ST. LOUIS — Is this finally the year Ted Simmons makes it to Cooperstown?
The former Cardinals catcher is up for induction once again.
Simmons was named to the Modern Era ballot for 2020 induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame. This is Simmons' fourth "second chance" at induction after falling off the BBWAA ballot.
Outfielder Dwight Evans, first baseman Steve Garvey, pitcher Tommy John, first baseman Don Mattingly, union executive Marvin Miller, catcher Thurman Munson, outfielder Dale Murphy, outfielder Dave Parker and second baseman Lou Whitaker were also named to the 2020 Modern Baseball ballot.
Simmons played 21 years in the majors with the Cardinals, Brewers and Braves.
Among catchers all-time, Simmons ranks second in hits, doubles and RBI. He's third all-time in games caught and eleventh in wins above replacement (WAR).
The 16-member Modern Era electorate will be determined later this fall, with the final results of their voting coming in early December.
Any candidate who gets 75 percent of the electorate's vote will be elected to the Hall. Simmons fell just one vote shy the last time he was up for election.