The Keltner List for Hunter Was he ever regarded as the best player in baseball? Did anybody, while he was active, ever suggest that he was the best player in baseball? No. Good but never the best. Was he the best player on his team? I'd say he was the best player on the 2002 Twins. Was he the best player in baseball at his position? Was he the best player in the league at his position? Up for debate in a couple of seasons. Overall I'd say no Did he have an impact on a number of pennant races? Yes and for numerous teams Was he a good enough player that he could continue to play regularly after passing his prime? Yes Is he the very best player in baseball history who is not in the Hall of Fame? No Are most players who have comparable career statistics in the Hall of Fame? No Do the player's numbers meet Hall of Fame standards? Going by Gray Ink and HOF monitor No Is there any evidence to suggest that the player was significantly better or worse than is suggested by his statistics? Had a few seasons with not great offensive numbers but very good defensive numbers at a premium defensive position. Is he the best player at his position who is eligible for the Hall of Fame but not in? Player is still active How many MVP-type seasons did he have? Did he ever win an MVP award? If not, how many times was he close? Best MVP finish was 6th and he wasn't close to winning. How many All-Star-type seasons did he have? How many All-Star games did he play in? Did most of the other players who played in this many go to the Hall of Fame? He's played in five all-star games. If this man were the best player on his team, would it be likely that the team could win the pennant? Best player on 2002 Twins but how close were they to winning the pennant? What impact did the player have on baseball history? Was he responsible for any rule changes? Did he introduce any new equipment? Did he change the game in any way? His All-Star game catch against Barry Bonds led to the tie and the decision that the league who wins the all-star game gets home field in the World Series. Did the player uphold the standards of sportsmanship and character that the Hall of Fame, in its written guidelines, instructs us to consider? Could be hot headed at times but overall yes. One of the more respected players in the league.