The BBWAA released their ballot for the Hall of Fame class of 2016 last Monday. The results of the vote are due to be revealed on January 6th, with induction taking place next July. After Craig Biggio, Randy Johnson, Pedro Martinez, and John Smoltz were elected in last year’s voting, the new ballot contains 17 holdovers along with 15 newcomers, which may start to cause a bit of a problem. The current BBWAA rules continue to limit the number of votes on one ballot to 10, and there may be more than 10 deserving candidates, so there will be too many qualified candidates fighting for limited spots in a shorter amount of time. Once again, the BBWAA and the Hall may find themselves with a mess on their hands.
Last Thursday, we looked at the returning candidates. Today, it’s time to look at the newcomers and who will be thankful come January.
Garret Anderson
The long-time Angel had a proud career, but has no chance to stay on the ballot for another year, let alone earn election at some point.
Brad Ausmus
It should be a quick one and out for the current Tigers manager.
Luis Castillo
Again, a perfectly acceptable career, but will be lucky to get a sympathy vote from a hometown writer.
David Eckstein
Wow, this batch of newcomers is starting to look a little weak.
Jim Edmonds
The defensive whiz will likely get some support, but not enough to get elected in this, or any other, year.
Troy Glaus
Another long time Angel who has no chance of being elected.
Ken Griffey Jr.
The former Mariner, Red, and White Sox outfielder is likely to be the only newcomer elected in his first year of eligibility. 630 career home runs, without a hint of PED suspicion, will let him easily surpass the 75% threshold.
Mark Grudzielanek
Yeah, that’s not going to happen.
Mike Hampton
The one-time poster child for bad long term contracts is unlikely to get much support in what should be his one HOF election.
Trevor Hoffman
The all-time saves leader will likely see support and may eventually earn election, but will not make it on the first ballot.
Jason Kendall
Not bloody likely.
Mike Lowell
May earn a few votes here and there, but shouldn’t survive the 5% cutoff.
Mike Sweeney
Sadly, being the best Royal on a string of bad Royals teams does not get one entry to the HOF.
Billy Wagner
It’s tough business being a closer on the HOF ballot and even worse when Trevor Hoffman is on the same ballot. I don’t expect Wagner to get much support, but enough to stick around for another election or two.
Randy Winn
Nope.