Last January, the Baseball Hall of Fame announced the Class of 2026, and for us at Notinhalloffame.com, this means it is time to revise the list of those to consider for the Hall.
At present, it is a work in progress, as we have multiple projects underway (including prepping the ballot for the 2026 United States Athletic Hall of Fame), but we are also slowly working on the Baseball Hall revision.
Our revisions take into account the following:
Simple, right?
As this is a work in progress, the section is under construction, but we will keep you apprised of the changes as we go.
The entire list (again, it is under construction) is here, but in the meantime, here is the revised 126-150:
126. Luis Gonzalez
127. Ron Cey
128. Firpo Marberry
129. Cupid Childs
130. Roy Oswalt
131. Johnny Sain
132. Willie Davis
133. Vern Stephens
134. George Uhle
135. Cliff Lee
136. Johnny Damon
137. Cesar Cedeno
138. Dennis Martinez
139. Tommy Bridges
140. Jamie Moyer
141. Al Dark
142. Jose Cruz
143. Dizzy Trout
144. Mel Harder
145. Jimmy Sheckard
146. Sam McDowell
147. Camilo Pascual
148. Silver King
149. Nomar Garicaparra
150. Jorge Posada
Look for more updates soon.
Yes, we know that this is taking a while!
As many of you know, we at Notinhalloffame.com are slowly generating the top 50 of each major North American sports team. That being said, we maintain and update our existing Top 50 lists annually. We are pleased to present our pre-2026 revision of our top 50 Philadelphia Phillies.
As for all of our top 50 players in baseball, we look at the following:
1. Duration and Impact.
2. Traditional statistics and how they finished in the Major League Baseball.
3. Advanced Statistics.
4. Playoff performance.
5. Their respective legacy on the team.
6. How successful the team was when he was there.
7. Respecting the era in which they played.
Criteria 1-4 will make up the lion’s share of the algorithm. Please note that we have implemented this for the first time. This has changed the rankings all throughout the board.
Last year, the Phillies finished the year with a 96-66 record, which was good enough to win the National League East. However, they were bounced immediately in four games in the Divisional Round by the eventual champions, the Los Angeles Dodgers. There was one new entrant and three elevations based on the 2025 season.
As always, we present our top five, which remains unchanged.
1. Mike Schmidt
2. Robin Roberts
3. Steve Carlton
4. Ed Delahanty
5. Pete Alexander
You can find the entire list here.
Pitcher Zack Wheeler had a huge jump from #31 to #17. He was an All-MLB 2 Selection last year.
Notably, another active pitcher, Aaron Nola, did not move up from last season’s #22 rank.
Bryce Harper climbed up four spots to #30.
Catcher, J.T. Realmuto, went to #43 from #48.
Celebrated slugger Kyle Schwarber makes his debut on the list, coming in at #50. This knocked Carlos Ruiz off the Top 50.
We thank you for your continued support of our lists on Notinhalloffame.com.
1996 SEMI-FINAL RESULTS:
Thank you for your participation in the Pro Football Hall of Fame Revisited Project. If you are unaware of what that is, we acted like the PFHOF had its first class in January 1946.
We have completed the years up to 1995.
For “1996,” a Preliminary Vote with nearly 100 players whose playing career ended by 1990. We also follow the structure in which players have 20 years of eligibility, and if they do not make it into the Hall, they are relegated to the Senior Pool.
Each voter was asked to select 25 names from the preliminary list, and the top 25 vote-getters were named Semi-Finalists.
A week later, the voters were asked to pick 15 names from the 25 Semi-Finalists, and next week, they will choose five from the remaining 15. We will continue this process every week until we catch up to the current year.
31 votes were cast, with the top 15 advancing.
