I can't wait until Edgar joins Junior in the HOF. He deserves to be in, for God's sake, the award is named after him. If closers get in, so should DH's
I remember how lethal Griffey was during the 1995 Playoffs against the Yankees and how good that Seattle team was.
I was at a Yankees / Met game in 2000 where Piazza hit a Grand Slam off Clemens. I think that ball never came down, he hit it so hard.
Congratulations to both. Well deserved.
I was at a Yankees / Met game in 2000 where Piazza hit a Grand Slam off Clemens. I think that ball never came down, he hit it so hard.
Congratulations to both. Well deserved.
The Hall of a Fame is a misnomer. Entrance into the Hall does not confer fame. The two most unforgettable players of my lifetime were Rose and Bonds. Nobody outhustled Charlie Hustle. And nobody was more intimidating at the plate than Bonds. The debate over whether they belong in the Hall concerns me not. Ali was a draft dodger. Tyson bit Holyfield's ear. I've got no idea if there's a boxing hall of fame or whether either qualifies. Who cares?
This may have already been voiced by another commenter, but I couldn't resist: it would be fitting if Junior's plaque showed his hat turned around in the way he wore it, symbolizing his youthful exuberance and passion for the game.
Piazza admitted he used Androgens (Steroids) and still got in HOF. Why? Why are baseball writers ignoring admitted steroid user and punishing Clemens and Bonds who are far superior players? As long as deserving players are kept out of HOF, it is not a true HOF.
We in Seattle are waiting for our beloved Edgar Martinez, baseball's greatest Designated Hitter, to be elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame.
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Sports writers, most of which couldn't throw a hardball 60'6," pick the Hall of Fame inductees which is a crime unto itself.
As long as these self-appointed moralizers run the show, Bonds, Clements and, yes, Rose, will always be "also-rans."
As long as these self-appointed moralizers run the show, Bonds, Clements and, yes, Rose, will always be "also-rans."
Dude, get it right. "He was muscle-bound" ... uh, no. To be muscle-bound is to be so muscular that one's flexibility or ability to move is impaired. He was, in fact, muscular. Being muscular was anathema to old-time baseball scouts as they were used to ordinary guys who didn't develop much muscle because they lacked scientific training methods, specialized diets, etc ... and, like Mickey Mantle and so many others, drank and smoked too much.
It is irresponsible to use terms such as "muscle-bound" when the evidence was that he was not, as this feeds the suspicions that PEDs were used.
It is irresponsible to use terms such as "muscle-bound" when the evidence was that he was not, as this feeds the suspicions that PEDs were used.
1
With each passing year I care less and less about who's going into the HOF. When I think of great movies or actors, I don't care if they won an Academy Award. Likewise, I don't evaluate athletes' careers based on whether they're in the HOF, or won an MVP or other award. It's a great museum, and I like going there, but as a fan, the whole who's-in-who's-out thing is becoming irrelevant to me.
I think it is of utmost importance to note where these two started; Griffey a number one draft pick with a legendary father and all the opportunity in the world, and Piazza as a 62nd overall draft pick (lowest ever pick to be inducted into the Hall of Fame) with the odds stacked against him.
Many fail to realize just how difficult it must have been for Piazza to rise to stardom with much less opportunity than Griffey, and many other highly drafted players of their time. Piazza provides a great example of hard work and dedication paying off in the end.
It is every young baseball players dream to play professionally and become inducted into maybe the greatest honor of any professional sport, The Baseball Hall of Fame.
Whether you come from a wealth of opportunity or a hard road with odds against you, success can be found and dreams can be reached.
Congratulations to both. They are certainly well deserving and deserve the right to be remembered as two of the "greatest of all time."
Many fail to realize just how difficult it must have been for Piazza to rise to stardom with much less opportunity than Griffey, and many other highly drafted players of their time. Piazza provides a great example of hard work and dedication paying off in the end.
It is every young baseball players dream to play professionally and become inducted into maybe the greatest honor of any professional sport, The Baseball Hall of Fame.
Whether you come from a wealth of opportunity or a hard road with odds against you, success can be found and dreams can be reached.
Congratulations to both. They are certainly well deserving and deserve the right to be remembered as two of the "greatest of all time."
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Archbishop Moeller High School, Cincinnati, Ohio (enrollment 870 students):
Ken Griffey, Jr. (HOF)
Barry Larkin (HOF)
Gerry Faust (Notre Dame head FB coach- from Moeller head FB coach)
John Boehner - Speaker of the House
........not to shabby
Ken Griffey, Jr. (HOF)
Barry Larkin (HOF)
Gerry Faust (Notre Dame head FB coach- from Moeller head FB coach)
John Boehner - Speaker of the House
........not to shabby
Was there ever a guy who played the game with more beauty and joy than Junior?
2
Junior broke the ballot record. You'd think that would be mentioned.
What about Shoeless Joe Jackson.
In five more years it will be a century since he was banned from Baseball.
One of the greatest hitters of all time !!!
In five more years it will be a century since he was banned from Baseball.
One of the greatest hitters of all time !!!
If you take political correctness too far, sometimes you ignore the obvious. Piazza was drafted as a favor to Lasorda. He takes solace in waiting so long by noting that Berra and DiMaggio did not get in on the first ballot. Surely you noticed that this is a short list of the top paysans di baseball.
Piazza by his own book said he used PED that became illegal. Look at his numbers, he peaked in the late 90s, the steroid era. As a fielding catcher, he was terrible. Why does no one calls him out on his PED usage?
1
As a very young man, I talked with men who saw Ruth, Gehrig, DiMaggio, Williams, and thought how amazing it would have been to see these legends from start to finish. I saw Mays in the last 12 years of his career, Mantle in the last 7 of his. Then, in 1986, I moved to Seattle. I got to see Ken Griffey Jr., from his first AB to his last. I got to see and follow the career arc of one of the game's greatest players. I consider myself incredibly fortunate.
