Is Scott Rolen a Hall of Famer?
I don’t have the energy this morning to recap last night’s game. The Reds won and let’s just leave it at that.
While browsing the Reds blogs, I came across an interesting piece from John Fay. Only two third basemen (who have played 50 percent of their career games at third base) in MLB history have recorded at least 2,000 hits, 300 home runs, 1,200 RBI and 500 doubles. One is Hall of Famer George Brett and the other is future Hall of Famer Chipper Jones.
Scott Rolen needs two doubles to join this elite club. He currently has 2,001 hits, 308 home runs, 1,247 RBI and 498 doubles.
Rolen’s defense is exceptional, even at this stage of his career.
So, Reds Country, are we looking at a future Hall of Famer?
This is why there is a 5 year “cooling off” period, so we can ponder these questions without being blinded by emotion. As Reds fans, we are more likely to view Rolen as a future Hall of Famer, but in five years, will we think the same? Personally I think every player in baseball history who has ever worn a Reds uniform should be enshrined, but I am, admittedly, a bit of a homer
Even though he has the career numbers, can anyone honestly say that Scott Rolen was the premier player at his position for an extended period of time? He has only appeared in 6 All star games in 15 full seasons, although the first five appearances were consecutive. (2002-2006) He has only been in the top 20 in MVP voting 4 times, including last season, with a high water mark of 4th in 2004. He did win Rookie of the Year, eight Gold Gloves and a Silver Slugger award, but I’m not quite sure if that is enough.
Just like anyone who has played in the “steroid era”, there will always be doubts about numbers. Rolen was never a big slugger, only reaching a high of 34 home runs in 2004, so he was probably clean.
So there, in my roundabout way, is my answer: who knows? I’m sure he won’t get in on the first few ballots. He may be another Jim Rice or Bert Blyleven and have to wait until near the end of his eligibility if he gets in at all.