Cooperstown Chronicles - Hall of Fame Disappointment

The votes are in.  The 2009 Hall of Fame class will consist of Rickey Henderson and Jim Rice.  Rickey got in on his first try and Rice on his last.  As a Red Sox fan I am thrilled that Rice got in, but as a baseball fan I’m saddened that he did not have more company.  As good as Rice was, I think that there were more deserving players left off the ballot.  Andre Dawson for example was also a incredible hitter that happened to run well AND played Gold Glove defense.  Bert Byleven won 287 games and was a strikeout and shutout king.  Jack Morris was the winningest pitcher in the 80’s with an amazing postseason resume.  Maybe next year for them when only Roberto Alomar  makes a strong case for first-ballot induction.  Here’s a look at the votes. I don’t know how you can maintain voting eligibility if you did not vote for Rickey Henderson.  He’s only the all-time leader in runs, walks, and stolen bases and ... (link)