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Kudos to these two wonderful players. Mr. Piazza was chosen by the Los Angeles Dodger in the 62nd round of the amateur draft as a favor to a family friend, then Dodger manager Tommy Lasorda. Piazza has the right to choose his inductee team, but without his .331 batting average with Los Angeles, he would not be in the Hall of Fame.
All you people who want Bonds, Clemons, etc to be in the Hall should be ashamed of yourselves. Is nothing sacred? Indeed we live in an era where anything goes. . .but this is ridiculous. Are there no standards anymore for anything? Give me a break.
And about the comment about Griffey being the best of all time if it weren't for his injuries. NO WAY. The title, and the biggest "What if" in all of sports history belongs to only one person: Mickey Mantle. And his major injuries began in his rookie season! Later in his career some of the writers were incredulous he could even play. . .and in any other context considered him a cripple! He couldn't even get out of the seat of a car without moving his legs out first with his hands! Even so, his strength and speed were unsurpassed. . .to this day. He hit the longest home runs in baseball history and I don't know of anyone who beat his time from home to first. "The saddest words of tongue or pen. The saddest words: "What might have been."
And about the comment about Griffey being the best of all time if it weren't for his injuries. NO WAY. The title, and the biggest "What if" in all of sports history belongs to only one person: Mickey Mantle. And his major injuries began in his rookie season! Later in his career some of the writers were incredulous he could even play. . .and in any other context considered him a cripple! He couldn't even get out of the seat of a car without moving his legs out first with his hands! Even so, his strength and speed were unsurpassed. . .to this day. He hit the longest home runs in baseball history and I don't know of anyone who beat his time from home to first. "The saddest words of tongue or pen. The saddest words: "What might have been."
1
A number of commenters opine that Griffey should have been unanimous. However, Mays, Mantle, and Aaron weren't unanimous either, and got lower percentages of the vote than Griffey. If one sifts through the list of players admitted to the Hall of Fame, one finds many great players who weren't unanimous choices and no one who was. Babe Ruth? Lou Gehrig? Ted Williams? Ruth got only about 95% and Williams a paltry 93%. Who in their right mind would not support those two for the Hall of Fame?
Willie Mays, who many would argue is the greatest all-around ballplayer of all time received a bit less than 95%. Perhaps, sports writes should undergo psychiatric testing before being allowed to vote. Obviously, there are some pretty weird, even crazy, people voting.
Willie Mays, who many would argue is the greatest all-around ballplayer of all time received a bit less than 95%. Perhaps, sports writes should undergo psychiatric testing before being allowed to vote. Obviously, there are some pretty weird, even crazy, people voting.
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To the people who got such joy from watching Junior Griffey play, I think it would be almost as joyful to see his plaque with the cap backwards!
I also hope he does that when he meets the media Thursday, and on the day of his induction.
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To the people who got such joy from watching Junior Griffey play, I think it would be almost as joyful to see his plaque with the cap backwards!
I also hope he does that when he meets the media Thursday, and on the day of his induction.
1
Being a lifelong Dodger fan living in Maine, I took my son to see my team play at the closest venue available then: Montreal. The game was memorable for two reasons. Piazza hit a line drive to left that left the yard faster than any homer I ever saw in person and one of the pigeons inhabiting Olympic Stadium took a crap on my son's head.
He preferred Junior and adorned his wall with a poster titled "Riptide" featuring that sweet swing in Seattle garb.
Thanks, gentlemen, for the memories.
He preferred Junior and adorned his wall with a poster titled "Riptide" featuring that sweet swing in Seattle garb.
Thanks, gentlemen, for the memories.
PETE ROSE----NOW!!!......yours truly, a Phillies fan.
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Ken Griffey is great! Time for people to quit defining others by race. Griffey is a great human being.
Thanks for the memories .. and the hits, Mike. Thinking that you made it to the Hall of Fame before Clemens (if he ever makes it in) makes me smile even brighter. You came out on top, as if there would be any doubt about that.
The one player who should be in the baseball hall of fame by now is Pete Rose. His play epitomized the spirit of baseball. The writers should not await is passing to induct him.
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Don't forget Griffey could have been a Yankee had it not been for Billy Martin yelling at him or at least sending a message when he was really a "kid" that he should be quiet in the clubhouse. Yankees might not have had to wait until the Jeter era to win. Keep in mind, with all of Griffey's greatness, his teams never won a title.
The only reason Griffey didn't get 100% "YES" votes: there are three knee-jerk contrarian, unjustifiably self-important baseball writers in America who, instead of voting based on Griffey's achievements and numbers, wanted to indulge and think, "the 0.7% voting NO? Yep, I'm one of those."
Two great players. It's a shame that baseball has rewarded the cheaters that remain on the HOF ballot. Griffey and Piazza were always drew your attention. It didn't matter if they were beating your team. It's also great to see their reflections in players like Trout and Harper. The Dodger should have stayed in Brooklyn.
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Here is a suggestion for those who feel that Rose or the 'roid boys belong in the HOF. Build a new wing for them: those who performed greatly on the field but otherwise were dirtbags. Then Rose, A-Rod, McGuire, Bonds, Cobb, and the like could be enshrined for their talents, but kept separate from those who played the game for what is is, a thing of beauty.
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That wing would get a bit crowded, after the players who are currently enshrined but who "were otherwise dirtbags" had their plaques relocated. Ty Cobb and Tris Speaker come to mind.