This is for the “Modern Era”
Bold indicates they advanced to the Finals:
|
Player |
Year of Eligibility |
Vote Total |
|
Mike Webster C |
1 |
27 |
|
Claude Humphrey DE |
10 |
25 |
|
Ozzie Newsome TE |
1 |
25 |
|
Ray Guy P |
5 |
24 |
|
Kenny Easley DB |
4 |
23 |
|
Charlie Joiner WR |
5 |
19 |
|
John Stallworth WR |
4 |
19 |
|
L.C. Greenwood DE |
10 |
18 |
|
Ken Stabler QB |
7 |
18 |
|
Dick LeBeau DB |
19 |
17 |
|
Dave Robinson LB |
17 |
17 |
|
Cliff Branch WR |
6 |
17 |
|
Bob Kuechenberg G-T-C |
8 |
16 |
|
Donnie Shell DB |
4 |
15 |
|
Dan Hampton DE-DET |
1 |
15 |
|
Chris Hanburger LB |
13 |
13 |
|
Cliff Harris S |
12 |
11 |
|
Bob Griese QB |
11 |
11 |
|
Otis Taylor WR-FL |
16 |
10 |
|
Lemar Parrish DB |
9 |
10 |
|
Lester Hayes DB |
5 |
10 |
|
Louis Wright DB |
5 |
10 |
|
Drew Pearson WR |
8 |
9 |
|
*Dick Schafrath T-G-DE |
20 |
8 |
|
Ken Anderson QB |
5 |
8 |
|
Joe Klecko DE-NT |
3 |
7 |
This is for the “Senior Era”
*Bold indicates they advanced to the Finals:
|
Player |
Year of Eligibility |
Vote Total |
|
Les Richter LB-C |
9 |
15 |
|
Gino Cappelletti FL-SE-DB-WR-K |
1 |
15 |
|
Pat Harder FB |
18 |
14 |
|
Arch Ward CONTRIBUTOR |
7 |
10 |
|
Art Powell E |
3 |
8 |
|
Alan Ameche FB |
11 |
7 |
|
Tank Younger FB-LB-HB |
13 |
6 |
|
None of the Above |
2 |
This is for the “Coaches/Contributors Era”
*Bold indicates they advanced to the Finals:
|
Player |
Year of Eligibility |
Vote Total |
|
OWNER: Ralph Wilson |
5 |
20 |
|
SCOUT: Gil Brandt |
4 |
15 |
|
SCOUT: Bill Nunn |
2 |
13 |
|
EXECUTIVE: Jim Finks |
6 |
12 |
|
SCOUT: Eddie Kotal |
1 |
8 |
|
None of the Above |
2 |
We will post the Class of 1996 Pro Football Hall of Fame Revisited Project next Saturday.
Thank you to all who contributed. If you want to be part of this project, please let us know!
Creating a welcoming backyard space has evolved far beyond a simple grill and patio set. Today, homeowners are transforming outdoor areas into fully functional entertainment hubs that rival indoor living spaces. Whether hosting casual weekend gatherings or larger celebrations, the right upgrades can elevate a backyard into a destination where guests feel comfortable, engaged, and eager to return.
Thoughtful design and strategic enhancements make all the difference in how a space looks and functions. From seating arrangements to technology integration, each element plays a role in shaping a memorable hosting experience that balances comfort, style, and practicality.
Creating Comfortable and Versatile Seating Areas
A well-designed seating layout is the foundation of any successful outdoor gathering space. Guests naturally gravitate toward areas where they can relax and connect, so comfort should be a priority. Investing in high-quality outdoor furniture—such as cushioned sectionals, lounge chairs, and modular seating—allows for flexibility in accommodating different group sizes.
Arranging seating in clusters rather than long rows encourages conversation and creates a more intimate atmosphere. Including a mix of furniture types, such as dining tables alongside casual lounge areas, gives guests options depending on their preferences and the nature of the event.
Shade is another important consideration. Pergolas, umbrellas, or covered patios help maintain a comfortable environment during sunny afternoons, while also adding visual appeal. Incorporating layered lighting—such as string lights, lanterns, or built-in fixtures—extends usability into the evening and enhances ambiance.
Versatility is key when designing a space that will host a variety of gatherings. Furniture that can be easily rearranged or repurposed ensures the backyard remains adaptable and functional.
