DALLAS — After waiting for nearly 30 years, former baseball star Dave Parker experienced a wave of emotions as he was finally elected to the Hall of Fame on Sunday, along with the late Dick Allen. Parker, known for his incredible talent on the field, couldn’t help but shed tears, admitting, “Yeah, I cried. It only took a few minutes, because I don’t cry.”
Parker received 14 out of 16 votes from the classic era committee during the winter meetings, surpassing the required 75% for election. Dick Allen earned 13 votes. Both players will be formally inducted in Cooperstown, New York, on July 27, alongside those chosen by the Baseball Writers’ Association of America, whose results will be unveiled on January 21.
In a committee focused on players who made significant impacts before 1980, Tommy John came in third with seven votes, while figures like Ken Boyer and Luis Tiant garnered less than five votes. Unfortunately, Negro Leaguers John Donaldson and Vic Harris also fell short.
At 73 years old, Parker reflected on his long journey to this moment. He previously appeared on the BBWAA ballot 15 times between 1997 and 2011, with a high of only 24.5% of the votes. Allen, who passed away in 2020, managed just 18.9% during his own voting period from 1983 to 1997.
Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2012, Parker still displayed his characteristic quick wit during a Zoom news conference. When asked if he viewed himself as a Hall of Famer, he responded confidently, reflecting back to his childhood dreams of greatness. “Without a doubt. When the leaves turned brown, I’d be wearing the batting crown,” he said.
Affectionately known as “The Cobra,” Parker enjoyed a successful career from 1973 to 1991, hitting .290 with 339 home runs and 1,493 RBIs playing for teams like the Pittsburgh Pirates and the Oakland Athletics. His legacy includes two World Series titles, several All-Star selections, and he was recognized as the National League MVP in 1978.
As the Hall of Fame decides which team logo to display on each inductee’s cap, Parker quipped, “I might have to split it up three ways,” acknowledging all the teams he played for. Known for his competitive spirit, he never took a play off, always running hard to first base.
Parker was also known for his sense of humor, having once created a memorable T-shirt saying for his Pirates teammates during a slump. His playful nature wasn’t limited to jokes; he made a notable impact on the field, leading major league outfielders with 26 assists in 1977.
Dick Allen, who found success from 1963 to 1977, was famed for his power hitting, achieving a .292 average with 351 home runs. Known as Richie Allen early in his career, he asked to be called Dick later on and went on to become a seven-time All-Star and the 1964 National League Rookie of the Year.
Looking ahead, the upcoming Hall of Fame ballot will feature notable names like Ichiro Suzuki and CC Sabathia, while returning on the ballot will be players like Billy Wagner, who came very close to being inducted last January. As tribute to their remarkable careers, the induction ceremony will celebrate the rich history and tradition of the game, recognizing the players who paved the way for future stars.
