Smith and Dawson join elite group on Hall ballot

The Cubs franchise hopes to hear more good news in the New Year. Former Cubs, Andre Dawson and Lee Smith find their names on this year's ballot for the Hall of Fame. Being elected will be a moment for them to be cherish forever. They need a favorable majority vote of over 60% to get elected and join teammate Bruce Sutter. These guys wore Cub uniforms with pride and the fans adored them. Lee Smith compiled 478 career saves. He had the record until the Padres' Trevor Hoffman surpassed the mark back in September.

I know there are several respectable, presitigous names on the ballot. Honestly, I think if Jim Rice gets in so should Andre Dawson. Their careers were similar (both also never acquring a World Series title), they hit for power and had strong arms in the outfield. I remember footage on Dawson throwing out a runner at first on a bouncing single to right field. That was amazing, you never see that anymore! The Hawk also finished his career with over 500 dingers and 1,000 RBIs. That has to be weighed in while deliberating his entry into the Hall. Most likely, it will come down to a close difference for the former Cub stars. They'll still get a second chance on the next ballot if they don't get elected.