Detroit Tigers Represented on 2018 Hall of Fame Ballot

Omar Vizquel

While not technically a Tiger, Omar Vizquel was hired in November of 2013 to be the Detroit Tigers first base coach.

Under former manager Brad Ausmus, Vizquel also served as the Tigers infield and base-running coach.

He resided in that role through last season, but won’t return as part of the new Detroit coaching staff.

Vizquel is certainly qualified to coach infield and baserunning, two areas he excelled at in his 24-year career.

Vizquel opened up his career in Seattle, playing five seasons there and winning one Gold Glove.

He then spent 11 season as a member of the Cleveland Indians, winning eight Gold Glove Awards and making three All-Star games.

Vizquel won two more Gold Glove Awards in his four years with the Giants before bouncing around the Rangers, White Sox and Blue Jays to finish out his career.

Vizquel’s 11 Gold Glove Awards are tied for sixth all-time among position players, second only to Ozzie Smith among shortstops. His 28.4 dWAR is 10th all time.

There is no doubt that Vizquel is one of the greatest defensive players in the history of baseball, but is he Hall worthy?

His 82 OPS+ is substantially below average. His 2,877 hits is nice but his 80 home runs and 404 stolen bases are both not up to par for Hall of Famers, even at shortstop.

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Vizquel will get plenty of votes for the HOF, but a crowded ballot may keep him short of induction in his first season. However, there is a good chance he will eventually wind up in Cooperstown.