Tickled pink to hear that Piazza got in. The steroid rumors don't seem accurate. He was a pleasure to watch and he seemed to always put out his best effort. Pleasing to also note that Piazza is in and Clemens isn't and may never be. The fact that Griffey didn't get 100% of the votes indicates that someone didn't think he belonged in the HOF? To that genius: McDonald's is looking for help!
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My late father was an original Mets fan, he arrived from Ireland in 1957 and despite the rampant discrimination against the Irish, he worked incredibly hard and loved the NY Mets from day 1. His life was work every day and the Mets on the radio and then on TV whenever possible. When they won the Series in 1969, he came home with turf from Shea, we never forgot how happy he was. He died in 1996, and we kept going to Shea to carry on his legacy as a fan. So we were honored to be there to see Mike Piazza play, and the thrill of that will stay with us for our lifetimes. We will never forget the first game at Shea after 9/11, when we needed hope, Mike was there. We miss so many good things - we miss Dad, we miss Shea, we miss watching Mike play - and we are so happy to see a true gentleman and great player get into the Hall today. Thank you, Mr. Piazza - and many congratulations on this well deserved honor. Know that you make all Mets fans, the ones here and the ones in the Shea in the Sky, very happy today and always. When you go to Cooperstown, we'll follow you there to see your plaque - you will be the reason we go there. That's how much you mean to us.
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Thank you for sharing these wonderful memories. I grew up in Queens and, before leaving NY must have gone by Shea thousands of times on the Flushing IRT and the highway. Your descriptions are very evocative of another time.
Lucky dog--
Nice memories and remarks. I'm also an original Met fan, and Irish (mother born in Ireland) and am happy to finally see a second Met cap in the HOF.
After going without a NL team for 4 years after the Dodgers left, we older fans were relieved. excited, and deeply in love with the new team. And love is always blind. Let's go Mets!
Nice memories and remarks. I'm also an original Met fan, and Irish (mother born in Ireland) and am happy to finally see a second Met cap in the HOF.
After going without a NL team for 4 years after the Dodgers left, we older fans were relieved. excited, and deeply in love with the new team. And love is always blind. Let's go Mets!
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In his last MLB season Puazza returned with the Oakland A's to play the Mets. He hit a home run in his first at-bat. The Shea Stadium crowd rose and gave him a standing ovation as he rounded the bases, concluding with a curtain call and tip of his cap. I'm quite sure it was the only time an opposing player received a standing O in Queens. That's how much the fans loved him. Congrats Mike!
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Joe D and Yogi weren't elected on the first ballot? How can that have been possible?
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Baggie 2017! (I'm from Houston and, therefore, biased and prejudiced.)
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Believe it or not but Griffey wasn't the only one who didn't get a unanimous vote. How about,willie Mays, ted williams, mickey mantle, joe dimaggio, sandy koufax, need i go on? Believe it or not I don't think Babe ruth did either!
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The original class was appointed, not elected
The second paragraph of the article mentions that Griffey got closer to a unanimous vote than anyone ever, a distinction previously held by Tom Seaver. Nobody has ever been a unanimous choice.
I do believe that nobody made it into the Hall of Fame unanimously.
Junior made watching a game in the dreary Kingdome a thing of beauty like no other.
7
Congrats to the newest HOF'ers. Tim Raines, hang in there bro. Your time will come. Saw you play in Denver in the minors, watched you throughout you career, second only to the immortal Rickey as a leadoff man. Think Pudge will follow Piazza next year? Definitely!
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If it's any consolation to Dodgers fans who are upset that Piazza was elected to the Hall of Fame as a NY Mets player, I ALWAYS thought of Piazza as a Dodger, and still do and always will. He did OK after joining the Mets, but he'd never have been elected to the Hall of Fame based on his performance there.
Mike Piazza was a Dodger.
Mike Piazza was a Dodger.
1
Piazza was a Met. If you're still confused, ask Piazza himself.
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Based on what? How many World Series did he play in with the Dodgers? He is a small point in Dodger history, a big figure in Mets history. And BTW who does Piazza himself feel close to? Everyone who knows about him knows his relationship is with the NY fans. How many Dodger fans are actually "upset" about this anyway? But you keep thinking of him as whatever you want.
3
Based on the fact that if it weren't for the Dodgers Piazza would not have been picked in the 62nd round of the draft. And that just because Piazza was an ingrate who believed he should have been given every single dollar and cent he wanted in every contract negotiation does not negate the role the Dodgers played in bringing him up through the system carefully and slowly. Piazza was the classic example of a player with the proper farm system upbringing who then sprang for the big bucks at the first smell of dollars elsewhere.
L.A. (O'Malley) stole the Dodgers from New York, and New York now may have alittle payback if Piazza goes in the Hall as a Met. Mike we loved you. Don't do it. Go in with with Dodger Blue !!
1
Dodger blue is also Mets blue. The Mets colors are a combo of the two former New York teams.
Ken Griffey Jr and Ken Griffey were always a credit to the game. Good for the HOF.
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Piazza said there were “no flawless institutions” --Agreed. So it's time to elect Bonds and Clemens--two of the greatest players of all time. And time for the self-righteous prigswho blabber about the PED thing to look at their own glass houses and the high likelihood that in the past huge numbers of players including some in the Hall used older drugs like ritalin and lots of alcohol dexedrine etc And time for the voters to no longer be just baseball writers (not the smartest nor the least biased group in America, that's for sure) but also other knowledgable professionals like broadcasters, former general managers, etc.
3
I disagree. Bonds, Clemens, McGuire, and eventually A-roid, among others, were obvious cheaters, and their cheating distorted long-time baseball records in disastrous fashion. Taking steroids is not remotely comparable to the "uppers" the players took back in the day to stay awake after long bus and train rides.
