Carlos Beltrán

Carlos Beltrán, a highly respected figure in Major League Baseball, garnered recognition throughout his career with nine All-Star appearances from 2004 to 2016. With a significant role in public events like the World Baseball Classic, Beltrán represented Puerto Rico and his diverse accomplishments include tying the Mets' single-season home run record and setting the franchise record for runs scored in a season. In 2017, his career peaked when he became a World Series champion with the Houston Astros. His career also witnessed a significant trade to the San Francisco Giants in 2011 where he waived his no-trade clause.

Beltrán's skills were not just confined to his offensive performance, but extended to his defensive excellence as well, recognized by his three Gold Glove Awards from 2006 to 2008. He also received two Silver Slugger Awards in 2006 and 2007. His career stats are impressive, becoming the first switch-hitter in major league history to attain 300 home runs and 300 stolen bases. He is in the elite group of players to have 2,500 hits, 400 home runs, 300 stolen bases, and 1,000 walks, joining the ranks of Willie Mays, Barry Bonds, and Alex Rodriguez. His contribution to Major League Baseball was further acknowledged when he was selected as the starting center fielder for the 50th Anniversary Mets All-Time Team in 2012.

Post-retirement, Beltrán has remained actively involved in baseball-related activities, which include serving as a special advisor to the general manager of the New York Yankees and being a part of the Mets front office. Despite parting ways before managing a game, his stint as the manager for the New York Mets and his work as a game analyst for the YES Network in 2022, has enriched his extensive experience and knowledge of the game. Notably, Beltrán was elected into the Baseball Hall of Fame on January 20, 2026, with more than 80% of judges voting for him, solidifying his place as a true legend of the sport.