First base has long been a power position in Hall of Fame discussions, and two active players have resumes that demand serious consideration. Paul Goldschmidt and Freddie Freeman are both on the cusp of baseball immortality, though each has slightly different strengths.
Goldschmidt, the reigning MVP, is nearly a statistical match for the average Hall of Fame first baseman in terms of JAWS and WAR. His career .289/.381/.510 slash line, combined with over 2,000 hits and elite defense, makes him a strong candidate. While he’s not yet a lock, his current trajectory suggests he’ll get there.
Freddie Freeman, fresh off a World Series MVP performance, is also building a case. Freeman leads all active players in hits, doubles, and runs while maintaining a .300 career batting average and a 142 OPS+. With two World Series rings and sustained excellence, it’s hard to imagine him being left out of Cooperstown when his career is over.