If Bonds, Clemens, or any of the others are ever elected to the HOF, they should take the sign down and close the doors forever. The last thing baseball needs after this long, sordid era is a Hall of Shame populated with steroid cheats.
If Bonds, Clemens, or any of the others are ever elected to the HOF, they should take the sign down and close the doors forever. The last thing baseball needs after this long, sordid era is a Hall of Shame populated with steroid cheats.
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#rfj - I'm curious as to how you know that steroids and amphetamines are not comparable. Have you taken them yourself?
Anything illegal that a player takes to get an edge (and believe me, that's what the amphetamines were for) should either 1. disqualify the player from the HOF, or 2. not disqualify them. What will it be?
I have to admit however, that I'm quite pleased Piazza got in but not Clemens, after that disgraceful bat episode...
Anything illegal that a player takes to get an edge (and believe me, that's what the amphetamines were for) should either 1. disqualify the player from the HOF, or 2. not disqualify them. What will it be?
I have to admit however, that I'm quite pleased Piazza got in but not Clemens, after that disgraceful bat episode...
1
If Pete Rose isn't allowed into the HOF, there's no way in hell that Bonds and Clemens belong there. Taking speed (greenies) is no where close to the PED's that Clemens and, especially, Bonds took. Read "Game of Shadows" by Fairanu-Wada and you may change your tune. If you care the slightest about whatever still exists of "the integrity of the game", no way do Bonds and Clemens belong in the HOF.
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Congrats, Kenny Griffey Jr.
So the first DH has been elected to the HOF. Piazza's career defensive WAR stands at 1.0. His offensive WAR is essentially the same as Edgar Martinez, who will be the 2nd DH elected.
WAR SCHMOR, he's in the HOF.
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Yankee fan, are ya?
Who were the three geniuses?
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pete rose and a couple of others should have been included. considering some of the occupants of the baseball hall of fame, effective players who were terrible people like ty cobb, i see no reason to exclude these recent standouts.
"When I think of Kenny Griffey, I think of an athlete who was as polished and graceful as a dancer."
Me too, and I can't think of anyone else who more deserves to be in the Hall of Fame. Griffey's career took a turn for the worse when he went to Cincinnati, but I always respected him for that: returning to his hometown.
By the way, here's something I'll bet few baseball fans know:
In 2001, the Seattle Mariners won 116 games, the most (as I recall) of any major league team since 1938. That was impressive enough, but what was far more impressive is that, on opening day a year earlier, the Mariners had three key players who were NOT on their 2001 roster:
Ken Griffey, Jr.
Alex Rodriguez
Randy Johnson
As any baseball fan will recall, those were three of the very biggest stars in baseball at the time, and the Mariners won more games after they'd left than they'd ever won while they were there.
I hope baseball team owners will keep this in mind when they next have to decide whether some second baseman or right fielder with a lifetime .290 batting average should be paid $15-20 million dollars a year.
Me too, and I can't think of anyone else who more deserves to be in the Hall of Fame. Griffey's career took a turn for the worse when he went to Cincinnati, but I always respected him for that: returning to his hometown.
By the way, here's something I'll bet few baseball fans know:
In 2001, the Seattle Mariners won 116 games, the most (as I recall) of any major league team since 1938. That was impressive enough, but what was far more impressive is that, on opening day a year earlier, the Mariners had three key players who were NOT on their 2001 roster:
Ken Griffey, Jr.
Alex Rodriguez
Randy Johnson
As any baseball fan will recall, those were three of the very biggest stars in baseball at the time, and the Mariners won more games after they'd left than they'd ever won while they were there.
I hope baseball team owners will keep this in mind when they next have to decide whether some second baseman or right fielder with a lifetime .290 batting average should be paid $15-20 million dollars a year.
1
One element of a team sport is the success of the team. Griffey was on two playoff teams while in his first stint with Seattle. The Reds has little success and made not a single post season during his tenure. Has any other hall of fame hit more home runs of less consequence?
having ichiro in 2001 didn't hurt.....
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It's not good karma to wish others ill will but I take joy each year the Bonds and the others in the PED gang are kept out of the Hall of Fame.
I used to be a baseball fan up to the home run derby days.
It didn't take a scientist to realize these guys were doping, it just turned me completely off the game.
What player in the history of the game got better as they aged, yet here's three older players (Sosa, Clemens, Bonds) getting better as they get older?
It just made watching the game or going to games not so fun anymore knowing that most of the best players had been taking PEDs.
I used to be a baseball fan up to the home run derby days.
It didn't take a scientist to realize these guys were doping, it just turned me completely off the game.
What player in the history of the game got better as they aged, yet here's three older players (Sosa, Clemens, Bonds) getting better as they get older?
It just made watching the game or going to games not so fun anymore knowing that most of the best players had been taking PEDs.
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On top of everything else, Griffey had that fabulous, ten thousand watt smile. What's not to like?
Yes, Mike Piazza could hit a baseball a good long way, but come on now, "the complete catcher?" He was sub-mediocre behind the plate, opponents knew it and often played it for an advantage. He may belong in the Hall for his offensive abilities, but comparing the guy to Bench and Fisk (and Berra and others) is a bit silly. Next you'll be trying to convince me Piazza is in the same league with Pudge. Obviously we aren't sipping the same Kool Aid.
Yes, Mike Piazza could hit a baseball a good long way, but come on now, "the complete catcher?" He was sub-mediocre behind the plate, opponents knew it and often played it for an advantage. He may belong in the Hall for his offensive abilities, but comparing the guy to Bench and Fisk (and Berra and others) is a bit silly. Next you'll be trying to convince me Piazza is in the same league with Pudge. Obviously we aren't sipping the same Kool Aid.
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Thrilled for Griffey. Great guy- best player I ever saw.
