Part 4/8:
The conversation turns to the complexities of analyzing starting pitchers for Hall of Fame potential. Verducci observes that the game is witnessing evolving criteria regarding what constitutes a Hall of Famer in the pitching category. Traditional metrics such as innings pitched and strikeouts are ample for players like CeCe Sabathia, but as the game progresses, the standard is shifting.
He highlights the careers of pitchers like Felix Hernandez and Johan Santana, who had remarkable peaks but may lack the traditional markers considered essential for entry into the Hall of Fame. Many pitchers with a high-performing peak might not reach the traditional benchmarks, raising questions about past voting patterns and how they may influence future considerations.