I was going to give you even more statistical stuff, but the hot weather precludes it.
Rafael Palmeiro was suspended for 10 days for failing Major League Baseball’s steroid use policy. Allegations about use by Mark McGwire and Barry Bonds have also been made.
Palmero is only the fourth player, after Hank Arron, Willie Mays and Eddie Murray, to hit 500 home runs (he has 569, in 9th place all-time, passing Reggie Jackson and closing in on Harmon Killebrew) and get 3000 hits.
McGwire had 583 career home runs, and practically saved baseball in 1998 with his exciting home run race with Sammy Sosa in 1998, after the disasterous strike of 1994.
Bonds not only has 703 homers, but the 7-time MVP was intentionally walked more last year than some teams; he’s been out with injuries all of this season.
Every eligible person (retired five years) who has hit 500 or more home runs has made it to the HoF.
So, I’d like to know:
1. Will Barry Bonds make it to the Baseball Hall of Fame, and should he?
2. Will Mark McGwire make it, and should he?
3. Will Raphael Palmiero make it, and should he
Bonus question:
And what about the chances for Sammy Sosa, who is now #5 on the HR list, behind only Aaron, Ruth, Bonds, and Mays, passing McGwire and Frank Robinson this year?