Carlos Beltrán is still on the outside looking in as he falls short of the Hall of Fame in his third year of eligibility. He received 70.3% of the votes from the Baseball Writers’ Association of America, just missing the 75% needed for induction. This shows improvement from previous years (46.1% in 2023 and 57.1% last year), and he remains eligible for seven more ballots. Despite his exemplary career, his association with the 2017 Astros’ sign-stealing scandal has impacted voter support.
By the Numbers
- 70.3% of votes received by Beltrán, falling short of the 75% needed for induction.
- Second-most Wins Above Replacement (70.1) among this year’s ballot players.
- 435 career home runs, only behind Willie Mays, Ken Griffey Jr., Mickey Mantle, and Andre Dawson among Hall of Fame center fielders.
Yes, But
Voter sentiment towards Beltrán remains complex; while his on-field achievements are significant, his involvement in the Astros’ scandal has led to a divided opinion among Hall of Fame voters, similar to sentiment faced by other controversial figures.
State of Play
- Beltrán has improved his vote percentage each year since eligibility.
- He is currently serving in an advisory role with the Mets, increasing his visibility in the organization.
What’s Next
If Beltrán maintains currently improving support, he stands a good chance of being inducted in the next few years, particularly if voter attitudes toward his scandal involvement soften.
Bottom Line
Beltrán’s impressive career stats make a strong Hall of Fame case, but how his past ties to the Astros’ scandal are perceived will determine his long-term chances for induction.
