The 2026 MLB Hall of Fame ballot is absolutely stacked. From first-timers with decorated careers to returning candidates with complicated legacies, this year’s class is a true test for voters. And with several big names still shadowed by PED controversies, the path to Cooperstown isn’t exactly a straight line.
Let’s start with the returning candidates. Alex Rodriguez and Manny Ramirez jump off the page - two generational talents whose numbers would’ve punched their ticket to the Hall years ago, if not for performance-enhancing drug suspensions.
Their cases remain polarizing. On pure production, they’re slam dunks.
But the PED cloud continues to keep them on the outside looking in.
Carlos Beltrán is another name that demands attention. After falling short last year, this could be the year he finally breaks through.
Beltrán’s case is strong: over 400 home runs, over 300 stolen bases, nine All-Star selections, and a postseason track record that speaks for itself. He was a complete player - a switch-hitter with power, speed, and Gold Glove defense in center field.
Albert Pujols, who battled Beltrán in some epic postseason duels, recently spoke about his longtime friend and rival, praising not just Beltrán’s talent but also his work ethic and consistency.
“Carlos not only hurt you with the bat, the guy could steal a bag and play great defense,” Pujols said. “He never changed.
Really dedicated, really disciplined about his work. That’s why he had such a successful career.”
"Hopefully this year he gets a chance to go into the Hall of Fame."
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) January 20, 2026
- Albert Pujols on Carlos Beltrán pic.twitter.com/FU49Wqncqr
Pujols also recalled their memorable postseason clash - Beltrán with Houston, Pujols with St. Louis - and the mutual respect that came from going toe-to-toe at the highest level.
“He played the game hard, with respect, with honor,” said Pujols. “Hopefully this year he gets a chance to go into the Hall of Fame.”
Beltrán’s résumé is certainly Hall-worthy, and while the sign-stealing scandal from his time with the Astros as a player-turned-coach may have delayed his induction, his on-field legacy remains undeniable.
Other returning candidates include Andruw Jones, who continues to gain momentum thanks to his elite defense and power numbers; Chase Utley, a key piece of the Phillies’ golden era; Jimmy Rollins, a former MVP with a well-rounded skill set; and David Wright and Dustin Pedroia, two fan favorites whose careers were unfortunately cut short by injuries but still left lasting impressions.
Then there’s Andy Pettitte, who brings postseason pedigree and durability to the table. Like A-Rod and Manny, Pettitte’s name has been linked to PEDs, but his candidacy has been viewed through a slightly different lens, perhaps due to his transparency and the context of his usage.
On the first-time ballot, we’ve got some intriguing names. Ryan Braun, another former MVP with a PED suspension in his past, headlines the group.
Felix Hernandez, the longtime Mariners ace, brings a Cy Young and six All-Star nods to his case. Cole Hamels, a World Series MVP with a long track record of consistency, also joins the ballot.
Edwin Encarnación, Matt Kemp, and Shin-Soo Choo round out a class that may not be first-ballot material, but includes players who were among the best at their peak.
The Hall of Fame is a tough club to crack, and with only so many votes to go around, this year will test how voters weigh peak performance, longevity, postseason success, and of course, the ever-present PED debate.
Last year, CC Sabathia, Billy Wagner, and Ichiro Suzuki were enshrined - a class that brought both dominance and fan-favorite flair. This year’s group brings similar intrigue, but with more question marks and tougher decisions.
One thing’s for sure: whoever makes it to Cooperstown in 2026 will have earned it the hard way.