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Detroit Tigers Represented on 2018 Hall of Fame Ballot

By Andy Patton

OAKLAND, CA - MAY 27: Dixon Machado #49 of the Detroit Tigers is congratulated by first base coach Omar Vizquel #15 after hitting a single for his first Major League hit during the sixth inning against the Oakland Athletics at O.co Coliseum on May 27, 2015 in Oakland, California. The Detroit Tigers defeated the Oakland Athletics 3-2.(Photo by Jason O. Watson/Getty Images)
OAKLAND, CA - MAY 27: Dixon Machado #49 of the Detroit Tigers is congratulated by first base coach Omar Vizquel #15 after hitting a single for his first Major League hit during the sixth inning against the Oakland Athletics at O.co Coliseum on May 27, 2015 in Oakland, California. The Detroit Tigers defeated the Oakland Athletics 3-2.(Photo by Jason O. Watson/Getty Images) /
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Detroit Tigers
ANAHEIM, CA – JULY 28: Gary Sheffield #3 of the Detroit Tigers waits for his at bat against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim at Angels Stadium on July 28, 2007 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Lisa Blumenfeld/Getty Images) /

Gary Sheffield

Gary Sheffield is entering his fourth year on the ballot, having earned 13.3% of the vote last year. He earned 11.7% in 2015 and 11.6% in 2016.

The likelihood of his support increasing from 13% to 75% over the next six years are slim. Sheffield might have to wait for the Veteran’s Committee to give him a chance at induction.

Sheffield played for eight different teams across 22 seasons, blasting 509 home runs and slashing .292/.393/.514 in his illustrious career.

The outfielder and designed hitter joined the Tigers in November of 2006 in a trade with the New York Yankees. The Tigers surrendered three prospects in the deal; Anthony Claggett, Humberto Sanchez and Kevin Whelan.

Sheffield spent two years in the Motor City, hitting .247 with 44 home runs, 31 stolen bases and a .788 OPS.

He was released after the 2008 season and signed with the New York Mets to close out his career.

Sheffield’s lack of support from voters could stem from an overcrowded ballot. Voters are only allowed to vote for 10 players. With a plethora of talent on the ballot, some players might not get as many votes.

Sheffield was one of the greatest power hitters of his generation, but has a long road ahead of him before he sees his name on a plaque in Cooperstown.

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