August 27th for the Gateway Grizzlies just became even more exciting. It was announced that former St. Louis Cardinal catcher Ted Simmons has finally earned his rightful place among the game’s greats in Cooperstown. After coming up short by one vote in 2017, Simmons earned 81% of the vote this time around.
In an era of baseball where analytics are king, Simmons’ numbers stack up with the best of all-time. While Simmons traditional numbers like AVG., HRs, and RBIs may not jump off the page, his advanced numbers are undeniable. Simmons’ 50.3 WAR (Wins Above Replacement) puts him ninth all-time among catchers. He shares this elite distinction with catchers like Ivan Rodriguez, Johnny Bench, and Yogi Berra.
Simmons only lasted one year on the original BBWAA ballot after receiving 3.7% of the vote in 1994.
The BBWAA’s 2020 class will be unveiled Tuesday, January 21st.
Simmons will be at GCS Credit Union Ballpark on August 27th. The Grizzlies are offering a limited time package that includes a ticket to the game, a meet and greet with Simmons, a Ted Simmons signed baseball, and a bobblehead sponsored by GCS Credit Union that bares his likeness. This is the perfect holiday gift for any baseball fan. The whole package costs $60.
