw Jones
6. Joe Mauer
7. Jimmy Rollins
8. Gary Sheffield
9. Chase Utley
10. Billy Wagner

“I believe that David Wright and Omar Vizquel should also have a spot.”

Abstains from voting for or against Lou Piniella.

 

Ballot No. 20 – Anonymous Hall of Famer

1. Carlos Beltrán
2. Adrián Beltré
3. Todd Helton
4. Billy Wagner

Votes “no” on Lou Piniella.

 

Ballot No. 19 – Gregg Olson

1. Todd Helton
2. Torii Hunter
3. Andruw Jones
4. Billy Wagner

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Ballot No. 18 – Anonymous Former Los Angeles Dodgers Ballplayer

1. Adrián Beltré
2. Todd Helton
3. Andruw Jones
4. Álex Rodríguez
5. Gary Sheffield
6. Omar Vizquel

“Jeff Kent and Don Mattingly need to be in the Hall of Fame.”

Votes “no” on Lou Piniella.

 

Ballot No. 17 – Anonymous Former Seattle Mariners Ballplayer

1. Adrián Beltré
2. Todd Helton
3. Andruw Jones
4. Joe Mauer
5. Manny Ramirez
6. Álex Rodríguez
7. Gary Sheffield
8. Omar Vizquel

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Ballot No. 16 – Anonymous Former Minnesota Twins Ballplayer

1. Adrián Beltré
2. Todd Helton
3. Manny Ramirez
4. Álex Rodríguez
5. Gary Sheffield

“My opinion of the Hall of Fame is that they seem to overlook some players possible PED use players while attacking others. E.g. Ortiz vs Manny R. It appears that some are very GUILTY of being better than others: Bonds and Clemens.”

Abstains from voting for or against Lou Piniella.

 

Ballot No. 15 – Anonymous Former San Francisco Giants All-Star

1. Adrián Beltré
2. Todd Helton
3. Gary Sheffield
4. Billy Wagner

“I wish I had gotten some more consideration.” (He would have with modern voting).

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

Ballot No. 14 – Cody Asche

1. Bobby Abreu
2. Adrián Beltré
3. Todd Helton
4. Andruw Jones
5. Joe Mauer
6. Andy Pettitte
7. Jimmy Rollins
8. Gary Sheffield
9. Chase Utley
10. Billy Wagner

With unlimited votes, Cody would also include A-Rod, Manny, and K-Rod; he also thinks that Bonds, Clemens, and Rose should be in the Hall of Fame.

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Ballot No. 13 – Anonymous Former Texas Rangers All-Star

1. Adrián Beltré
2. Todd Helton
3. Andruw Jones
4. Joe Mauer
5. Billy Wagner

Abstains from voting for or against Lou Piniella.

 

Ballot No. 12 – Aaron Sele

1. Adrián Beltré
2. Todd Helton
3. Manny Ramirez
4. Álex Rodríguez
5. Gary Sheffield
6. Omar Vizquel
7. Billy Wagner

“AB – should be the 2nd ever unanimous ballot, a HOF player and teammate.

Helton – very underrated and I don’t care where he played, you couldn’t get him out.

Ramirez/Rodriguez – a pair of the best hitters EVER. There are already guys in the HOF who were steroid users so don’t use that argument here.

Sheffield – 500 enough said

Vizquel – he gets my vote because if my daughters lives were on the line, there is no one else I’d rather have picking up that ground ball. (and I couldn’t get him out)

Wagner – the most underrated closer of all time, dominating”

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Ballot No. 11 – Jeff Frye (@shegone03)

1. Adrián Beltré
2. Todd Helton

“Pete Rose, Dave Parker, Dale Murphy, and Lou Whitaker all belong.”

