Underrated Rays super utility player gets first chance on Hall of Fame ballot

Merely being named to the Hall of Fame ballot and having the chance to be honored forever in Cooperstown is an incredible accomplishment. Former Rays second baseman, Ben Zobrist received this opportunity as he was added to this edition of the Hall of Fame voting. While he may never obtain the votes necessary to enter the Hall, no one can downplay his underrated major league career.

The Illinois native won two World Series in 2015 and 2016, including a World Series MVP award with the Cubs in 2016. Regardless of these amazing accomplishments which ultimately led to his appearance on the ballot, Zobrist actually had his best years in Tampa Bay.

The utility man appeared in nine seasons with the Rays and recorded a combined .264 AVG. His best season was in 2009 when he hit .297 with 27 HRs and 91 RBIs. The 6th round pick was named to his first all-star game that season, as he played seven different positions including each outfield spot.

Primarily viewed as a second baseman, Zobrist was also top 10 in the MLB in offensive stats such as on-base percentage, RBIs, and home runs among second basemen. There's no question that the 3-time all-star belongs on the ballot, at the very least.

In order to analyze this Hall of Fame ballot, we need to review the rules of voting. Each person deemed eligible to vote is able to choose up to 10 players that they believe belong in Cooperstown. If any player receives a vote from 75% of the ballots, then they are officially inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Last year, Adrian Beltre, Todd Helton, and Twins legend, Joe Mauer received the votes required to be named Hall of Famers.

However, it's difficult to make a case for Ben Zobrist this time around as he will be among sensational stars like Ichiro Suzuki, Carlos Beltran, and Andruw Jones to name a few.

Nonetheless, this is Zobrist's first year on the ballot and players have the ability to remain on a Hall of Fame ballot for up to 10 years. In fact, dominant left-handed reliever, Billy Wagner is in his 10th and final year on the ballot, as he is hopeful he'll receive the required votes this year.

In conclusion, Rays fans are thrilled to see Ben Zobrist's name among so many renowned athletes. Despite the Dallas Baptist product's sudden departure from the league, voters should certainly consider his underestimated career.