In a moment marked by immense joy and emotion, the family and supporters of Dick Allen celebrated his long-awaited election into the Baseball Hall of Fame this week. The announcement, made during the Winter Meetings at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas, came courtesy of the Classic Baseball Era Committee and was met with tears and exuberance as Allen’s legacy on the field was finally immortalized.
The celebration, described as one of the best moments by Hall of Fame pitcher Rich “Goose” Gossage, focused solely on the recognition of Allen, a standout player from 1963 to 1977. His name surfaced first during the announcement, a result of the alphabetic listing of candidates, and was promptly drowned out by the outpouring of happiness from those who loved him.
“It was like a pimple being popped,” remarked Richard Allen Jr., Dick Allen’s son, who spoke on behalf of the family. The relief and excitement were palpable as decades of anticipation came to a head. Allen Jr. emphasized the worth of the wait, noting, “It just makes it that much more exciting. Just waiting that long. But man, this is a long time coming.”
Allen, along with Dave Parker, was on the eight-person ballot for candidates whose primary contributions occurred before 1980. Both surpassed the 75 percent voting threshold required, with Parker receiving 14 votes and Allen 13. Allen, notably, missed out on this honor in both 2015 and 2022 by only one vote before this pivotal recognition.
For the Allen family, the recognition of going into the Hall alongside Parker holds special significance, particularly due to the friendship between Dick Allen and Dave Parker. Allen Jr. shared memories of visiting the stadium, emphasizing the bond between the two men. “He really enjoyed him,” Allen Jr. expressed, recalling a personal keepsake given by Parker, a glove marked ‘Cobra 39.’
During his career, Allen was primarily known as a first baseman and third baseman. He initially appeared on the Baseball Writers’ Association of America Hall of Fame ballot in 1983. His career moment in the spotlight includes his tenure with the Chicago White Sox from 1972 to 1974, where he significantly boosted team attendance and performance.
During the 1972 season, Allen achieved the American League Most Valuable Player award, hitting .308, with 37 home runs, 113 RBIs, and an OPS of 1.023, in addition to stealing 19 bases. He narrowly missed the Triple Crown. Allen’s impact extended beyond statistics; his contribution to the revitalization of the White Sox franchise was underscored by former general manager Roland Hemond, who reportedly told Allen Jr., “Your father saved the franchise.”
Whether Allen’s Hall of Fame plaque will feature a cap representing the White Sox or the Phillies remains uncertain. However, his affiliation with the White Sox was particularly special. Allen’s affection for Chicago and its fans was profound, marking a highlight in his career that was both transformative for the player and the franchise.
Reflecting on Allen’s extraordinary career and his posthumous recognition, his family and fans remember him not just for his remarkable athleticism but for his lasting influence on and off the field. His legacy continues to inspire those who witnessed his contributions to the game of baseball.
The induction of Dick Allen into the Baseball Hall of Fame marks a significant and deserved recognition of his contributions to baseball. His family’s heartfelt celebration serves as a testament to his impact as a player and a treasured individual in the baseball community. Allen’s story is one of perseverance and talent, highlighting a career that inspired many and significantly shaped the history of the sport.
Source: Mlb
