Christmas Goose
The Hall of Fame has always been slow to recognize the changing landscape of baseball. They put emphasis on stats like wins, RBI, runs, and other team-influenced numbers. Sluggers from the late 70's-80's are hampered by the comparisons to the huge numbers their counterparts put up in the 90's. And of course, it's been nearly impossible for relievers to get into the Hall.
Rich Gossage was the prototype for the modern day closer. He was the first, true, scary game ending pitcher. As evidenced many times, and here again by Bob Klapish, Gossage's numbers are pretty spectacular, especially if you consider that Dennis Eckersley is already a member of the Hall. Gossage wasn't a one inning pitcher. He was more often a two inning pitcher (4.73 outs per save).
Yet the Hall voters look at saves and saves alone. It was a different era, saves weren't a valued stat.
It's time the Goose got his due. Do the right thing this year, voters. Hang up a plaque of a golden Goose.
posted by Mr. Faded Glory @ 1:03 PM
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