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PLEASE SIGN THE HALL OF FAME PETITION BELOW FOR
ROCKY COLAVITO
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ROCKY COLAVITO
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ROCKY COLAVITO
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Thousands of baseball fans and many analysts believe Rocky Colavito should be in the Hall of Fame. They point to his impressive power hitting statistics, including leading the league in home runs and RBIs, and his strong defensive play, particularly his powerful throwing arm. His career OPS and OPS+ also compare favorably to Hall of Famers from his era. This fan site and petition are dedicated to advocating for his induction.
Here's a more detailed look at why Rocky Colavito should be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Power Hitting: Colavito was a feared slugger, hitting 374 home runs in his career and leading the league in home runs in 1959. He also had seven seasons with 30 or more home runs.
RBI Production: He led the league in RBIs in 1965 and was consistently among the league leaders in that category.
Defense: Colavito was known for his strong throwing arm and was considered an excellent outfielder.
Comparable Statistics: His career OPS (on-base percentage + slugging average) is comparable to some Hall of Famers from his era, and his OPS+ (OPS adjusted for ballpark and league) was sometimes over 180.
Fan Support: Many fan sites and petitions campaign are actively promoting his candidacy 50 plus years after his retirement.
Legacy: Colavito was a beloved figure, especially in Cleveland, and is considered a legend by many fans. He was arguably the number one fan idol of his era.
Rock Colavito was as feared at the plate as Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, Harmon Killebrew, Hank Aaron, Eddie Mathews, Ernie Banks, Willie McCovey, Frank Robinson, Duke Snider, Stan Musial and Carl Yastrzemski during the 1950’s and 1960’s. During his era Colavito either led the league or was near the top in HR’s, RBI’s, Slugging and MVP voting. Rocky had seasons when his OPS and OPS+ were as high as 1.000 plus and 180+. Please add your name to help get Rocky his rightful place in Baseball’s Hall of Fame.
Rocky’s ended his career relatively early. He retired at age 34. For this reason many don’t believe he should be inducted into the HOF, but his first 11 years he was absolutely dynamite as this petition will show. I don’t think he should be penalized because his career ended early.
Rocky Colavito was my favorite Major League ball player as a youth. I actually thought Colavito was already inducted into Baseball’s Hall of Fame years ago. He should have been! Even today Colavito is one of Detroit’s and Cleveland’s favorite players EVER. We can’t believe Colavito was overlooked by Baseball's Hall Of Fame.
I’m 82 years old and I remember all the excitement everyone had when Colavito came to the plate, hitting a HR, or making a great catch and throw in the outfield. In Cleveland and Detroit he was always a top fan favorite. I was there to witness all the greatness Rocky displayed every time he took the field. I witnessed 3 of his HR’s as a youth.
The purpose of this petition is to allow others to see the positives of why Rocky deserves to be inducted into the HOF. If we can get thousands to sign and thousands of comments the Golden Days Era Committee will realize the importance of what Rocky Colavito’s life dream is to all his fans, they will look favorably at inducting Rocky. Not just because of his many fans but what Rocky actually accomplished on the field.
From 1958 thru 1962.. 5 year sequence.. he hit 200 home runs, the MOST in Major League Baseball and averaged 113 RBI’s per year. That feat alone should have got Colavito serious consideration for the Hall Of Fame. He beat out all these great players, Aaron, Mays, Mantle, Mathews and Banks in HR’s ... all in their prime, all HOF members, and all about the same age. Also remember that this was before lowering the pitching mounds and reducing the strike zone to benefit batters after Rocky retired from baseball
Dave Parker and Dick Allen were just recently voted into the Baseball HOF where they belong. Rocky’s career numbers are as good as both of these great players. The Golden Days Era Committee needs to look very closely at Colavito’s career stats and the huge numbers of fan support Colavito has even today, 50 years plus after his retirement.
A man that has songs and books written about him, a statue built after him and now a movie being made about his career deserves to be inducted into the HOF. I think we can convince the ERA Committee to take strong look at Rocky’s career. This petition showing Rocky’s HOF results and fan support should get the job done.
