Former Cleveland Indians General Manager Named to Hall of Fame Ballot

Former Cleveland general manager Hank Peters was one of the catalysts of the team's dynasty in the 1990s.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum announced their Class of 2024 ballot on Thursday for the Era Committee for Managers/Executives/Umpires to consider.

One of the eight names on the ballot, Hank Peters, who passed away in 2015, had a rich history with the Cleveland now-Guardians.

He served a myriad of roles with the team from 1966 to 1971. Peters was Cleveland’s farm director (1966), assistant general manager (1967-69), and scouting director (1970-71).

During this time, Peters suggested to then-Cleveland owner Vernon Stouffer to enhance the team’s player development system. However, Stouffer refused.

Peters then went to the Baltimore Orioles in 1975. After serving as their general manager, leading the Orioles to two American League pennants (1979 and 1983) and a World Series title in 1983, Peters eventually found his way back to Cleveland following the 1987 season.

This time, he would be the team’s general manager. When he came to Cleveland, he was joined by eventual Cleveland general manager John Hart and eventual Cleveland assistant general manager Dan O’Dowd. These two would lead the team to AL pennants in 1995 and 1997.

In his second stint with Cleveland, Peters got his wish from ownership when then-owner Dick Jacobs agreed to enhance the team’s player development system. 

This greatly paid off for Cleveland, as they developed talent like National Baseball Hall of Famer Jim Thome, Guardians Hall of Famer Manny Ramírez, and All-Star starting pitcher Charles Nagy.

Aug 26, 2011; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Indians designated hitter Jim Thome (25) bats during the first inning against the Kansas City Royals at Progressive Field / © David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

Peters also made one of the most impactful trades in Cleveland history, acquiring eventual All-Stars Carlos Baerga and Sandy Alomar, Jr. from the San Diego Padres for Joe Carter.

Cleveland fans will find out if Peters is elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame on Sunday, December 3rd at 7:30 PM on MLB Network.