The Shrine of the Eternals is the highest honor bestowed by the Baseball Reliquary, a nonprofit organization dedicated to exploring the intersection of baseball and American culture. Established in 1999, the Shrine offers an alternative to the traditional Hall of Fame by recognizing individuals based on their unique contributions to the game, rather than solely on statistical achievements. The Midnight Library of Baseball podcast episode provides more history on the organization.
Purpose and Philosophy
Unlike the National Baseball Hall of Fame, the Shrine of the Eternals emphasizes the importance of several characteristics of including:
- Distinctiveness of play (whether exemplary or unconventional)
- Uniqueness of character and personality
- Impact on the baseball landscape, including cultural, sociological, and imaginative contributions
Eligibility extends beyond players to include managers, umpires, executives, writers, fans, and even fictional characters who have influenced the game. This inclusive approach aims to provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of baseball’s rich history.
Selection Process
Each year, a screening committee prepares a ballot of candidates. Members of the Baseball Reliquary, including honorary members, vote to elect three individuals to the Shrine. In cases of a tie, more than three inductees may be honored. This process ensures that a wide array of contributors to baseball are recognized.
Notable Inductees
The Shrine has honored a wide range of individuals, such as:
- Pam Postema (2000): One of the first female umpires in professional baseball.
- Shoeless Joe Jackson (2002): White Sox player banned from baseball as a result of the Blacksox scandal of 1919
- Frank Jobe (2012):
2024 Induction Class
In 2024, four individuals were inducted:
- Dusty Baker: Celebrated for his achievements as both a player and manager, including being the first African American manager to reach 2,000 wins.
- Effa Manley: Honored for her role as co-owner of the Newark Eagles and as a pioneering female executive in the Negro Leagues.
- Kim Ng: Acknowledged as the first woman and first Asian American to serve as a general manager in Major League Baseball.
Additional Honors
The Baseball Reliquary also presents other awards:
- Hilda Award: Recognizes distinguished service by a baseball fan.
- Tony Salin Memorial Award: Honors individuals for their work in preserving baseball history.
For more information, including a complete list of inductees and upcoming events, visit the Shrine of the Eternals page.
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