NEW YORK – Eight time All-Star outfielder, Andre Dawson, was finally elected to the Hall of Fame after nine trys. Other players considered for baseball’s honor who just fell short were Bert Blyleven and Roberto Alomar.
Andre Dawson was elected to National Baseball Hall of Fame after nine trys.
The Baseball Writers’ Association of America announced that Dawson received 420 of 539 votes in voting, 15 more than the 75 percent necessary to gain election.
“It was well worth the wait. I can’t really describe the elation,” Dawson said during a telephone conference call. “If you’re a Hall of Famer, eventually you’re going to get in, no matter how long it takes.”
Dawson, whose nickname was “The Hawk,” played 1,443 games with the Expos, fourth highest in franchise history. As an Expo, Dawson set single-season club records for home runs (32), RBI (113) and extra base hits (78).
Dawson played for the Expos until after the 1986 season when he signed with the Chicago Cubs. In 1987, he became the Cubs starting rightfielder, hit 49 home runs and was named NL MVP. Dawson played five more seasons with the Cubs and was one of the franchise’s most popular players during that time.
Dawson also played for the Boston Red Sox and the Florida Marlins before retiring with 2,774 hits, 438 home runs, 314 stolen bases and 1591 RBI. He is one of only six players in major league history to record over 300 home runs and 300 stolen bases in his career. Dawson is also one of only three members of the 400 home run-300 stolen base club, joining Barry Bonds and Willie Mays.
Bert Blyleven, who played from 1970 to 1992, and was best known for his curveball, had 400 votes (74.2 percent), up from 338 last year. Blyleven has two more tries on the BBWAA ballot and will most likely eventually make it.
“Hopefully, next year will be my time,” Blyleven said in an interview on MLB Network.
Alomar, who received 397 votes (73.7 percent) was followed by pitcher Jack Morris who received 282 votes (52.3 percent).
“I feel disappointed, but next year hopefully I make it in,” Alomar said “At least I was close.”
PFP Sports and Celebrity Talent Agency is a top booking agent for sports stars, athlete appearances, endorsements and celebrities. For more information, call 800.966.1380