1
Maybe not quite the no-brainer Griffey is, but big Mike is not far behind. Whether he goes in as Dodger or a Met it is well deserved. One of those rare hitters who could pick a team up and carry it on his back. Congrats to the guy from Philly!
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When I think of Kenny Griffey, I think of an athlete who was as polished and graceful as a dancer.
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so well said!
I 'd like to see a thorough investigation of the sportswriters so that we can vote on them. And the owners who moved in fences and gave outlandish salaries to those who would "play long ball." And don't even get me started about football. The NFC seemingly discovered steroids about a generation before the AFC (thus the years of domination). Wasn't it said that the Washington Redskins had perfected weight room training techniques, making the contests men against boys? Better still, let's have a Hypocrisy Hall of Fame. Congratulations to Ken Griffey, Jr., one of the all time greats.
Anyone rethinking the treatment of Rose, Clemens, and Bonds should be summarily silenced.
Defining deviancy down has no place in baseball.
Defining deviancy down has no place in baseball.
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As long as they all stay out. But if the day comes that they let Bonds or Clemens or any of the juicers in then Rose should be reinstated immediately and inducted as well.
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Completely agree! Why not let Pete Rose in as well if you're going to have the PED gang in there.
Why honor those who robbed the game of dignity and took away from the integrity of the game?
Why honor those who robbed the game of dignity and took away from the integrity of the game?
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@ PointertoVoid: The day they let any of those guys in is the day they should close the doors and shut the place down.
3
Both Bonds and Clemens deserve to be elected to the Hall of Fame. Regardless of anything else, they were among the very greatest players of all time. If people want to be so judgmental, hardly anyone would be in the hall.
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Bonds and Clemens got bigger and stronger and better the older they got. Do you think maybe they were using steroids? Keep 'em out!
2
It seems safe to assert that without the Dodgers, none of us would have ever never heard of a Mike Piazza. Let's hope that's remembered when it's time for him to decide which team he wants to represent in the Hall.
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I'm very pleased about Ken Griffey, Jr.'s success; and for the Griffey family! I have a coupla players in mind whom I wish had gotten a higher percentage of votes; but I'll look kindly at Junior's record-breaking total because it casts a welcome light on his father. Both Griffeys were smooth players, all-around athletes, and fine representatives of the sport.
Mike Piazza's induction is also well-deserved. He was a gutsy player, blessed with physical and mental gifts, and a team leader in two pressure-filled media markets.
I thought Jeff Bagwell was a lock, which would have been great; and as a Tim Raines fan, I wish he had done better.
I was working for one of MLB's many corporate arms when Junior was playing. One day, I was on Griffey watch -- I was supposed to notify the media people if he hit #599. I was amused to watch them scramble. Much better pre-planning was in place by the time I was on Jeter-watch on the day he was in the lineup already having 2997 career hits.
I must say I don't understand why it's so certain that Piazza would be enshrined as a Met. Check out his Batting Average, on-base percentage, slugging average, Player-of-the-Week Awards, Player-of-the-Month Awards, All-Star selections, and high ranks on MVP ballots. All were better in his Dodger years. In his Met years, he became more likely to strike out or ground into a double play. He also had many poor postseason series as a Met. Seems like a good time for a cap with no logo, as is sometimes used.
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I'm very pleased about Ken Griffey, Jr.'s success; and for the Griffey family! I have a coupla players in mind whom I wish had gotten a higher percentage of votes; but I'll look kindly at Junior's record-breaking total because it casts a welcome light on his father. Both Griffeys were smooth players, all-around athletes, and fine representatives of the sport.
Mike Piazza's induction is also well-deserved. He was a gutsy player, blessed with physical and mental gifts, and a team leader in two pressure-filled media markets.
I thought Jeff Bagwell was a lock, which would have been great; and as a Tim Raines fan, I wish he had done better.
I was working for one of MLB's many corporate arms when Junior was playing. One day, I was on Griffey watch -- I was supposed to notify the media people if he hit #599. I was amused to watch them scramble. Much better pre-planning was in place by the time I was on Jeter-watch on the day he was in the lineup already having 2997 career hits.
I must say I don't understand why it's so certain that Piazza would be enshrined as a Met. Check out his Batting Average, on-base percentage, slugging average, Player-of-the-Week Awards, Player-of-the-Month Awards, All-Star selections, and high ranks on MVP ballots. All were better in his Dodger years. In his Met years, he became more likely to strike out or ground into a double play. He also had many poor postseason series as a Met. Seems like a good time for a cap with no logo, as is sometimes used.
1) He took them to the World Series in 2000
2) He led them in 1999 and in 2000, for the Mets only back-to-back postseason appearances
3) He actually helped them WIN
4) A "poor" postseason appearance means that they were in first place or a Wild Card team; the Dodgers weren't even in contention.
5) Smile - he's a NY Met.
2) He led them in 1999 and in 2000, for the Mets only back-to-back postseason appearances
3) He actually helped them WIN
4) A "poor" postseason appearance means that they were in first place or a Wild Card team; the Dodgers weren't even in contention.
5) Smile - he's a NY Met.
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Whoever didn't vote for Griffey should be identified and held up for public ridicule, and never be allowed to participate in the balloting again. Complete idiots.
4
As a yankee fan junior was a nightmare. I remember when he stole a homerun from way over the fence and came running in with a giant smile on his 19yr old face. You just had to love the guy. One in a lifetime type of talent. Every aspect of the game. Astroturf ruined his legs and cost him the homerun crown, but no matter. A truly talented man.
11
Go Mike! Well deserved. It was a great week in 1998. A portion of the collection is now on display in Cooperstown at the Baseball Hall of Fame.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/01/sports/baseball/card-collectors-hold-o...
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/01/sports/baseball/card-collectors-hold-o...
