Larry Walker Reveals He Was Nervously Tracking Hall of Fame Ballots Like the Rest of Us
By Jerry Trotta
Though it shouldn't have come to this, Larry Walker finally defeated the odds to earn a permanent enshrinement in the hallowed halls of Cooperstown.
The world-class slugger received 304 votes, six above the 75% needed for induction, and up from his indefensible 54.6% tally last year. Considering his countless subs, it genuinely seemed like, leading up to this year at least, everybody BUT voters believed Walker deserved the nod.
As it turns out, Walker himself was pessimistic about his chances.
Larry Walker gave @NotMrTibbs a shout-out on the HOF conference call, said he'd figured he'd finish at 73.3% (thought it was interesting he got so specific with the decimal!)
— Mark Simon (@MarkASimonSays) January 22, 2020
Of course, the former MVP was making his 10th (and final) appearance on the BBWAA ballot. He even tweeted earlier in the day before the voting results were publicized, saying that "I believe I'm going to come up a little short today."
Given how egregious his previous shunning was, you really can't blame Walker for lacking moxie. Ironically enough, that's the exact attribute that helped strike fear into the heart of opposing pitchers when he stepped up to the dish.
Although I believe I’m going to come up a little short today I still wanna thank all you that have been pulling for me and showing your support. I’m grateful for all of you! It’s been fun leading up to today reading everyone’s thoughts. Cheers ? LW
— Larry Walker (@Cdnmooselips33) January 21, 2020
Kick back and enjoy this one, Larry. It was a long time coming, and the voters finally did right in your honor.