Overview
- The 27-player ballot features first-time eligibles Cole Hamels, Ryan Braun, Matt Kemp, Howie Kendrick, Daniel Murphy, Rick Porcello, Shin-Soo Choo, Edwin Encarnación, Gio González, Alex Gordon, Nick Markakis and Hunter Pence.
- Carlos Beltrán leads returning candidates after drawing 70.3% in 2025, with Andruw Jones next at 66.2%; no other holdover topped 40% last cycle.
- Hamels is widely viewed as the strongest newcomer, with a 163-122 record, 3.43 ERA, a 2015 no-hitter and NLCS and World Series MVP honors in 2008.
- Election requires 75% of BBWAA ballots, 5% is needed to remain eligible for up to 10 years, ballots are due Dec. 31 and results will be announced Jan. 20 on MLB Network, with induction scheduled for July 2026 in Cooperstown.
- A separate Contemporary Baseball Era Committee vote on Dec. 7 will consider Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, Don Mattingly, Dale Murphy, Carlos Delgado, Jeff Kent, Gary Sheffield and Fernando Valenzuela, with any selections joining the Class of 2026.