1981 Hall of Fame
We've discussed the current method for getting into the Hall of Fame, but after the change in voting at the end of the 70's, the ballot going forward was more streamlined with the names. But there actually is a process to reaching the BBWAA ballot to even be considered for the hall. You need to have had the prerequisite 10 years of MLB service and be retired for at least 5 years. That alone isn't enough though. As endless as the list seems to be of 1st time entries, there is actually a screening committee that determines who actually gets to go on the ballot when they hit that 5th retirement year. For example, Gene "Stick" Michael and Ed Brinkman both had at least 10 years in the game but the committee did not feel they deserved a chance on the ballot in 1981. So for guys like Ken Berry and Sam McDowell who did reach the ballot but received 0 votes, the old saying comes to mind where "It's an honor just to be nominated."
...Meanwhile Bob Gibson did more than just make it by the selection committee, but well over the required 75% voting to clinch his trip to Cooperstown.