Rocky Colavito fans all over the country are uniting to appeal to the Golden Days Era Committee (Formerly the Veteran's Committee) of the Hall of Fame to recognize Rocky for induction into the Hall even today, 50 years + after his retirement. Please sign this petition (at the right) to the Golden Days Era Committee to help get Rocky his rightful place in the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Ray Beaufait
beau1943@aol.com
WE, the undersigned, believe that Rocky Colavito deserves to be enshrined in the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York. We believe his records during his era are consistent with the criteria established by the Golden Days Era Committee of the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
We have studied Rocky’s career in detail, pointing out why Rocky should have been enshrined as a Hall Of Fame member. We believe all the details presented are accurate and all are HOF qualified reasons your Committee should vote this good man and great player into Baseball’s Hall Of Fame.
Colavito's name is mentioned in the first breath of power hitters: Mantle, Mays, Killebrew, Aaron, Mathews, Banks, McCovey, Frank Robinson, Duke Snider, Musial and Yastrzemski during his era. All of these players are Hall of Famers -- EXCEPT ROCKY COLAVITO!
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The following is a compilation of Rocky’s exceptional career in a nutshell.
1. Rocky was second in Rookie of the year voting in 1956 despite only having 322 at bats with 21 Home Runs.
2. Rocky led the ML in total Home Runs for a five year period of his 13 year career.
3. Rocky led the AL in total Home Runs and total RBI’s for ten years of a 13 year career.
4. Rocky was third in total home runs in the AL of all players in his era at the end of his 13 year career.
5. Rocky was number one in total RBI’s in the AL of all players in his era at the end of his 13 year career.
6. Rocky Colavito finished in the top 10 in American League (AL) home runs during 9 of his 13 seasons (69%). He was in the top 5 in HR 7 times during his 13 year career (54%). This is extremely strong in any era.
7. Rocky’s OPS and OPS+ compare well with present HOF members from his era. Hall Of Fame member’s OPS average is .837, whereas Rocky’s lifetime OPS average was .848, his first 10 years his OPS was .964. HOF members OPS+ average 128 whereas Rocky's number is 132 but was 135 his first 11 years.
8. Rocky was in the top five in MVP voting three times during his career.
9. Rocky was the AL champion in HR’s, RBI’s, XBH's and Slugging during his career.
10. Rocky led the AL twice in Total Bases with over 300 bases both times.
11. Rocky was a 6 times All Star in the AL during his 13 year career.
12. Rocky's average WAR score using the 5/7 method is 5.7. Using the "5/7 method," a WAR season average of 5.7 is an extremely strong Hall of Fame candidate rated as a Superstar.
13. Rocky played a perfect season in the outfield, with a fielding percentage of 1.000.
14. Rocky led the league in putouts five times, in range four times, in fielding runs three times, and in assists twice.
15. Rocky was one of the most loved and popular players in the 1950’s and 60’s.
16. Rocky increased the Cleveland Indians attendance in one year by over 800,000 because of his popularity with the fans.
This petition goes into a detailed compilation about each of the above.
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Colavito was a six-time All-Star playing in 9 all star games and hitting 3 HR’s in All Star competition. He is only the fifth player in the history of the AL to have eleven consecutive 20-home run seasons (1956–1966). He also led the AL in home runs, runs batted in, slugging average and base on balls. Colavito ranked third among AL right-handed hitters for home runs (371).
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From the near beginning of Rocky’s career, 1958 thru 1962..a 5 year sequence of MLB seasons.. he hit 200 home runs, the MOST in Major League Baseball and averaged 113 RBI’s per year. This feat alone should have got Colavito into the Hall Of Fame. He beat out the following greats, Aaron, Mays, Mantle, Mathews, Banks and Killebrew in HR’s during this exact same time period ... all in their prime, ALL NOW IN THE HALL OF FAME, BUT NOT COLAVITO. They ended up in the order below.