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Ballot No. 10 – Pat Neshek (@PatNeshek)

1. Carlos Beltrán
2. Adrián Beltré
3. Todd Helton
4. Joe Mauer
5. Omar Vizquel
6. Billy Wagner

“Hard not to vote for Manny Ramirez, Alex Rodriguez, Gary Sheffield, and Andy Pettitte, but PED use kills it for me if that is what holds Bonds/Clemens and others back. On the fence with Mauer because half his career he wasn’t a catcher, being a catcher gets him in but is that how we should value him? I wish Buehrle would’ve played a few more years, he was elite. K-Rod may get more appreciation as the years go on but not at the moment. Utley close but too similar to Lou Whitaker and Willie Randolph, Pedroia… do they get in as well? Curt Schilling should be in the Hall of Fame as well as Leyland and even though it makes me laugh to say, Joe West.”

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Ballot No. 9 – Matt Clark (@MattClark60)

1. Adrián Beltré
2. Todd Helton
3. Andruw Jones
4. Joe Mauer
5. Jimmy Rollins
6. Gary Sheffield
7. Billy Wagner

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Ballot No. 8 – Anonymous Former Pittsburgh Pirates Ballplayer

1. Adrián Beltré
2. Bartolo Colon
3. Todd Helton
4. Andruw Jones
5. Joe Mauer
6. Andy Pettitte
7. Manny Ramirez
8. Álex Rodríguez
9. Gary Sheffield
10. Chase Utley

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Ballot No. 7 – Bob File 

1. Adrián Beltré
2. Todd Helton
3. Andruw Jones
4. Joe Mauer
5. Manny Ramirez
6. Álex Rodríguez
7. Gary Sheffield
8. Omar Vizquel
9. Billy Wagner

“Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.”

 

Ballot No. 6 – Anonymous Former Miami Marlins Ballplayer

1. Adrián Beltré
2. Mark Buehrle
3. Todd Helton
4. Gary Sheffield
5. Billy Wagner

Votes “no” on Lou Piniella.

 

Ballot No. 5 – Seth McClung (@Seth_3773)

1. Adrián Beltré
2. Todd Helton
3. Andruw Jones
4. Manny Ramirez
5. Álex Rodríguez
6. Gary Sheffield
7. Billy Wagner

“Rodger Clemens, Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa, and Curt Schilling should all be in…

I’m unsure about Lou. I’d rather not say or comment on it, but you made me pick yes or no. I acknowledge the “steroid” era, I think these players should still get in. We still had to play against them, and most of these guys played during a time that taking these substances weren’t against the rules. I mean, I look at it like the spitball the mlb outlawed it but let grandfathered players play beyond the rules.

Let’s be very honest, those guys were great for the game. We can’t take the moral high ground when we all knew what those guys were doing.

And let’s not forget Dale Murphy and Pete Rose. Tommy John should be in too for his contributions to the game.”

Leans “yes” on Lou Piniella, but would prefer not to choose. 

 

Ballot No. 4 – Mark Knudson (@MarkKnudson41)

1. Carlos Beltrán
2. Adrián Beltré
3. Todd Helton
4. Matt Holliday
5. Andruw Jones
6. Joe Mauer
7. Manny Ramirez
8. Álex Rodríguez
9. Gary Sheffield
10. Billy Wagner

“The guys I would put in the Hall immediately aren’t on this ballot. It’s a travesty that Dale Murphy isn’t in the Hall of Fame. One of the very best, if not THE best player of the 1980s. Like them or not, Clemens, Bonds, McGwire all belong in the Hall; so does Pete Rose. I believe the Hall should be a museum, not a cathedral. If you can’t tell the story of the game during a particular “generation,” without including that player, he belongs in the Hall. For example, Roger Maris is more famous and more noteworthy than 30 percent of the players in the Hall. You can’t tell the story of the all-time home run record without him.”

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Ballot No. 3 – Mark Little

1. Bobby Abreu
2. Carlos Beltrán
3. Adrián Beltré
4. Todd Helton
5. Andruw Jones
6. Andy Pettitte
7. Manny Ramirez
8. Álex Rodríguez
9. Gary Sheffield
10. Billy Wagner

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Ballot No. 2 – Frank Catalanotto (@fcat27)

1. Carlos Beltrán
2. Adrián Beltré
3. Manny Ramirez
4. Álex Rodríguez
5. Gary Sheffield

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Ballot No. 1 – Anonymous Former Anaheim Angels Ballplayer

1. Adrián Beltré
2. Todd Helton
3. Andruw Jones
4. Andy Pettitte
5. Manny Ramirez
6. Álex Rodríguez
7. Gary Sheffield
8. Billy Wagner

“If Dale Murphy isn’t in, several of these really good players shouldn’t be in.”

