In 1992, Hal Newhouser became the last Tiger with a majority of his major league career in Detroit to enter Baseball’s highest shrine. At age 70, the left-handed hurler had received news that he was considered one of baseball’s greats. While Jim Bunning did receive the call four years later, it was Newhouser’s election that brought great pride for a club about to endure tremendous futility.
Mere days after Newhouse received that announcement, Jack Morris took the opening day ball for the Toronto Blue Jays at Tiger Stadium. This start tied the all-time record for Opening Day starts with 13. On that day – April 6, 1992 – Morris won one of his 254 fabled games. Today, nearly 60 percent of baseball’s writers thought that this, amongst other reasons, was not enough for election into the Hall.
While there will undoubtedly be debate for a long time to come why one player or another should/should not make the Hall of Fame, Morris’ candidacy seems to be a slam dunk. Sure his 3.90 ERA would make him the highest enshrined, but his ability to be the staff ace in an era of increasing hitters for three different World Series champs (4 in total) needs to be recognized. Also in need of recognition – Morris’ Tigers opponent that day – Alan Trammell who went 0-4. Today, Trammell lost a little ground from last season. For another debate, compare Tram’s numbers to those of Ozzie Smith – a first ballot Hall of Famer.
Detroit Tigers ace Jack Morris brings the heat at Tiger Stadium.