1. ***ROCKY COLAVITO 200 home runs
2. Ernie Banks 199 home runs
3. Mickey Mantle 197 home runs
4. Hank Aaron 188 home runs.
5. Eddie Mathews 187 home runs
6. Willie Mays 181 home runs.
7. Harmon Killebrew 167 home runs
Also from 1958 thru 1962 Rocky averaged 113 RBI's per year. Only Ernie Banks (115) and Hank Aaron (118) averaged more. Rocky topped all these great sluggers this 5 year period. Rocky also led all these sluggers or was near the top in HR’s and RBI’s for the FIRST 10 MLB seasons in his career. All these sluggers mentioned are in the Baseball HOF EXCEPT ROCKY COLAVITO.
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Here are the home run totals of the top sluggers in Major Leagues during a same ten year timeframe: The beginning 10 years of Rocky’s remarkable career! Rocky had the third most in the Majors. THIRD IN MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL AFTER 10 STRAIGHT YEARS SHOWING GREAT CONSISTENCY!
1. Willie Mays: 390 (1957-1966)
2. Hank Aaron: 376 (1957-1966)
3. ROCKY COLAVITO 337 (1957-1966)
4. Harmon Killebrew: 327 (1957-1966)
5. Mickey Mantle: 323 (1957-1966)
DURING THIS PERIOD AND ERA (1957-1966), COLAVITO WAS THE AMERICAN LEAGUES LEADING HOME RUN HITTER AND RBI LEADER. 
He achieved eleven consecutive 20-home run seasons and exceeded 30 home runs seven times and 40 home runs three times (1958, 1959, 1961). He also reached 100 RBIs six times within these years (1958, 1959, 1961, 1962, 1964, 1965). Colavito led the American League in home runs in 1959. He also led the American League in RBIs in 1965, and slugging percentage in 1958. This is Hall Of Fame statistics.
During his first 11 seasons in the major leagues, Rocky Colavito averaged 33 home runs per year. He also averaged 97.5 RBI per year during this period.
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Let’s compare Rocky’s HR’s and RBI’s with the great Mickey Mantle from 1957 until 1966 (10 years with both playing in the same era)
HR’s
***Total Colavito Home Runs (1957-1966): 337 HR’s
Total Mantle Home Runs (1957-1966): 323 HR’s
RBI’s
***Total Colavito RBl (1957-1966): 936 RBI’s
Total Mantle RBI (1957-1966): 825 RBI’s
Rocky hit more HR’s and RBI’s than the great Mickey Mantle and all others in the American League already in the HOF. Over this ten year peroid Rocky led the American league in total HR's (337) and Total RBI's (936). Rocky matches up with all the great sluggers during his era.
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Rocky Colavito finished in the top 10 in American League (AL) home runs 9 of his 13 seasons (69%). He was in the top 5 in HR 7 times during his 13 year career (54%). A dominant power hitter of his era, he led the AL in home runs in 1959.
Here is a breakdown of his top 10 AL finishes in home runs:
1957: Finished 6th with 25 home runs.
1958: Finished 2nd with 41 home runs, just one shy of the league leader, Mickey Mantle.
1959: Led the AL with 42 home runs.
1960: Finished 4th with 35 home runs.
1961: Finished 5th with a career-high 45 home runs.
1962: Finished 3rd with 37 home runs.
1964: Finished 4th with 34 home runs.
1965: Finished 5th with 26 home runs.
1966: Finished 6th with 30 home runs.
During Rocky's complete 13 year career he hit 374 HR's and drove in 1159 runs (RBI) In his total career from 1956 - 1968. Rocky was third in HR's with only Mickey Mantle (415) and Harmon Killebrew (393) hitting more HR's in the American League during this period. Rocky during his complete career was number one in RBI's followed by Mickey Mantle (1097) and Harmon Killebrew (998) in the American League.
Rocky ended his career as the top RBI producer in the American League from his rookie year (1956) through 1968. Again this in itself, third in HR's, and first in RBI's for his career should have been enough to enshrined Rocky into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
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Rocky Colavito's on-base plus slugging (OPS) and adjusted OPS (OPS+) from 1957 to 1966 (10 seasons) show a period of tremendous offensive power. OPS measures a player's ability to get on base and hit for power, while OPS+ determines how he rates against the average players.
