Do you think that Roberto Alomar...?

Question

...is a first ballot Hall of Famer? Why or why not?

Answer 1

He is a Hall of Famer for sure. He was the best second baseman on earth until his trade to the Mets. He was great hitter for average and respectable power. He was a fielder like no other. Turned the double play beautifully. He was successful in the clutch and had great postseasons with the Jays and Indians.
The fact that he made a big mistake spitting an umpire will surely deny him a first ballot vote to the HOF. He struggled mightily at the end of his career. Also missing the 3,000 hit plateau will make it more difficult. But he still has enough credentials for Cooperstown. He should apologize to the umpire during the ceremony, that would deserve an ovation.

Answer 2

After what happened to Nellie Fox, I'm just not so sure. I think he is an obvious choice, for sure, but so was Nellie, so is Bert Blyleven, so is Ron Santo.

The writers see them selves as the culture police of the game and Alomar failed to get 3,000 hits (which used to be a 'rule of thumb' for entry into the Hall but now is virtually a necessity) and, yes, there is the spitting. These air heads may keep him out, period.

He should go in. He just might not.

Answer 3

Yes -- well, probably. The writers take that "first ballot" thing much more seriously than I do.

He was the premier second baseman, along with Biggio, for an extended period of time.

The most puzzling question about Alomar is which team logo he'll have on his plaque cap. I'm guessing Toronto.

Answer 4

He'll probably end up making it in, but I think his bad attitude is gonna keep him off the first ballot. He really disappeared quickly at the end of his career. It was like one year he was the best in the bigs, and the next he was hitting .240, 10, 50. I don't think I'll ever forget him spitting on the umpire.

Answer 5

Not first ballot, but possibly along the way.

Answer 6

first ballot no in the future yes

Answer 7

Keep him out of the Hall!