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MLB Rookie Controversy and Paul Skenes' Stellar Season

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The Baseball Hall of Fame ballot for first-time eligible players is here, featuring an impressive mix of superstars, fan favorites, and unforgettable contributors to the game. These 14 players have carved out remarkable careers, and now their achievements have earned them a spot on the ballot. From CC Sabathia and Ichiro Suzuki to utility greats like Ben Zobrist and the reliable Brian McCann, this list showcases diverse talents across generations of baseball. Here's a closer look at each player’s career highlights and their Hall of Fame case.

Baseball Hall of Fame 1st Timers Club

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The towering left-hander and 2007 AL Cy Young winner, CC Sabathia, is a first-ballot favorite. Over a 19-year career, Sabathia amassed 3,093 strikeouts and 251 wins, becoming a key piece of the Yankees’ 2009 World Series victory. Known for his durability and fiery competitiveness, his case for Cooperstown is as strong as his fastball once was.

CC Sabathia (62.3 WAR)

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Few players revolutionized the game like Ichiro Suzuki, the MLB’s all-time hits leader (combined Japan and MLB) with 4,367 hits. In his 19 seasons, Ichiro won 10 Gold Gloves, two batting titles, and the 2001 AL MVP. His defensive prowess, electrifying speed, and historic hitting make him a surefire Hall of Famer.

Ichiro Suzuki (60.0 WAR)

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A four-time All-Star and two-time Gold Glove winner, Ian Kinsler brought a blend of power and speed to the middle infield. With 257 career home runs and 243 stolen bases, Kinsler was a pivotal contributor to his teams’ success and a reliable presence on both sides of the ball.
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Ian Kinsler (54.1 WAR)

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The scrappy and dynamic Dustin Pedroia was the heart and soul of the Red Sox during their late-2000s dominance. A three-time World Series champion, 2008 AL MVP, and four-time Gold Glove winner, Pedroia’s leadership and grit defined his career and earned him a place in Boston sports lore.

Dustin Pedroia (51.9 WAR)

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Known as "King Félix," Félix Hernández was one of baseball's most dominant pitchers in his prime. A six-time All-Star and 2010 AL Cy Young winner, Hernández’s perfect game and 2,524 career strikeouts are testaments to his brilliance on the mound.
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Félix Hernández (49.7 WAR)

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Beloved for his charisma and leadership, Curtis Granderson was a power-speed threat with 344 career home runs and 153 stolen bases. A three-time All-Star, Granderson was also known for his philanthropic efforts off the field, making him a role model both on and off the diamond.

Curtis Granderson (47.2 WAR)

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For a time, Troy Tulowitzki was the premier shortstop in the game. With five All-Star appearances and two Gold Gloves, Tulo dazzled with his elite defense and power at the plate, finishing his career with 225 home runs despite injury setbacks.

Troy Tulowitzki (44.5 WAR)

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The ultimate utility player, Ben Zobrist played nearly every position on the field during his career. A two-time World Series champion and 2016 World Series MVP, Zobrist’s versatility and clutch performances made him invaluable to his teams.

Ben Zobrist (44.5 WAR)

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A four-time All-Star and defensive stalwart, Russell Martin was one of the best catchers of his generation. Known for his game-calling and leadership, Martin also contributed offensively with 191 career home runs and a knack for delivering in high-pressure situations.

Russell Martin (38.9 WAR)

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A three-time All-Star and former batting champion, Hanley Ramirez combined power and speed with a career total of 271 home runs and 281 stolen bases. Though inconsistent at times, Ramirez’s peak seasons were among the best in baseball.

Hanley Ramirez (38.0 WAR)

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A five-time All-Star and four-time Gold Glove winner, Adam Jones was the face of the Baltimore Orioles for over a decade. With 282 career home runs, Jones was known for his consistency and leadership during the Orioles’ resurgence.

Adam Jones (32.6 WAR)

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One of the most reliable catchers of his era, Brian McCann was a seven-time All-Star with 282 career home runs. A World Series champion with the Astros in 2017, McCann’s steady bat and defense made him a cornerstone player.

Brian McCann (32.0 WAR)

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Carlos González, known as "CarGo," brought flair and excitement to the Rockies. A three-time All-Star and three-time Gold Glove winner, González had a memorable 2010 season where he won the NL batting title and smashed 34 home runs.

Carlos González (24.4 WAR)

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One of the most colorful personalities in baseball, Fernando Rodney pitched for an incredible 17 seasons, amassing 326 career saves. A three-time All-Star and a 2019 World Series champion, Rodney’s signature arrow celebration remains unforgettable.

Fernando Rodney (7.4 WAR)

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Explore the 14 first-time eligible players on the Baseball Hall of Fame ballot, including Hanley Ramirez, Ichiro Suzuki, Curtis Granderson and CC Sabathia.

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