4
Sorry to see my hero Tom Seaver get passed in the percent title but none more deserving than Griffey. How could Griffey not be unanimous? Reminds me of 1979 when my father wrote to several New York newspapers wanting answers on who left Willie Mays off their ballot. It's interesting that a Met hero was moved out of the top spot on the same day. A new Met was put in.
6
A bunch of crotchity old men still refuse to let Gil Hodges into this meaningless Hall Of Fame. It would be nice if they did this while Joan is still with us, but they see things differently than all the old Brookln Dodger fans, and anyone else who saw Gil play.
I will NEVER visit this place as long as he is refused entry.
I will NEVER visit this place as long as he is refused entry.
1
I've always felt bad for Griffey Jr. suffering so many injuries in his prime, he would have been in the discussion for best outfielder ever if he stayed healthy across those years. A nearly unanimous election to the hall of fame isn't bad though...congrats to Junior Griffey on that!
2
I'm curious as to why the NY Times doesn't allow its baseball writers to vote. Is that true of any other papers? I suppose that theoretically there could be a local-team booster effect, but that would be true anywhere, and the Times writers should be trusted to be professionals.
3
I can't believe that Ken Griffey Jr. didn't get 100% of the vote. Who didn't give him a first place vote?
3
I agree. Those 3 ought to have their credentials inspected
Remember, Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, CY Young, Ted Williams, Stan Musial, Willie Mays and Hank Aaron never got 100% of the vote either. Sports writers? A weird bunch.
2
The Hall of Fame will continue to be a joke until they put Clemens and Bonds in.
Holier than thou baseball writers are pathetic.
LH, not BFH
Holier than thou baseball writers are pathetic.
LH, not BFH
1
You don't love baseball if you say that Bonds and Clemens deserve in.
2
Griffey benefited by hitting in front of Edgar Martinez, who pitchers feared more . Edgar had a career .312 lifetime batting average and a .418 on base percentage. And he was a clutch as they come. It's past time for Edgar to be elected as well.
7
Congratulations to Mike and Ken, two class acts.
I love that Piazza was only selected in the 62nd and last round of the draft, and even then, only as a favor to family friend Tommy Lasorda. Either lots of scouts were seriously out to lunch that year, or he's my new poster boy for over-achieving, and never ever paying attention to other people's opinions of your limitations.
I love that Piazza was only selected in the 62nd and last round of the draft, and even then, only as a favor to family friend Tommy Lasorda. Either lots of scouts were seriously out to lunch that year, or he's my new poster boy for over-achieving, and never ever paying attention to other people's opinions of your limitations.
15
Congratulations to Mr. Griffey. He earned it. I remember seeing him in 1989 or 1990 in the Kingdome. A friend had season tickets, front row center field which, in the Kingdome in those days could be lonely and dark, but the seats were right on top of the foam padded walls affording a great look at Griffey if the ball came that way. What I remember was thinking how young and skinny he looked and I wondered if he was homesick being so young and so far away from home in the Northwest which was then pretty much a backwater. Then he would make some spectacular play or throw and you could sense the joy and fun in him. Thanks, Kid.
4
If any of the three writers who left Jr. off of their ballot voted for another player (ever), with lesser numbers compared to Jr., in the first year of their eligibility, those writers should have their votes permanently revoked. It's a double standard. To not vote for him simply because they feel nobody should receive a unanimous vote, they have placed their opinions above the performance of the player. Disgraceful...
10
there was a player named henry aaron who was left off by nine voters. another named willie mays had, I think, 20 not name him. cobb and ruth were fair ballplayers too and who the hell didn't vote for them?
3
I am an original Mets' fan, from day one in 1962. It sickens me to see Piazza enter the hall in a Mets' cap. He was a terrible catcher, simply terrible. This is a sad day indeed. Home runs alone shouldn't get anyone into the hall. If they can't field their position (read no DH either in my opinion) then they don't belong. Piazza could not field, could not throw out a base stealer. Just a terrible fielding catcher.
For shame.
Congratulations, to Ken Griffey Jr. A class act and a deserving Hall member!
For shame.
Congratulations, to Ken Griffey Jr. A class act and a deserving Hall member!
5
Of course, none of that is true. Piazza was terrible at throwing out runners, but otherwise he was a very good catcher. He excelled at calling a game and stopping pitches and was at least average at fielding batted balls.
I look forward to reading your post that poor fielding should have kept Ted Williams out, too.
I look forward to reading your post that poor fielding should have kept Ted Williams out, too.
12
As Ben Linbergh at 538 notes, you are entirely wrong. There are a number of important aspects to catching other than throwing out runners, and Piazza was quite good at them.
http://fivethirtyeight.com/features/mike-piazza-was-more-than-a-big-bat/
http://fivethirtyeight.com/features/mike-piazza-was-more-than-a-big-bat/
4
Sheesh, a little strong, don't you think? Piazza was the greatest offensive catcher of all time, for Pete's sake, and one of the greatest offensive forces of his generation. If he wasn't the greatest defensive catcher in the world, it hardly detracts from his worthiness for the HOF.
He will be just our second HOF-er, assuming he goes in as a Met. As a longtime Mets fan, you should rejoice at rare moments like this. When do suppose our third HOF-er will be inducted? Likely not in your lifetime, nor in mine.
He will be just our second HOF-er, assuming he goes in as a Met. As a longtime Mets fan, you should rejoice at rare moments like this. When do suppose our third HOF-er will be inducted? Likely not in your lifetime, nor in mine.
3
If any player of recent vintage deserved to be a unanimous choice, it was Ken Griffey Jr. A fantastic player, who by all appearances, achieved amazingly lofty numbers without resort to steroids in an era of rampant use. In Piazza, a terrible defensive catcher, drafted as a favor to his godfather, who went on to produce gaudy offensive numbers, I cannot say the same with any confidence.
