Hall Of Fame Qualifications
Baseball Is Not Perfect
The recent decision by the Commissioner of Baseball, Robert Manfred, will be the subject of debate for years to come. It may be helpful to review the stated rules of eligibility for Hall of Fame membership that have been adhered to since its opening induction of players in 1936.
To be eligible for the National Baseball Hall of Fame, a candidate must meet the following requirements:
Played at least 10 seasons in the MLB.
Active MLB player within the last 15 years.
Retired from baseball for a minimum of five full seasons.
Inductees are selected by careful examination of their qualifications, including their playing record, CHARACTER and INTEGRITY.Each inductee must receive 75 percent of the vote to be a successful candidate.
Voting — Voting shall be based upon the player’s record, playing ability, INTEGRITY, CHARACTER, SPORTSMANSHIP and contributions to team(s) on which the player played.
The controversy centers around HOF Rule 21, written to: (1) protect the game from individuals who pose a risk to the integrity of the sport by prohibiting the participation of such individuals; and (2) create a deterrent effect that reduces the likelihood of future violations by others.
Manfred defends the decision by stating that a deceased person no longer poses such a risk.
As our National Pastime, baseball reflects the culture of our country.
Rose collides with Ray Fosse in 1970 All Star game.
Manfred's quote: "Obviously, a person no longer with us cannot represent a threat to the integrity of the game." Obviously, that statement is not true. As long as stories and memories exist, those no longer with us will continue to influence us, in good ways and bad. I wonder why he can't just be honest and say, "You know what? Time heals all wounds, and grudges. What Pete and others did was awful, and we'll continue to punish anyone who does the same. But over the long view, I realize these people did more good than bad for baseball and deserve to be in the HOF." Then, in Cooperstown, tell the whole story, not just the good parts. Wouldn't that help uphold the integrity of the game?