Tim Raines (.294/.385/.425, 1,330 BB, 808 SB)
In a career that spanned twenty-three years, Tim Raines was hands down the second best leadoff hitter in MLB history. The problem he has, however, is that he played at the same time the best leadoff hitter in MLB history played, the amazing Ricky Henderson, so he got overlooked.
The case for induction: In the four seasons between 1981-1984, Raines led the NL in stolen bases each year. He averaged 79 stolen bases a year. In 1985 and 1986, he stole exactly 70 bases each season. From 1981-1992, he had an incredible success rate of 85.1 percent of the total bases he tried to steal (723 of 850).
During his offensive peak, Raines hit .310/.396/.448 with an average of 172 hits, 31 doubles, 9 triples, 9 home runs, 72 stolen bases, 79 walks and 61 strikeouts. He was an All Star in all seven seasons, and received MVP votes in six of the seven seasons. In that period, he had a 38.4 WAR, fifth in the Major Leagues. The four ahead of him, Henderson, Mike Schmidt, Wade Boggs and Gary Carter are all in the Hall of Fame.
All time, Raines ranks 5th in stolen bases, 37th in walks, 47th in times on base, 53rd in runs scored, 71st in WAR and 77th in hits.
The case against induction: Sportswriters’ silliness in having magical numbers to hit to qualify for the Hall of Fame. Critics say he did not have a .300 average. They say he did not have 3,000 hits.
Let’s take a look at that whole batting .300 and having 3,000 hits. Let’s compare Raines to Tony Gwynn.
Gwynn had a .338 average and 3,141 hits, while Raines had a .294 average and 2,605 hits. Gwynn had 790 walks to Raines’ 1,330. Overall, Gwynn had an On-base percentage of .388, while Raines’ percentage was .385, even with three more seasons played.
Getting on base is getting on base, no matter how you get there. Gwynn got there by getting hits, Raines by walking. If they both had 790 walks, and you convert Raines’ walks to hits, he would have 3,145 hits and would have an average of .334. By focusing on one area, you neglect another, and that is what is keeping Time Raines out of the Hall.
Decision: In another crowded ballot, I am afraid his numbers will go down. It is such a shame.
Next: John Smoltz