If forced to bet, I'd say Cano gets in. But he definitely needs to do more in the next few years, including a successful playoff appearance or two. Seems like a "pipe dream" for anyone who follows the M's, but I don't think his HOF induction is a given, otherwise. Clutch hitting has not exactly been his "thing" since coming to the NW. Lots of weak groundouts to second with men in scoring position...
Two former Mets come to mind, who've not yet been mentioned in this discussion... Gooden and Strawberry were both looking like surefire HOFers early-mid career. When it comes to health, physical stamina, mental make-up and other intangibles, you just never know for certain.
|