The Baseball Hall of Fame announced the 2017 class this evening which included Ivan ‘Pudge’ Rodriguez who didn’t need a Hall induction to go down as one of the best catchers to ever play.
Pudge however couldn’t hold back the emotion upon learning the news surrounded by friends and family.
I have no words, best call ever! A dream that came true today! So thankful! Thank you thank you God bless you all #Pudge7HOF pic.twitter.com/Od0bNONZjv
— Ivan Pudge Rodriguez (@Pudge_Rodriguez) January 18, 2017
Gracias, Gracias, gracias, muchas gracias, es tan grande la emoción…. bendiciones a todos #Pudge7HOF pic.twitter.com/gGjTNJMFD4
— Ivan Pudge Rodriguez (@Pudge_Rodriguez) January 18, 2017
Joining Rodriguez is former Astros first baseman Jeff Bagwell and outfielder Tim Raines who spent time between six Major League teams including 13 with the Montreal Expos.
For Pudge though, the former 14-time All-Star becomes a first ballot hall of famer after appearing on 336 of the 442 ballots cast.
Spending most of his career in Texas, Pudge will enter the Cooperstown as a Ranger but his success on other Major League teams is very much noted. He ended up winning the World Series in 2003 with the Marlins and made the trip once more in 2006 with the Tigers.
A defensive master behind the plate, Rodriguez is the MLB leader for putouts by a catcher and has the best caught stealing percentage of any Major League catcher at 45.68 percent.