The Quest for Baseball Immortality: Unveiling the 2024 Hall of Fame Candidates
Making it onto the Baseball Hall of Fame ballot is an achievement in itself. This year, a select group of twelve newcomers are vying for a spot, but the real challenge lies in surpassing the 5% threshold and maintaining their presence on the ballot to build momentum. Just look at Andruw Jones, who, with a 7.3% vote, might be inducted this year, joining recent honorees Scott Rolen, Billy Wagner, and Todd Helton.
Last year's ballot featured 14 first-timers, with Ichiro Suzuki and CC Sabathia securing their places in Cooperstown. Felix Hernandez and Dustin Pedroia also made it past the 5% mark, while others fell short.
The good news for this year's first-timers is that ballot space has opened up due to the departure of Curt Schilling, Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, and Gary Sheffield, who all polled over 60% during their ten years on the ballot. Manny Ramirez, who never surpassed 34%, gets his final shot on the BBWAA ballot this year.
Among the 12 first-time candidates, Cole Hamels stands out as the most likely to clear the 5% hurdle. However, each of these players has left an indelible mark on the game, and their stories are worth exploring.
Ryan Braun: The Asterisked Career
Ryan Braun, the Brewers' outfielder, had a remarkable career, but it's marred by a significant asterisk. He's one of only 18 players in baseball history to achieve the 350-homer, 200-stolen base feat, and one of just three to do so with a single team (joining Jeff Bagwell and Mike Trout). Unfortunately, his legacy is overshadowed by a scandalous episode in 2012, where he denied using PEDs despite later admitting to their use. His career is a tragic tale of deception and fraud.
Shin-Soo Choo: The Consistent Contributor
Choo crafted a long and lucrative career, falling just short of greatness. He never hit 25 homers or drove in 100 runs, but he was a reliable on-base machine. His closest statistical comparison is Jayson Werth, and their careers share similarities in home runs, RBI, OBP, and earnings. Choo's ability to get on base and draw walks made him a valuable asset to winning teams.
Edwin Encarnacion: The Parrot and the Power
Edwin Encarnacion's iconic home run trots, including the famous 'Parrot' celebration, have earned him a place on the ballot. His 424 home runs, including eight straight seasons with at least 30 homers, are a testament to his power. Only three players not linked to PEDs have achieved this feat in their thirties: Babe Ruth, Mike Schmidt, and Encarnacion.
Gio Gonzalez: The Lefty with a Unique Curve
Gio Gonzalez, the last left-hander to win over 20 games and throw 199 innings, achieved this feat in 2012. His unique curveball, taught to him by his father, and his durable, low-effort delivery kept him in the game. With 131 wins and 1,933 innings thrown, Gonzalez is among an elite group of lefties in recent history.
Alex Gordon: The Royals' Mainstay
Alex Gordon played 14 years with the Royals, winning eight Gold Gloves and appearing in three All-Star Games. He's also the subject of a popular 'What If?' scenario, imagining what would have happened if he had been waved home in the 2014 World Series Game 7. Gordon's career is a testament to his dedication and skill, and his impact on the Royals' success is undeniable.
Cole Hamels: Underappreciated Greatness
Hamels' career numbers speak for themselves: 163 wins and an ERA+ of 123. He's in the company of baseball legends like Rube Waddell, Lefty Grove, and Randy Johnson. His understated greatness often goes unnoticed, but his impact on the game is undeniable.
Matt Kemp: Peak Performance and Injury Woes
In 2011, Matt Kemp had a career year, leading the league in WAR, runs, home runs, RBI, total bases, and OPS+. However, his career was plagued by injuries, including a notorious incident where his lack of hustle led to an ankle injury. Despite his talent, Kemp's injury-prone nature hindered his longevity.
Howie Kendrick: The Hero of Nationals History
Howie Kendrick's two-run homer off Will Harris in the 2019 World Series Game 7 is a defining moment in Nationals history. It turned a deficit into a lead and ultimately led to a 5-2 victory. Kendrick's ability to hit opposite-field homers, despite being a rarity, showcases his versatility.
Nick Markakis: Consistency and Durability
Nick Markakis, a product of Young Harris College, boasts the highest career WAR of any alumnus. He was a consistent and durable player, appearing in 160 games seven times. His defensive prowess and line-drive stroke made him a valuable asset to any team.
Daniel Murphy: The Kevin Long Effect
Daniel Murphy's career took a turn for the better under the guidance of hitting coach Kevin Long. He transformed from a doubles hitter into a power-hitting slugger, with his best years coming in his thirties. His ability to adjust and improve his game is a testament to his dedication.
Hunter Pence: The Marionette Marvel
Hunter Pence's unique playing style, influenced by Scheuermann's Disease, made him a true 'glue guy'. His ability to get his bat on any pitch, combined with his hustle and unselfishness, made him a valuable asset to the Giants' World Series-winning teams.
Rick Porcello: Control and Command
Rick Porcello's smooth mechanics and pinpoint command allowed him to win 22 games while walking only 32 batters in the live-ball era. He was a young workhorse, making 307 starts from ages 20 to 29. His early retirement at 31, with 150 wins, is a testament to his impact and longevity.
