The BBWAA recently released their ballot for the Hall of Fame class of 2020. The results of the vote are due to be revealed on January 21st, with induction taking place July 26th. After Mariano Rivera, Mike Mussina, Edgar Martinez, and Roy Halladay were elected in last year’s voting, the new ballot contains 14 holdovers along with 18 newcomers, which may potentially continue the logjam caused by the current BBWAA rules which limit the number of votes on one ballot to 10 and the ongoing refusal by some writers to vote for players tainted by PEDs, leaving too many qualified candidates fighting for limited spots.
Yesterday, we looked at the returning candidates. Today, it’s time to look at the newcomers and who may be thankful come January.
Bobby Abreu
I’ll be honest, I can see him getting some modest support, but I never considered him a Hall of Fame player during his career.
Josh Beckett
I’m sure he’ll get some support, but I don’t see it translating into an eventual election.
Heath Bell
I wonder what it feels like to be placed on the ballot knowing that you won’t earn even a single vote.
Eric Chavez
Again, I’m sure he’ll see a little support, but he’s not going to make it.
Adam Dunn
There aren’t enough home runs in the world to make up for the rest of his game.
Chone Figgins
Come on, now. This is getting a little ridiculous.
Rafael Furcal
A career to be proud of, but not one that ends with election to the Hall.
Jason Giambi
The 2000 AL MVP should stick around on the ballot, but the PED stigma will likely keep him on the outside looking in.
Raul Ibanez
The former slugger may get a little support, but not enough to keep him on the ballot for a second go-around.
Derek Jeter
The only question here is whether he will join his former teammate, Mariano Rivera, in getting 100% of the vote.
Paul Konerko
Personal feelings aside, he will likely see enough support to hang on the ballot, but not enough to actually make it.
Cliff Lee
With Game 1 of the 2017 NLCS between the Cubs and Dodgers in the books, it’s time to take an updated look at the pitching leaders from the 9 LCS games I’ve attended prior to last night since 2003, featuring the White Sox, Cubs, Angels, Marlins, Dodgers, and Mets.