

HARDBALL 24/7 ARCHIVES
MEET THE NEWEST INDUCTEES
The newest class is officially enshrined with the rest of the legends, that graced the diamond throughout baseball's history. Each newest inductee put their unique spin with their speeches.
Harold Baines bat did the talking, thanks by the Today's Game Era Committee, as he was deemed as Hall worthy. Baines was personal with his speech, especially with his family. He went in as a White Sox.
It was a change of sport thanks to his high school principal that put Lee Smith where he is today. He didn't make it during the five years on the ballot process. When up by the Today's Game Era Committee, Smith's career could not be ignored at all. He thanked loyalty to his teammates throughout his stops. In the end, he went in as a Cub.
Mike Mussina explained the origin of his "Moose" nickname. He also looked back at his major league debut. He thanked those who made it possible as he had to wait a few years until he got above the required threshold to enter the Hall. His hat went logo less.
The chants of "Ed-gar! Ed-gar!" filled his induction as Edgar Martinez was on stage. He thanked those who made it possible throughout his journey of his career, including his cousin. He also flash backed to his feelings after his friend Randy Johnson left the Mariners.
The passing of Roy Halladay was tough on the family. His wife gave the speech that his husband would have given in front of the podium and his family. The only memory given of his presence was a video of his career. She decided to go with a blank less hat because of the support that the Blue Jays and Phillies gave throughout the aftermath.
Closing out the festivities, Mariano Rivera came out to his entrance music of "Enter Sandman", played by Yankee alum Bernie Williams. Unanimously voted in at 100%, Rivera thanked the core (that was in attendance) that helped him made it possible during the era where the Yankees amassed World Series titles. He also expressed love of his family and apologized for missing key moments with his kids.
The 2019 class left an unforgettable mark. Next year is expected to be highlighted by one of the greatest shortstops in the modern game.