Cole Hamels, the left-handed pitcher who starred for the Texas Rangers among other MLB teams, is on the 2026 Baseball Hall of Fame ballot, marking the first time the 15-year veteran has been eligible for induction. Hamels must receive 75% of the vote from the Baseball Writers’ Association of America to earn a spot in Cooperstown, with results set to be announced Jan. 20 at 6 p.m. ET on MLB Network.
Hamels spent part of his illustrious career in Texas after a long run with the Phillies, bringing veteran leadership and dominant pitching to the Rangers’ rotation. Known for his strikeout ability, Hamels tallied 2,560 career strikeouts, placing him 34th all-time and surpassing Hall of Famers such as Don Drysdale and Jim Palmer. Only 12 left-handers have reached 2,500 strikeouts, and Hamels joins elite company alongside Clayton Kershaw, Chris Sale, and recently inducted CC Sabathia.
During his Rangers tenure, Hamels provided stability and postseason experience, complementing a pitching staff that relied heavily on veteran leadership. His postseason track record and ability to handle high-pressure situations made him an asset to the team and a key figure in Texas’ rotation. Hamels’ style—combining strikeout dominance with smart pitching—allowed him to remain effective even late in his career.
Hamels’ career longevity is another hallmark of his Hall of Fame case. Over a decade-long peak from 2007 to 2016, he averaged nearly 200 strikeouts per season and maintained a 3.26 ERA across 316 games, including a no-hitter in 2015. Even after his prime, he continued to provide value with a 3.92 ERA over 83 starts from 2017 to 2019. His consistency and durability were key factors during his years in Texas, helping stabilize the Rangers’ rotation.
As Hamels awaits the announcement of his Hall of Fame fate, his legacy in Texas and across Major League Baseball is secure. Known for strikeouts, clutch postseason performances, and a decade of sustained excellence, Hamels remains one of the most accomplished left-handed pitchers of his generation, with his Rangers tenure standing out as a major chapter in his career.