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

Fan Ballots: 2024

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First Annual Fan Hall of Fame Ballot

Fan Ballot No. 24 – @jakerepp15

1. Adrián Beltré
2. Todd Helton
3. Andruw Jones
4. Joe Mauer
5. Manny Ramirez
6. Álex Rodríguez
7. Gary Sheffield
8. Chase Utley

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Fan Ballot No. 23 – @BeBlank

1. Adrián Beltré
2. Todd Helton
3. Andy Pettitte
4. Manny Ramirez
5. Álex Rodríguez
6. Billy Wagner

“Barry, Roger, and Curt all belong.”

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Fan Ballot No. 22 – @AndrewHines21

1. Carlos Beltrán
2. Adrián Beltré
3. Todd Helton
4. Andruw Jones
5. Joe Mauer
6. Manny Ramirez
7. Álex Rodríguez
8. Jimmy Rollins
9. Gary Sheffield
10. Billy Wagner

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Fan Ballot No. 21 – @Cott10

1. Adrián Beltré
2. Andruw Jones
3. Manny Ramirez
4. Billy Wagner

Votes “no” on Lou Piniella.

 

Fan Ballot No. 20 – @_CubsFanSteve

1. Carlos Beltrán
2. Adrián Beltré
3. Todd Helton
4. Andruw Jones
5. Joe Mauer
6. Gary Sheffield
7. Billy Wagner

Votes “no” on Lou Piniella.

 

Fan Ballot No. 19 – @AndrewHines21

1. Carlos Beltrán
2. Adrián Beltré
3. Todd Helton
4. Andruw Jones
5. Joe Mauer
6. Manny Ramirez
7. Álex Rodríguez
8. Jimmy Rollins
9. Gary Sheffield
10. Billy Wagner

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Fan Ballot No. 18 – @porp02

1. Bobby Abreu
2. Adrián Beltré
3. Todd Helton
4. Andruw Jones
5. Jimmy Rollins
6. Gary Sheffield
7. Chase Utley
8. Billy Wagner

“Dick Allen, Roger Clemens, Curt Schilling, Barry Bonds and Pete Rose – I know they’re not on the ballot but they all deserve to be in the Hall of Fame. Thank you for doing this, can’t wait for the results!”

Votes “no” on Lou Piniella.

 

Fan Ballot No. 17 – @YakAttack

1. Bobby Abreu
2. Carlos Beltrán
3. Todd Helton
4. Andruw Jones
5. Andy Pettitte
6. Manny Ramirez
7. Álex Rodríguez
8. Jimmy Rollins
9. Gary Sheffield
10. Chase Utley

Would also vote for Beltre, Buehrle, Hunter, Mauer, Wagner, and Wright with unlimited votes.

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Fan Ballot No. 16 – @Peterfrost

1. Adrián Beltré
2. Todd Helton
3. Joe Mauer
4. Manny Ramirez
5. Álex Rodríguez

“Barry Bonds should be in the Hall of Fame.”

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Fan Ballot No. 15 – @Tbrucato

1. Adrián Beltré
2. Andruw Jones
3. Manny Ramirez
4. Álex Rodríguez
5. Billy Wagner

Votes “no” on Lou Piniella.

 

Fan Ballot No. 14 – @tlschwerzer

1. Carlos Beltrán
2. Adrián Beltré
3. Todd Helton
4. Andruw Jones
5. Joe Mauer
6. Andy Pettitte
7. Manny Ramirez
8. Álex Rodríguez
9. Gary Sheffield
10. Billy Wagner

He would also vote for Bobby Abreu and Chase Utley with unlimited votes.

