2026 Baseball Hall of Fame Ballot Announced: Encarnación Among Candidates
The Baseball Writers’ Association of America (BBWAA) has revealed the official list of candidates for the 2026 Baseball Hall of Fame election. The ballot includes twelve players appearing for the first time, including the renowned Dominican designated hitter, Edwin Encarnación. To be elected, players need to obtain at least 75% of the votes cast by BBWAA members. Encarnación, famous for his power at the plate, his multiple seasons with more than 30 home runs and his outstanding performance with teams like the Blue Jays, Reds and Indians, will seek to secure votes in his first opportunity on the Cooperstown ballot. In addition to the new nominees, the ballot includes 15 players who were already on the list from the previous year, including Carlos Beltrán and Andruw Jones.The BBWAA will announce the voting results on January 20, 2026.
BBWAA
Debutantes on the 2026 Ballot
- Cole Hamels (Phillies, Left-handed pitcher)
- Ryan Braun (Brewers, Outfielder)
- Alex Gordon (Royals, Left fielder)
- Shin-Soo Choo (Rangers, Outfielder)
- Edwin Encarnación (Blue Jays, Designated hitter / 1B)
- Hunter Pence (Giants, Outfielder)
- Matt Kemp (Dodgers, Outfielder)
- Rick Porcello (Red Sox, Pitcher)
- Daniel Murphy (Mets, Infielder)
- Howie Kendrick (Nationals, Second baseman)
- Nick Markakis (Orioles, Outfielder)
- Gio González (Nationals, Left-handed pitcher)
