He quickly found himself on the Level of Excellence. He is now on the ballot for the 2024 Hall of Fame. On Monday, the ballot for the BBWWA was released, featuring Bautista as the candidate. Although he signed a one-day deal in August to officially depart from the team he so greatly contributed to, he last played in the majors in 2018. The second person to be inducted into the Level of Excellence in honor of his accomplishments with the Blue Jays was Bautista. In his baseball career, this was a huge accomplishment.
Baseball Hall of Fame Ballot Features 12 Newcomers
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While his stats alone may not get him in, the story of his career is legendary. That alone should get him some votes on its own merit. The former outfielder’s career is remarkable and singular. Bautista joins Adrian Beltre, David Wright, Joe Mauer, Matt Holliday are among the new candidates on the Hall of Fame Ballot. Bautista, a six-time All-Star batted .247 with 344 home runs and 975 RBI. He played for Baltimore, Tampa Bay, Kansas City, Pittsburgh, Atlanta and the New York Mets. He led the majors in home runs in back-to-back seasons with 54 in 2010 and 43 in 2011, earning the Hank Aaron Award as the best hitter in the American League.
Making the Case
The most dangerous damage Bautista caused at the plate occurred in Toronto. His leadership qualities helped him become a fan favorite and a member of teams that advanced to the ALCS in back-to-back seasons. His 54 home runs in 2010 set a franchise record, and he and the Blue Jays will never forget the dramatic moment he had during the postseason with his bat flip. It’s among the most amazing things that have ever happened on a baseball diamond.
The deadline for BBWAA voters to turn in their ballots is December 31. The results will be made public on January 23. To be elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame, candidates must get votes on 75% of the total ballots.
