BREAKING: The new Baseball Hall of Fame ballot has just been released, featuring 12 newcomers including stars like Cole Hamels, Ryan Braun, and Matt Kemp. The announcement was made on Monday, creating a buzz among fans eager to see who will get the nod for induction in 2026.
Among the 15 holdover candidates, Carlos Beltrán leads after receiving 277 votes—or 70.3%—in the 2025 voting, falling just 19 votes short of induction. His journey has been contentious; he was implicated in the Astros’ sign-stealing scandal, leading to his dismissal as Mets manager shortly after the scandal broke in 2020.
Joining the ballot for the first time are notable names such as Howie Kendrick, Daniel Murphy, and Rick Porcello, alongside veterans like Shin-Soo Choo and Edwin Encarnación.
This year’s ballot is particularly significant as it reflects both talent and controversy. Beltrán, a nine-time All-Star and former World Series champion, hit .279 with 435 homers and 1,587 RBIs over his illustrious career. His previous support increased from 46.5% in 2023 to 57.1% last year, showcasing a growing recognition despite the shadows of the scandal.
Other holdover candidates include Alex Rodriguez (37.1%), Manny Ramirez (34.3%), and Andruw Jones (66.2%). A player can remain on the ballot for up to 10 years; thus, the stakes are high for these athletes as they vie for baseball’s highest honor.
Voting will officially close on December 31, with results to be announced on January 20. Inductees will be honored on July 26, alongside any players selected by the Hall’s contemporary baseball era committee.
Hamels, a four-time All-Star known for his incredible performance in the 2008 World Series, finished his career with a record of 163-122 and a 3.43 ERA. Braun, the 2011 MVP, tallied 352 homers and 1,154 RBIs during his time with the Milwaukee Brewers, despite facing suspensions related to drug violations.
Kemp, a three-time All-Star, accumulated 287 homers and 1,031 RBIs throughout his career, leaving a lasting impact on the game.
As the voting deadline approaches, fans and analysts alike are abuzz with speculation about who will secure a spot in Cooperstown. This year’s ballot not only showcases new talent but also highlights the ongoing debate over legacy and redemption in the world of baseball.
Stay tuned for updates as the Hall of Fame voting unfolds! This is a developing story that promises to ignite passion and debate among baseball enthusiasts everywhere.
