3. Francisco Rodriguez
You may think that K-Rod is a stretch, but his stats speak for his entrance into the Hall. K-Rod joined the Tigers in 2016 and had a great season racking up 44 saves, 52 strikeouts, and a 3.24 ERA. He has bounced around the league during his 15-year career. But his career stats are pretty appealing.
Photo Credit: Jumpy News/Flickr
In 15 years Rodriguez has six All-Star appearances (2004, 2007-2009, 2014-2015) and two Rolaids Relief Awards (2006 & 2008). For his career, K-Rod has 950.2 innings pitched, a 2.73 ERA, and 1,119 strikeouts. Currently, he is fourth on the all-time list in career saves. With a good year this year he could move into third.
While there is much debate about closers in the Hall of Fame, Trevor Hoffman falling just short in 2017, K-Rod is definitely worth a look. Is he a first ballot guy?No. But could he eventually get in, it’s definitely worth some consideration.
4. Ian Kinsler
Ian Kinsler has been with the Tigers now for three years. And in that time he has ingratiated himself to the city and fanbase. But throughout his career, even with the Texas Rangers, he’s been a steady producer at the top of each lineup. He is a five-tool player, though later in his career, still brings a spark to the top of the Tigers lineup.
Photo Credit: Keith Allison/FlickrHe’s a four-time All-Star (2008, 2010, 2012, & 2014), the 2014 Wilson Defensive Player of the Year, and a 2016 Gold Glove winner. He has a career fielding percentage of .981, and in 2014 ranked first in Defensive wins above replacement.
Offensively, Kinsler is a career .277 hitter, with an OBP of .344, and a slugging percentage of .451. He has 212 home runs, 787 RBIs, 211 steals, and 1,696 hits in his career.
Again, most likely not a first ballot guy; but when considering players worthy of a Hall of Fame plaque, Kinsler should be on that list.
What say you Nation, do you agree? Do you disagree? Let us know!
