The Baseball Hall of Fame will announce its 2026 class Tuesday night. Carlos Beltrán and Andruw Jones appear headed for enshrinement based on current projections. Both players have maintained strong support throughout the voting cycle.
Pettitte’s Rise Becomes a Major Storyline
Former Yankees star Andy Pettitte has surged in the Hall of Fame ballot tracker. The five-time World Series champion sits at 57.4% of the public vote. His jump represents one of the largest year‑to‑year increases among all candidates.
A Dramatic Shift in His Candidacy
The results will be revealed on MLB Network at 6 p.m. ET. Pettitte remains short of the 75% needed for induction, but his trajectory has changed the conversation around his candidacy. His support has climbed steadily in recent cycles, showing a clear shift in voter sentiment.
Support Has Climbed Sharply Over Three Years
This is Pettitte’s eighth year on the BBWAA ballot. He appeared on just 14.4% of ballots in 2024. His support rose to 27.9% last year. Now he sits near 58% with many ballots still uncounted.
Returning Voters Drive the Surge
According to Ryan Thibodaux’s Hall of Fame tracker, Pettitte has gained 33 votes from returning BBWAA members who did not support him last year. Only Félix Hernández has gained more returning‑voter support this cycleSporting News.
Historical Comparisons Strengthen His Case
Pettitte’s momentum mirrors the late push seen in Larry Walker’s candidacy. Walker sat at 34.1% after his eighth year on the ballot. He was elected in his 10th and final year in 2020. Pettitte’s supporters believe a similar path is possible.
A New Phase in the Pettitte Debate
Pettitte’s rise has reshaped the Hall of Fame conversation. His postseason résumé, longevity, and consistency continue to resonate with newer voters. Younger BBWAA members have boosted several candidates this cycle, including Pettitte. His 2026 surge positions him as a serious contender for future induction.