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Fan Ballot No. 13 – @Kjtwo6

1. Adrián Beltré
2. Bartolo Colon
3. Todd Helton
4. Torii Hunter
5. Andruw Jones
6. Joe Mauer
7. Manny Ramirez
8. Álex Rodríguez
9. Jimmy Rollins
10. Gary Sheffield

“I also would vote for Barry Bonds, Pete Rose, Mark McGwire, and Sammy Sosa. I love what you’re trying to accomplish with the Hall of Fame. I’ve been following you for years.”

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Fan Ballot No. 12 – @damionreuvers

1. Carlos Beltrán
2. Adrián Beltré
3. Torii Hunter
4. Joe Mauer
5. Manny Ramirez
6. Álex Rodríguez
7. Francisco Rodriguez
8. Gary Sheffield
9. Chase Utley
10. Billy Wagner

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Fan Ballot No. 11 – @Ryan_red_ehredt

1. Adrián Beltré
2. Todd Helton
3. Andruw Jones
4. Joe Mauer
5. Gary Sheffield

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Fan Ballot No. 10 – @Hortonmr

1. Adrián Beltré
2. Andruw Jones
3. Manny Ramirez
4. Álex Rodríguez
5. Gary Sheffield
6. Billy Wagner

Votes “no” on Lou Piniella.

 

Fan Ballot No. 9 – @austinhyde1

1. Carlos Beltrán
2. Adrián Beltré
3. Andruw Jones
4. Joe Mauer
5. Manny Ramirez
6. Álex Rodríguez
7. Gary Sheffield
8. Billy Wagner

“Andruw Jones should have been a first ballot hall of famer. The greatest defensive outfielder of all-time who also hit 434 home runs. Criminal it’s taken this long.”

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Fan Ballot No. 8 – @PeterNY15

1. Carlos Beltrán
2. Adrián Beltré
3. Andruw Jones
4. Manny Ramirez
5. Álex Rodríguez
6. Gary Sheffield

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Fan Ballot No. 7 – @okgolf

1. Carlos Beltrán
2. Adrián Beltré
3. Todd Helton
4. Andruw Jones
5. Joe Mauer
6. Manny Ramirez
7. Álex Rodríguez
8. Gary Sheffield

“Bonds and Clemens should be in… Cool idea here, thanks for including us fans.”

Votes “no” on Lou Piniella.

 

Fan Ballot No. 6 – @oneskylinedrive

1. Bobby Abreu
2. Adrián Beltré
3. Todd Helton
4. Andruw Jones
5. Manny Ramirez
6. Álex Rodríguez
7. Gary Sheffield

“I’d vote Bonds, Sosa, Schilling, and Clemons too. Rose, also.”

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Fan Ballot No. 5 – @Ifihityou

1. Bobby Abreu
2. Carlos Beltrán
3. Adrián Beltré
4. Todd Helton
5. Andruw Jones
6. Joe Mauer
7. Jimmy Rollins
8. Chase Utley
9. Billy Wagner
10. David Wright

He would also vote for Alex Rodriguez, Manny Ramirez, Gary Sheffield, Andy Petitte, Mark Buehrle, and Bartolo Colon with unlimited votes.

“I believe the best should be in for what they did on the field. Don’t care about PEDs (they didn’t impact the game anyway, it was the ball then, just like now). I believe players should be evaluated with era, ballpark, and positional normalization (or adjustments), and both for peak and career performance.”

Votes “no” on Lou Piniella.

 

Fan Ballot No. 4 – @MLBMarathon

1. Carlos Beltrán
2. Adrián Beltré
3. Andruw Jones
4. Joe Mauer
5. Andy Pettitte
6. Álex Rodríguez
7. Gary Sheffield
8. Chase Utley
9. Billy Wagner
10. David Wright

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Fan Ballot No. 3 – @querysgonnabk1

1. Bobby Abreu
2. Adrián Beltré
3. Mark Buehrle
4. Todd Helton
5. Matt Holliday
6. Torii Hunter
7. Andruw Jones
8. Joe Mauer
9. James Shields

“First year players: Beltré, Holliday, and Mauer should be in; Shields should stay on the ballot for more time to think about him.”

Votes “no” on Lou Piniella.

