Yankees and the Hall of Fame: Kenny Rogers
- James Vlietstra
- Apr 2
- 1 min read
by James Vlietstra
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Over the next many months, I am going to review the credentials of several former Yankees.
With all that being said, I am going to review the credentials of several former Yankees. Together, we can discuss if we believe that they are deserving of being included in the Hall Of Fame or not. I hope you read along and give me your opinions over the next several weeks.
Note - Some people currently in the Hall Of Fame are not specifically in for their merits as a player alone. For instance, Joe Torre didn't get in until after his success as a manager. Phil Rizzuto made it after a career as an announcer. Overall, their careers were definitely deserving. Similarly, Bill Mazeroski was generally considered a light hitting middle infielder, however, one iconic moment got him enshrined. I am including some of these type players too for us to discuss.
Today we are going to be discussing:
Kenny Rogers
During his 20 year career, Kenny Rogers pitched for six teams. Two of those seasons were with the Yankees.
His 50.5 WAR ranks 100th all time and is more than Hall of Famers Hoyt Wilhelm and Addie Joss.
He had three seasons above 5.0+.
He threw over 195 innings ten different times.
He struck out 1,968 batters, again good for 100th all time.
His record was 219-156, good for a .584 winning percentage. That win total is good for 83rd all time.
Rogers also threw a Perfect Game and was a four time All Star and won one World Series.
Why are we even mentioning him as a HOFer. He couldn't handle New York when he pitched here.
I apologize for the credit to the wrong author and incorrect summary on the title page. It has been fixed.
Looking at his career in detail, he’s better than I thought. Was great in 2006 postseason.
Not a HOFer to me. Had some pretty low lows on the way.
Another Hall of the Very Good candidate.
No way. Too many hits per inning, poor era, even in winning seasons.