7
.
I'll agree with everything JEG said about "Junior" Griffey, with one exception:
The recent players most deserving of breaking Tom Seaver's vote-percentage record were Greg Maddux (possibly the most talented baseball player of the divisional era) and Mariano Rivera (worth every penny as a closer, overlooked for a Cy Young Award, and -- according to teammates -- the most naturally-talented center fielder on the roster, at least during outfield practice).
Randy Johnson, who felt just shy of Seaver in balloting, was Seaver's equal as well on the mound (but not at the plate!). Finally, Nolan Ryan also deserved to be on a coupla more ballots. A perfect player? By no means. Someone who wore out his welcome? Perhaps.
But if you've ever seen a no-hitter from first pitch to last, Ryan's record of 7 career no-nos looms very large. I was at Max Scherzer's October no-hitter (only one baserunner -- a weak grounder to third that the fielder threw offline), which was equivalent to a perfect game; and I watched a perfect game from beginning to end. Seven no-hitters is no fluke: It's an all-time accomplishment.
I'll agree with everything JEG said about "Junior" Griffey, with one exception:
The recent players most deserving of breaking Tom Seaver's vote-percentage record were Greg Maddux (possibly the most talented baseball player of the divisional era) and Mariano Rivera (worth every penny as a closer, overlooked for a Cy Young Award, and -- according to teammates -- the most naturally-talented center fielder on the roster, at least during outfield practice).
Randy Johnson, who felt just shy of Seaver in balloting, was Seaver's equal as well on the mound (but not at the plate!). Finally, Nolan Ryan also deserved to be on a coupla more ballots. A perfect player? By no means. Someone who wore out his welcome? Perhaps.
But if you've ever seen a no-hitter from first pitch to last, Ryan's record of 7 career no-nos looms very large. I was at Max Scherzer's October no-hitter (only one baserunner -- a weak grounder to third that the fielder threw offline), which was equivalent to a perfect game; and I watched a perfect game from beginning to end. Seven no-hitters is no fluke: It's an all-time accomplishment.
3
Fitting end to a great year for the Metropolitans. Congratulations to Mike Piazza, and wonderful and fitting news for Kenny Griffey Jr., who is a 100% class act. Baseball does the right thing.
9
Funny how times have changed. During some of Griffey's greatest years there was controversy over his lack of respect for the game. It was silly stuff like clowning around or wearing his hat backwards but it's just funny to see behavior that was once disrespectful, now considered "classy."
In any case, he deserves to be in the Hall. The first half of his career rivals just about anyone and was enough to eclipse the Mattingly effect of a pedestrian second half.
Piazza should be there. But so should McGwire, Clemens and Bonds. The writers are coming around but slowly and anyone wants to put Bagwell on a plaque but bury Bonds just wasn't watching baseball.
In any case, he deserves to be in the Hall. The first half of his career rivals just about anyone and was enough to eclipse the Mattingly effect of a pedestrian second half.
Piazza should be there. But so should McGwire, Clemens and Bonds. The writers are coming around but slowly and anyone wants to put Bagwell on a plaque but bury Bonds just wasn't watching baseball.
1
Bonds, McGwire and Clemens brought the dark shadows of disgrace and greed to the game. Keep them out, forever, or disgrace the real athletes who do belong in the Hall.
1
.
I was told by a fellow Commenter on another blog that the team's name has always been "Mets" and never "Metropolitans".
Because so many people use "Metropolitans" affectionately, I was surprised. I thought perhaps the corporate name might have "Metropolitan" in it. I probably spent an hour looking it up: No evidence of "Metropolitan" in the official name.
In any event, it may be a great year for the Trolley Dodgers instead.
I was told by a fellow Commenter on another blog that the team's name has always been "Mets" and never "Metropolitans".
Because so many people use "Metropolitans" affectionately, I was surprised. I thought perhaps the corporate name might have "Metropolitan" in it. I probably spent an hour looking it up: No evidence of "Metropolitan" in the official name.
In any event, it may be a great year for the Trolley Dodgers instead.
Remember in my apartment in Yonkers after 9/11 watching that ball fly over the wall after Mike crushed it. For a moment in life my wife and I looked at each other and w/o saying a word we both knew it was going to be alright.
People forget that the Mets with Piazza, Valrntine, Fonzi ,et al took point for relief efforts while NY's other team sat in limbo for weeks.
Wonder if that ball ever landed?
Thank you Mike Piazza and congratulations on a well earned honor into baseball's most elite club.
People forget that the Mets with Piazza, Valrntine, Fonzi ,et al took point for relief efforts while NY's other team sat in limbo for weeks.
Wonder if that ball ever landed?
Thank you Mike Piazza and congratulations on a well earned honor into baseball's most elite club.
23
Yeah, it landed. Shortly thereafter, the Yankees won the Series.
You mean it landed eight years later. To be fair, as a Met fan, I was rooting for the Yankees to win in 2001, and was crushed when they lost.
I remember a point in the top of the 9th when the cameras showed Mariano in the dugout, towel over his head, and something in my mind said "He's nervous, he's going to blow the lead." He had a weird look on his face, and then history came through.
Still - I was at the 9/21 game, and I remember seeing Mike revive a broken city. That Met team was magic, and I'm glad I was there.
I remember a point in the top of the 9th when the cameras showed Mariano in the dugout, towel over his head, and something in my mind said "He's nervous, he's going to blow the lead." He had a weird look on his face, and then history came through.
Still - I was at the 9/21 game, and I remember seeing Mike revive a broken city. That Met team was magic, and I'm glad I was there.
