Cole Hamels with Steve Gardner

Jim is joined by USA TODAY sports reporter and Hall of Fame voter Steve Gardner to break down the HOF candidacy of former pitcher Cole Hamels. First, Steve and Jim cover just how devastating Hamels' changeup was throughout his career (9:42). Next, they discuss his historic 2008 postseason performance, compare Hamels career to CC Sabathia, and debate who the best starting pitcher is on the 2026 HOF ballot (15:01). Finally, Steve and Jim determine what tier of pitcher Hamels belongs to in the 21st Century (42:20), before making a final call on whether or not they believe Hamels deserves a plaque in Cooperstown (48:30).