A Hall of Fame résumé consists of various accolades, including MVP awards, Cy Youngs, All-Star selections, and fan and media appreciation. However, one of the most significant indicators of success is winning a World Series. Although some of the greatest players—like Ted Williams, Barry Bonds, and Ernie Banks—never clinched a championship, a World Series title shines brightly on a Hall of Fame plaque. This will be particularly noticeable for Shohei after last season.
This year features several outstanding players who seem destined for Cooperstown, or are at least close enough that a title would bolster their case. Here’s a look at the top eight players for whom a championship would be particularly meaningful, either as an essential milestone or to complete their legacy.
1) Bryce Harper, 1B, Phillies
Harper is an obvious choice. A two-time MVP and eight-time All-Star, he has lived up to his phenom status since day one. Projected career milestones include 500 home runs and 2,000 hits, alongside seven postseason appearances where he boasts a 1.016 OPS across 53 games. Notably, after his departure, his former team, the Nationals, won the World Series, making Harper’s quest for a title all the more compelling.
2) Aaron Judge, OF, Yankees
Judge, in his tenth season, has made a name for himself as one of the greatest Yankees, yet he lacks a World Series title—something that many of his predecessors possess. Since the Yankees’ last championship came seven years prior to his arrival, Judge carries a burden; he risks being remembered like Don Mattingly, a great player associated with not winning a championship.
3) Manny Machado, 3B, Padres
Machado boasts a commendable career despite not winning an MVP award, with five top-10 finishes. He reached the World Series once with the Dodgers but now leads a Padres team eager for its first championship since 1998. A title win would significantly enhance Machado’s legacy, especially since the Padres have yet to secure a World Series victory.
4) Francisco Lindor, SS, Mets
Lindor’s journey with the Mets is noteworthy, having initially faced booing from fans. A World Series title would mark a new era for the Mets, with Lindor at the forefront. If the team wins, he will solidify his status as a franchise legend and enhance his Hall of Fame chances, particularly since his teammate Juan Soto already has a championship ring.
5) Giancarlo Stanton, DH, Yankees
While some argue Stanton doesn’t fit the Hall of Fame mold, he is on track for 500 home runs and a storied career with the Yankees. Having faced injuries and less impactful seasons compared to his time in Miami, winning a World Series could redefine his legacy. If he plays a key role in securing a championship for the Yankees, it would silence doubts about his status.
6) Paul Goldschmidt, 1B, Yankees
Goldschmidt may not have the lengthy history with the Yankees that Judge and Stanton do, but winning a World Series would significantly bolster his Hall of Fame candidacy. Despite winning an MVP, he has yet to have a World Series appearance, only competing in one NLCS where he struggled. A title could elevate his perception from being merely solid to spectacular.
7) Blake Snell, LHP, Dodgers
It’s unusual to see Snell on this list due to injuries limiting his innings. However, winning two Cy Young Awards, with the possibility of more to come, keeps his Hall of Fame aspirations alive. His only World Series appearance ended controversially when the Rays pulled him after a strong start, underscoring the weight of a title for his legacy.
8) Christian Yelich, OF, Brewers
Yelich’s career has had ups and downs, including an MVP win in 2018 but struggling to replicate that success since. With his team positioned to potentially win the World Series, his leadership could shine. For someone nearing 2,000 hits, a championship would reignite the star potential that once made him one of the top players in baseball.
