As is customary, I am going to complete my hall of fame ballot before it is released today. Like many, I am predicting that only Barry Larkin makes it in.

I feel much more comfortable with my decisions on the ballot these years as with a very few exceptions (most notably my first and second choice), I remember rookie years of many on the ballot. Without further ado, here is my ballot. (I am “mailing it in” a bit as I ran out of time before remembering to do it)

Jack Morris

There wasn’t a better pitcher in the AL than Morris in the mid-80’s (I realize it’s an arbitrary 10 years, but it’s still 10). Add game 7 of the 1991 WS and all his rings and you have everything you’d want in a big game pitcher (save for his Jays playoffs). The argument about his 3.90 ERA is also a bit mind-boggling. is 3.90 that bad? Take away a couple of the brutal years after 1991 and I am sure his ERA is more in line with some of the big names. I think being a “dick” to the media is what’s holding him back. I just don’t see how this isn’t a hall of famer. Now that I got Blyleven in, I think this is my next project.

Tim Raines

Here is another guy and another project that I don’t understand why he isn’t in the Hall. He made an all-star team every year from 1981 through 1987. He was the first expo I remember watching. 5th all-time in steals, 50th in runs scored, 35th in walks, 4th in LF assists. What more could you ask from your lead-off hitter? All that plus he always slid head first into second so he wouldn’t crack the vile of cocaine in his back pocket. Amazing.

Jeff Bagwell

I looked back at his career stats and am changing my mind on him. Maybe I read too much, but his stats (homers, avg and steals) surely qualify him amongst the greats. Add to that he did it with one team, and I think you can find a place for him in the Hall. I don’t think he is a slam-dunk, but would not be offended by his addition.

Mark McGwire

I don’t care about the steroids.

Notable Omissions:

Barry Larkin/Alan Trammell

I realize Barry is going to make it in. I firmly believe it is a function of a very weak ballot and when the ballot is loaded the next three years, he would be in a holding pattern (although steroids might hold back everyone). I think Larkin was a nice player, but to me, he doesn’t scream hall of fame. Maybe I am jaded by a shortstop position that has since developed into a power position, but I never remember feeling when I watched larkin, that he was one of the all time greats. I even remember when he won the MVP saying “really?”. I also don’t see much difference between him and Trammell. If one makes it, both should make it.

Rafael Palmeiro

For the purpose of this vote, I care about the steroids. I am not putting him on my ballot.