Active MLB Players and Their Hall of Fame Prospects in 2023
July marks a monumental time for Adrián Beltré, Joe Mauer, Todd Helton, and Jim Leyland with their induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame. As we celebrate these legends, it’s also a good time to ponder which current players might join them in Cooperstown. Last year’s list sparked many conversations, and this year’s reflections offer fresh insights. Here’s a tiered overview of potential Hall of Famers based on their Wins Above Replacement (WAR) from Baseball Reference.
Players Firmly on the Path to the Hall
Mike Trout, Justin Verlander, Max Scherzer, and now Freddie Freeman headline the "In Right Now" category. Trout, despite injuries, has amassed 86.2 WAR, surpassing greats like Chipper Jones. Verlander and Scherzer, each with three Cy Young Awards, are sure bets. Freeman’s career achievements, including 2,200 hits and 330 homers, cement his status.
Close but Not Quite There
Mookie Betts, Paul Goldschmidt, Bryce Harper, Nolan Arenado, and Manny Machado sit in the "Red Zone." Betts and Harper share MVP awards and stellar stats but lack the career totals. Goldschmidt’s upcoming milestones could soon push him up. Arenado and Machado’s defensive accolades and hitting prowess keep them on the brink.
Emerging Talents Poised for Greatness
Aaron Judge, Shohei Ohtani, and Jose Altuve fall under "Across the 50." Judge’s power and MVP potential are undeniable. Ohtani’s dual-threat dominance is unparalleled, needing only time to build stats. Altuve’s career batting average and potential membership in the exclusive 3,000-Hit, 300-Homer, 300-Steal Club make his case intriguing, despite the Astros’ controversy.
Examining these tiers reveals a dynamic landscape of active stars who could one day see their plaques in Cooperstown, pending career longevity and continued performance.