New York's "other" team did just fine without Piazza. I can hardly wait until Mo and Derek's time comes. Mets will never catch up with New York's "other" team, so enjoy it while you can
Two great players. Fun to watch.
But who didn't think Seaver or Griffey deserved to get their vote????? Really???
Sad to see Clemens and Bonds actually increase support. Like McGwire and Sosa, juicers, cheaters, and nasty people. It's not just a numbers game.....
But who didn't think Seaver or Griffey deserved to get their vote????? Really???
Sad to see Clemens and Bonds actually increase support. Like McGwire and Sosa, juicers, cheaters, and nasty people. It's not just a numbers game.....
6
Mike Piazza a "complete" catcher??? The guy was one of the worst defensive catchers of his time. He could hit - that's all.
5
But man, could he hit.
2
He also called a great game or two. Could he throw? No? SO WHAT? He carried that team offensively for the duration of his tenure. And he was clutch.
3
McGuire's candidacy was crippled by his admission of steroid use. Clemens and Bonds are crippled by their denials. Either way, steroids cripple.
That's your lesson, kids.
That's your lesson, kids.
10
I once saw Ken Griffey Jr. in a Cincinatti PF Changs, and he was the nicest man. So happy for him, this is truly deserved (because he's an excellent ball player, not because he was so nice in PF Changs. although...)
7
Yes, yes, and yes.
Junior and Piazza were great players and terrific ambassadors for the sport. Very happy for both. They each deserve the honor.
Mazal tov!
Junior and Piazza were great players and terrific ambassadors for the sport. Very happy for both. They each deserve the honor.
Mazal tov!
8
Two great additions to baseball's Valhalla. Ken Griffey, the sweet-swinging lefty with all the tools and Mike Piazza, baseball's most complete catcher since Johnny Bench and Carlton Fisk. I suppose everyone remembers the headhunting fastball that Roger Clemens threw at Piazza in the World Series in '00. If Piazza hadn't put up his bat in time he might have been seriously injured, or worse. So, it's fitting that Philly Mike goes into The Hall before Clemens--if he gets in at all. Sorry that Jeff Bagwell and Curt "bloody sock" Schilling were denied. Not sorry Barry Bonds got shut out and that's a shame. He had wonderful natural gifts and didn't need to cheat. What a contrast between himself and Junior.
9
Piazza may have been the best hitting catcher but he was far from "complete." His defense was awful. Not just bad. Awful.
Just two quick corrections: (1) Clemens beaned Piazza in the head in the regular season, NOT the WS, after Mike had hit about 3 HRs off him in the last couple of meetings. Mikes bat never got near the ball as the ball hit Piazza directly on the helmet (I know because I can still remember Mike lying on the ground for quite a while after that happened). (2) In the 2000 WS, after swinging at a Clemens pitch, Mikes bat split in two and part of it rolled out towards Clemons, who picked it up and threw it in Mike's direction as he was half way down the 1st base line by then. Maybe that was adrenaline but maybe it was road rage? Who knows?
But CONGRATULATIONS to Mike Piazza and Ken Griffey for their induction into the MLB HOF. Well deserved for both and overdue for Piazza.
Bonds, Clemens, McGwire, Sosa, Palmiero and ARoid NEVER deserve entry into the HOF. NEVER! They are all juicers and cheaters.
PS Barry Bonds is NOT the all time HR leader. He cheated and would have hit about 200 less HR if clean.
But CONGRATULATIONS to Mike Piazza and Ken Griffey for their induction into the MLB HOF. Well deserved for both and overdue for Piazza.
Bonds, Clemens, McGwire, Sosa, Palmiero and ARoid NEVER deserve entry into the HOF. NEVER! They are all juicers and cheaters.
PS Barry Bonds is NOT the all time HR leader. He cheated and would have hit about 200 less HR if clean.
1
For some reason, unknown to me, a pretty left-handed swing is prettier than a pretty right handed swing. And Junior had the prettiest of all - with apologies to Robby Cano and Darryl Stawberry.
Congratulations. And to Mr. Piazza as well.
Congratulations. And to Mr. Piazza as well.
14
Still nothing for Edgar Martinez. Baseball's greatest designated hitter spurned again because some of the writers don't believe the position he played should ever have been established.
21
Well, that prejudice certainly won't apply to David Ortiz when he's eligible. It helps when a DH is the driving force behind a team's championship run--more than once.
10
Wrong. He doesn't belong because he only played half the game and will always be unable to answer the question of what his offensive numbers would have been had he had to play defense. Same for David Ortiz and any other full-time DH.
4
Paul Molitor is in despite mostly having been a designated hitter for the Brewers.
1
Ken Griffey Jr. deserves it. The real deal and a chip off the old block. Two of the classiest ballplayers to ever put on a uniform.
A real "good news" story.
Thank you
A real "good news" story.
Thank you
25
Who voted against Griffey? What was that person thinking?
43
Who voted against Seaver in '92?!
7
Exactly,who are these people? I'm more than curious as to their rational.
4
They should not be allowed to vote again for sure!
5
Griffey should have been unanimous..... Congratulations to a star player who was always a joy to watch, both on and off field.
20
Deserving all the way along. Well done, Griffey and Piazza together.
7
I remember seeing Junior play the Sox at Fenway, and thinking, "I am watching one of the greats play baseball today".
I recall driving to Shea to see the Sox play the Mets in 1998 (?), on a day the team decided, inexplicably and wonderfully, to honor Ted Williams. Mike P. hit a bomb off Heathcliff Slocumb that's still traveling through the atmosphere of Flushing, New York.
Speaking of Ted, some earlier commenters expressed disbelief he was left off a few ballots. You have to remember he had a particularly testy relationship with the press. Word is that some *Boston* writers left him off the ballot.