Former Reds third baseman Scott Rolen rewarded with Hall of Fame election
The Cincinnati Reds can add another name to the long list of former players who've been elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame. Scott Rolen punched his ticket to Cooperstown on Tuesday.
Rolen will be joined by Fred McGriff who was unanimously elected by the Contemporary Era Committee back in December.
Rolen, who played a key role in getting the Reds back to the playoffs during his time in Cincinnati, received 76.3% of the Hall of Fame vote. Players need at least 75% in order to be enshrined in Cooperstown.
Former Reds 3B Scott Rolen elected to Baseball Hall of Fame.
Scott Rolen spent 17 years in the big leagues ans suited up for four different franchises along the way. Rolen won the NL Rookie of the Year Award in while playing for the Philadelphia Phillies in 1997, went to four of his seven All-Star Games while part of the St. Louis Cardinals, and won one of his eight Gold Gloves while a member of the Cincinnati Reds.
Rolen was arguably the best defensive third baseman of his era. His eight Gold Gloves are the fourth-most among all third baseman. Only Brooks Robinson, Mike Schmidt, and Nolan Arenado have won more.
Rolen was not the only former Reds player to appear on the Hall of Fame ballot. Bronson Arroyo, who received just one vote, was also eligible. Arroyo will fall off the ballot next year after failing to receive the required 5% in order to remain eligible. Arroyo, however, will be enshrined in the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame this coming summer.
Scott Rolen was one of the best players of his generation and was rightfully rewarded for his performance. Next year, Reds fans will be looking to see whether or not longtime fan favorite Brandon Phillips receives any love from the baseball writers.