The Class of 2027 is shaping up to be a powerhouse lineup in the Baseball Hall of Fame elections. Among those considered likely to join the hallowed ranks on their first try are Buster Posey and Jon Lester, two former MVPs and three-time world champions. While Pujols' 1,500 career hits may seem like a shortfall for consideration, his impressive résumé including four batting titles, two MVP awards, and a Gold Glove makes him a formidable candidate.
Lester, on the other hand, boasts an incredible postseason record with nine playoff appearances and three world championships. His post-season ERA of 2.51 is the lowest among starters with at least 20 starts and 75 innings pitched. With a .631 winning percentage, he could potentially edge out his career ERA (3.66) and modest win total.
However, not everyone has an easy ride to Cooperstown. Pettitte, who won 19 post-season games for the Yankees, will need significant gains from this year's 48.5% mark in order to surpass the 50% threshold needed for induction. Fellow pitcher Felix Hernandez, a dominant force in his prime but struggling with longevity, sees a potential bounce back in his vote percentage after jumping to 46.1% this year.
The stage is also set for some notable managerial candidates to get the nod from the Eras Committee. Dusty Baker and Bruce Bochy are among those highly regarded by voters, having led teams to world championships during their careers. Lou Piniella's multiple attempts to break through could yield results next year, while Cito Gaston and Davey Johnson's own long histories of success may finally catch up with them.
Beyond the managerial front, several strong infield candidates are vying for a spot in Cooperstown. Jimmy Rollins, Dustin Pedroia, and David Wright join Chase Utley, whose impressive jump from 39.8% to 59.1% this year has bolstered his case.
On the cusp of joining the likes of Cabrera, who is all but certain to win election next year with his impressive résumé that includes four batting titles, a Triple Crown, and twelve All-Star selections, are infielders Adam Wainwright, Joey Votto, Zack Greinke, Manny Ramirez (once again), Alex Rodriguez, Jon Lester, and Andy Pettitte.
Lester, on the other hand, boasts an incredible postseason record with nine playoff appearances and three world championships. His post-season ERA of 2.51 is the lowest among starters with at least 20 starts and 75 innings pitched. With a .631 winning percentage, he could potentially edge out his career ERA (3.66) and modest win total.
However, not everyone has an easy ride to Cooperstown. Pettitte, who won 19 post-season games for the Yankees, will need significant gains from this year's 48.5% mark in order to surpass the 50% threshold needed for induction. Fellow pitcher Felix Hernandez, a dominant force in his prime but struggling with longevity, sees a potential bounce back in his vote percentage after jumping to 46.1% this year.
The stage is also set for some notable managerial candidates to get the nod from the Eras Committee. Dusty Baker and Bruce Bochy are among those highly regarded by voters, having led teams to world championships during their careers. Lou Piniella's multiple attempts to break through could yield results next year, while Cito Gaston and Davey Johnson's own long histories of success may finally catch up with them.
Beyond the managerial front, several strong infield candidates are vying for a spot in Cooperstown. Jimmy Rollins, Dustin Pedroia, and David Wright join Chase Utley, whose impressive jump from 39.8% to 59.1% this year has bolstered his case.
On the cusp of joining the likes of Cabrera, who is all but certain to win election next year with his impressive résumé that includes four batting titles, a Triple Crown, and twelve All-Star selections, are infielders Adam Wainwright, Joey Votto, Zack Greinke, Manny Ramirez (once again), Alex Rodriguez, Jon Lester, and Andy Pettitte.