 

Fan Ballot No. 2 – @sgomez24x

  1. Adrián Beltré
  2. Manny Ramirez
  3. Álex Rodríguez

Votes “yes” on Lou Piniella.

 

Fan Ballot No. 1 – @theaceofspaeder:

1. Bobby Abreu
2. Adrián Beltré
3. Todd Helton
4. Torii Hunter
5. Andruw Jones
6. Manny Ramirez
7. Álex Rodríguez
8. Jimmy Rollins
9. Gary Sheffield
10. Chase Utley

I would also vote for Carlos Beltrán, Joe Mauer, and Billy Wagner with unlimited votes, and I vote “yes” on Lou Piniella.

The Phillies Are Juicing

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www.allproreels.com — Washington Nationals vs Philadelphia Phillies, at Nats Park, Washington DC, May 13th, 2021

I think a lot of people have it all wrong in regards to the Phillies’ home field advantage.

It’s not about rowdy fans disrupting the rhythm, timing, and general chutzpah of opposing players (although it’s a worthwhile, and sometimes successful, strategy). I think we too often forget that these world-class athletes are also pretty darn good at stress management. And with that in mind, I think it’s ironic that Philly has a reputation for being belligerently tough on opposing players— because it’s the exact opposite force that gives the Fightins their edge.

It’s all about good vibes.

Fans can boo and/or taunt opposing players all they want, but pro athletes are (mostly) trained killers who’ve built up an immunity to the tomfoolery of angry mobs.  The Minor League system is for improving baseball skills and acclimating to stronger competition, but it’s also about having your physical appearance ridiculed by an elderly Isotopes fan your very first day in Albuquerque. Players don’t particularly like complete strangers shitting on them, but they’re used to it. What pro athletes will NEVER be impervious to, though, is feverish, aggressively obsessive admiration and support. It’s what the Phillies get every time they take the postseason field at Citizen’s Bank Park. It’s far more accurate to call it a performance-enhancing drug than an “advantage.”

These players routinely talk about the energy at CBP and feeding off the fans, and it would be a mistake to dismiss that as platitudinous athlete-speak. What they’re really doing is confessing. They have an edge. After yesterday’s 10-0 defeat to the juiced-up Phillies in the NLCS, Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo disagreed:

“[The fans] were about what we expected… to be honest with you, the final game against the Dodgers at Chase Field, when it was rockin’ with 50,000 strong… I was proud of our fans, and it was about the same… same intensity, same volume.”

I’m sure it was loud that day at Chase. The Dbacks have a proud, rich 26-year history in the community, and that counts for something. It’s cute that Lovullo would say this, but I’ve seen fans get tased on the field at CBP. Before that, I heard seating sections at Vet stadium talked about like bad neighborhoods. There’s a lot of excitement in Phoenix, but the excitement in Philadelphia borders on madness.  Therein lies the edge.

There’s a reason the Phillies seem to kick it up a notch in the postseason; it’s because the fans are raising the bar, and every single Phillie gets their fix of auditory PEDs. They’re all doping. And it makes sense, intrinsically. If all of my neighbors came over to cheer me on as I shoveled the driveway, there’s no doubt I’d put up one of the top five driveway-shoveling performances of my life. I’d be consistently getting the icy bottom layer on the first scoop, artfully launching into snow piles that resemble the majestic rolling hills of Tuscany. And without that support, I’d need a couple beers and AirPods blasting a podcast explaining Brexit just to drunkenly half-ass my way through it.

That’s why it was so important for Philadelphia to take Game 1 of the NLDS against the Braves in Atlanta. It stole home field advantage and gave Philly fans a powerful say in who would win the series. Allowing Philadelphia to close things out at home was like that scene in “A Bronx Tale”— the Phillies and their fans locked the door and said, “Now youse can’t leave.”

It’s just different here. Lovullo doesn’t get it because he’s in the wrong dugout. He’ll hear their boos, and they’ll roll off his back, but he’ll never understand what it’s like to feel their adrenaline-boosting love.

Other fans support their teams, but Phillies fans give them drugs. It’s a trip.