[rms13]

Originally Posted by Skipscards

When Votto entered the league the best 1st baseman was obviously Albert Pujols. Pujols probably held that position until his early-mid 30s. After that, Paul Goldschmidt. Prince Fielder or Miggy Cabrera could have been argued for a couple of years perhaps, but Pujols was the best 1st baseman for the first part of Votto's career and Goldschmidt was the best 1st baseman for the second part.

As for Keith. Yes, Keith. Arguably the greatest defensive 1st baseman in history, has an MVP just like Votto, and was an important part of 2 championship teams. When you have guys with borderline stats like Votto and Hernandez, the narrative is important. Hernandez has a much stronger narrative than Votto.

I'd also consider Mattingly before Votto. Mattingly's career was cut short by injuries but at his best, he actually was the best player in the game.

In fact, without doing a lot of digging, I think Will Clark may be another one I'd consider over Votto had he won the MVP over Mitchell like he should have in 1989 or if the Giants hadn't lost the Earthquake Series that year. Even still, I'd flip a coin between them.

The tough thing for Votto is the position he plays. It's the same issue Mattingly, Clark, and Hernandez all have. Voters want eye popping power totals from their HOF 1st basemen. Look how they treated Lance Berkman. His career is a lot like Votto's and Berkman even won a Championship.

I'm not saying he won't get in. I'm saying it will likely take a while.

And yet Helton got in this year and he has essentially the same numbers without an MVP