Our recent discussions regarding the hall of fame and closers (as well as a smattering of other posts and league chats) has prompted me to propose an idea to the masses for feedback.

I would propose that during the nomination process each owner can nominate 1 player who doesn't technically fit the other criteria (but has retired). This would allow the nomination of a guy who only player 9 ML season, had 6 all-star appearances, won 2 MVP's, etc. It would also allow for the nomination of pure closers who only appear in 40-45 games some seasons as a result of only having that many save opportunities. It also allows for guys who were studs the first few years of the league (perhaps they were 30 when the league was created) and had 6-7 incredible years.

Also, maybe these players are only eligible to be nominate 3 times instead of 5.

Any thoughts?

I think far too many people are concerned with who can be nominated. If every owner votes 5 times and no one gets more than the required minimum of 17 votes, the MOST that can be elected is 9. I think you're going to see 3-4 get elected. The only owner who'll vote for a guy who pitched 40 innings a season for 12 seasons will be the guy who nominated him.

The World Chat will be a great tool for those trying to state their case pro and con. If you can sell us on the player being great, but not putting up numbers because you as an owner chose to deploy him in a certain way, more power to you. Otherwise, well .... the few will get elected anyway.