Carlos Beltrán and Andruw Jones are on pace for induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame's Class of 2026, according to early ballot tracking. Jeff Kent has already secured his place through the Contemporary Era Committee. The BBWAA will announce the full results on January 20.
The National Baseball Hall of Fame's Class of 2026 is taking shape, with early indicators pointing to a strong year for outfielders Carlos Beltrán and Andruw Jones. Based on 140 publicly tracked ballots out of an estimated 424 from the Baseball Writers' Association of America (BBWAA), Beltrán holds 88.4% support in his fourth year of eligibility, well above the 75% threshold required for induction. Jones, in his ninth year, stands at 83.0%, also comfortably ahead despite entering his final ballot year.
Both players face potential hurdles from off-field controversies. Beltrán was implicated in the Houston Astros' 2017 sign-stealing scandal, which contributed to a dip in his support last year from 73.6% on public ballots to 70.3% overall. Jones, meanwhile, was arrested on domestic violence charges in 2012, though the case was resolved without conviction. These issues highlight the BBWAA's evolving application of the character clause in voting.
Jeff Kent, the only player elected so far this cycle, gained entry via the Contemporary Era Committee's December vote, bypassing the BBWAA after receiving 46.5% in his final ballot year in 2023. Other notable candidates include Chase Utley at 66.7% in his third year and Félix Hernández at 58.5% in his second, both showing promise for future classes. Cole Hamels starts strong at 32.0% in his debut.
Controversial figures like Alex Rodriguez, at 47.6% amid steroid allegations, and Andy Pettitte at 55.8% show gains but face resistance. Manny Ramirez, in his 10th and final year at 43.5%, may turn to the Era Committee next. Lower vote-getters, including Ryan Braun at 2.7%, risk falling off the ballot.
The ballot tracker, maintained by Ryan Thibodaux, Anthony Calamis, and Adam Dore, reveals trends but notes that private ballots often prove more conservative. With no first-ballot locks this year—unlike recent inductees Ichiro Suzuki and Adrian Beltré—the class underscores the gradual nature of Hall consideration.