Upgrading Outdoor Cooking and Dining Experiences
Food is often at the center of any gathering, making outdoor cooking areas a high-impact upgrade. While a standard grill may suffice for smaller gatherings, more elaborate setups can significantly enhance the hosting experience.
Outdoor kitchens, complete with prep stations, storage, and built-in appliances, allow hosts to prepare meals without stepping away from guests. Features such as pizza ovens, smokers, and beverage coolers can add variety and convenience, making entertaining more seamless.
Dining spaces should be designed with both comfort and style in mind. Durable materials that withstand weather conditions while maintaining a polished appearance are essential. Large dining tables paired with comfortable seating encourage guests to linger and enjoy the experience.
Details like table settings, outdoor-safe dinnerware, and coordinated décor contribute to a cohesive look. Even small touches—such as fresh herbs on the table or thoughtfully arranged serving stations—can elevate the overall atmosphere and make gatherings feel more intentional.
Integrating Entertainment Technology Outdoors
Technology has become an increasingly important element in outdoor entertainment spaces. Whether it is streaming music, watching sports, or hosting movie nights under the stars, integrating the right equipment can significantly enhance the guest experience.
Audio systems designed for outdoor use provide clear sound without overwhelming the space. Strategically placed speakers ensure even coverage, allowing music or audio to complement the environment rather than dominate it.
Visual entertainment has also gained popularity in backyard settings. Installing screens or projectors makes it possible to create a cinematic experience outdoors. Protecting these investments is essential, which is why solutions like a residential outdoor tv enclosure are often used to safeguard equipment from weather conditions while maintaining functionality.
Smart home integration can further enhance convenience. With the ability to control lighting, sound, and temperature from a mobile device, hosts can easily adjust settings without interrupting the flow of the event. This level of control allows for a smoother, more enjoyable experience for both hosts and guests.
Enhancing Ambiance with Fire and Water Features
Incorporating natural elements into a backyard design can significantly impact its overall feel. Fire and water features add both visual interest and sensory appeal, creating an environment that feels dynamic and inviting.
Fire pits and outdoor fireplaces serve as natural gathering points, providing warmth and a cozy atmosphere during cooler evenings. They encourage conversation and can extend the usability of the space well into the night. Built-in options often offer a more polished look, while portable fire pits provide flexibility.
Water features, such as fountains or small ponds, introduce a calming element that contrasts beautifully with the liveliness of social gatherings. The sound of flowing water can create a relaxing backdrop, helping to balance energy levels within the space.
Combining these elements thoughtfully ensures they complement rather than overwhelm the setting. When integrated into the overall design, they contribute to a cohesive and immersive environment that enhances the hosting experience.
Incorporating Activities and Interactive Elements
An engaging backyard entertainment space goes beyond passive relaxation. Including interactive elements ensures guests remain entertained and engaged throughout the event.
Lawn games, such as cornhole, bocce ball, or giant board games, provide casual entertainment that encourages participation across various age groups. For families, incorporating play areas for children can make gatherings more inclusive and enjoyable for everyone.
For more structured entertainment, consider designated activity zones. This could include a small stage area for live music, a bar setup for mixing drinks, or a game station featuring outdoor-friendly options. These additions create focal points that draw guests in and keep the energy of the event lively.
Seasonal adaptability also plays a role. Features that can transition across different times of the year—such as heaters for cooler months or misting systems for warmer weather—ensure the space remains functional regardless of conditions.
By offering a mix of relaxation and activity, hosts can cater to diverse preferences and create a more dynamic experience for their guests.
Conclusion
Transforming a backyard into the ultimate hosting space requires a combination of thoughtful design, functional upgrades, and attention to detail. By focusing on comfort, enhancing dining and entertainment options, and creating an inviting atmosphere, homeowners can craft an environment that encourages connection and enjoyment. With the right balance of style and practicality, outdoor spaces become more than just extensions of the home—they become central gathering places where memorable experiences unfold.