If you were to create a list highlighting the best defensive players in baseball at each position, Willie Mays would likely take the top spot in center field. However, Andruw Jones is a strong contender for a high ranking.

Known for his spectacular catches, powerful arm, and exceptional range in the outfield, Jones was a key player for the Atlanta Braves, contributing to their dynasty during his first decade in Major League Baseball.

Debuting as a 19-year-old in 1996, Jones quickly established himself as a remarkable defender. He achieved national recognition later that year when he belted two home runs against the New York Yankees in Game 1 of the World Series.

Hailing from Curacao, Jones transformed into a formidable power hitter in the Braves’ lineup, belting at least 25 home runs for ten consecutive seasons and driving in over 90 runs nine times.

When he departed Atlanta after the 2007 season, he already had a Hall of Fame-worthy resume, featuring 10 Gold Gloves, five All-Star selections, and a home run title. Unfortunately, after his peak, his performance declined sharply as he switched teams multiple times and wrapped up his career in 2012 as a part-time corner outfielder and designated hitter.

Why Andruw Jones deserves Hall of Fame consideration

Throughout his 12-year tenure with Atlanta, Jones remained an elite player, particularly on defense. He compiled 330 home runs and maintained a batting line of .263/.342/.497.

Jones notched seven 30-plus home run seasons, with a standout performance in 2005 where he led the majors with 51 home runs. That same year, he earned a Silver Slugger award and finished second to Albert Pujols in the National League MVP voting.

However, his true strength lay in his defensive prowess. Jones earned 10 consecutive Gold Gloves from 1998 to 2007, second only to Mays in overall achievements. He also ranks first among outfielders (and second overall to Brooks Robinson) in Total Zone Runs above average.

Over his career, Jones achieved 62.7 Wins Above Replacement, according to Baseball-Reference.com.

Arguments against Jones’ Hall of Fame candidacy

Despite hitting 434 home runs over 17 seasons in the majors, Jones fell short of the 2,000-hit milestone, finishing with 1,933, and ended his career with a batting average of .254.

One of the most significant criticisms of his candidacy is the rapid decline he experienced after turning 30. His stint with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2008 was disappointing, partly due to injuries, which marked the first time he faced significant health issues.

Knee problems persisted thereafter, undermining his defensive abilities and affecting his performance at the plate. After a stellar start to his career, Jones contributed only 1.7 WAR from ages 31 to 35.

Trends in Hall of Fame Voting

As per Ryan Thibodaux’s Hall of Fame Tracker, Jones currently enjoys support from 74.3% of public votes as of January 14.

Now in his eighth year on the ballot, Jones’ voting percentage has increased steadily since he first became eligible. This trend is typically favorable for candidates who may be on the fence, as they often see a boost as they near their final year on the ballot.

• 2018: 7.3%
• 2019: 7.5%
• 2020: 19.4%
• 2021: 33.9%
• 2022: 41.4%
• 2023: 58.1%
• 2024: 61.6%

Conclusion

Momentum appears to be favoring Jones, as the passage of time seems to only enhance his already impressive defensive reputation.

While he may not reach the 75% threshold during his eighth year of eligibility, he could become the leading returning candidate on next year’s ballot. (Unless Carlos Beltran surpasses him but fails to get elected.)

Furthermore, next year’s new eligible candidates do not include any obvious shoo-ins, which positions Jones as a strong contender for enshrinement on the 2026 ballot.