You would not think that an eleven-time All-Star would be forgotten among Hall of Fame consideration, but in the case of career-long Detroit Tiger, Bill Freehan that appears to be the reality.
Bill Freehan gained a lot of respect among Major League players. He may not have been a huge force with his bat (though he did have a few respectable seasons), but he was among the best in handling a pitching staff and the defensive roles of a professional catcher. It was primarily through these attributes that Freehan gained as much MVP support as he did, as he was a serious contender in two seasons. Freehan may not have won the MVP, but he did win the Gold Glove five times and was an All-Star eleven times.
Bill Freehan was never a regular in any top ten offensive categories, but few catchers were when he played. He did more than most at that position, and as such, a great overall ballplayer, it is curious that the respect he got in terms of postseason awards did not translate into a larger Hall of Fame vote.
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