During this span (1957-1966), Colavito averaged 34 home runs, 102 RBIs, and a 135 OPS+. Which means his play was rated 35% better than the average. Rocky Colavito's on-base plus slugging (OPS) and adjusted OPS (OPS+) from 1957 to 1966 show a period of tremendous offensive power.
As said above Rocky’s OPS+ was 135 during this period. The HOF average is 128. We must also take in consideration that Rocky’s great numbers were all before BASEBALL LOWERED THE PITCHING MOUNDS AND REDUCED THE STRIKE ZONE IN 1969 TO HELP HITTERS. We believe all of this should be taken in consideration and is enough to get Rocky’s career results into the Baseball Hall of Fame?
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Colavito put together MVP-worthy seasons in ’58 and ’59 before Cleveland traded him to Detroit. Many believe he was robbed of the MVP because he played for Cleveland.
His bat was the very best in the majors in ’58, when he hit .303 with a Major League-best .620 slugging percentage. Colavito added 41 homers with 113 RBIs and a 1.024 OPS (180 OPS+) that season.
(180+ indicates a very high level of performance: Having an OPS+ of 180 signifies a player performing 80% or more above the league average, which is considered elite.)
Rocky Colavito's average OPS in his first 10 seasons (1955-1964) was .964, and his average slugging percentage was .502. ALL HOF QUALIFYING NUMBERS. He played his first 10 seasons with the Cleveland Indians, Detroit Tigers, and Kansas City Athletics.
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Rocky was a force to be reckoned with his first 11 years. In 1959, the Cleveland Indians won 89 games and lost 65, finishing 2nd in the American League behind Rocky’s huge success and in 1961 Rocky also led the Detroit Tigers to 101 wins. Detroit finished the season with a record of 101-61 again 2nd to the NY Yankees. His fan base was unbelievably large during his years with Cleveland and Detroit and continues today, 50 years plus after his retirement.
Probably the most telling statistic is his career OPS (on-base percentage + slugging average) compared to players already in the Hall of Fame whose careers overlapped with Colavito's and with the 2008 HOF nominees: Colavito OPS ranks 17th when added to the list of 35 already Hall members of his era. His OPS also ranks AHEAD of the famous Reggie Jackson, Carl Yastrzemski and Roberto Clemente. Colavito was ranked 2nd when applied to the list of 2008 Hall candidates. Rocky was in the top 5 in MVP voting three different years.
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The following is also why Rocky Colavito belongs in the HOF.
Hall Of Fame member’s OPS average is .837, whereas Rocky’s lifetime OPS average was .848, his first 10 years his OPS was .964.
Rocky Colavito hit 374 career HR’s, whereas HOF members averaged 225. He hit 4 consecutive HR’s in one game. Rocky also has the distinction of being the only Major Leaguer to hit 4 home runs on two different days. He almost achieved this rare feat three times.
Hall Of Fame members averaged 1203 RBI’s and averaged 18 year careers, whereas Rocky’s total is 1159 slightly less because his career was only 13 years. Rocky’s average RBI average is higher than the average HOF member. During Rocky's 13 year career he was number one in total RBI in the American League. Number one!
Hall Of Fame member’s SLG percentage average is .468, whereas Rocky’s lifetime SLG average is .489. His SLG average was .502 his first 10 years in the Majors. His best year was 1958 with an Major League leading .620.
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The American League batting averages for all players was .254 in 1958, .253 in 1959, .253 in 1960, .255 in 1961, and .254 in 1962. A five year MLB average of .255. Colavito’s batting average was .274 during this period. Rocky’s average during this period was 19 points higher than the average Major League batting averages. Rocky’s batting average was .270 from 1957-1966. His best three years he hit .303, .290, and .287.
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Rocky possessed arguably the strongest arm of any right fielder of his time. Few runners dared to attempt to stretch hits or advance to 3rd on him. Rocky Colavito shares the MLB record for the highest fielding percentage by an outfielder in a season (1.000), which he achieved in 1965.
Colavito also had a strong fielding record, particularly as a right fielder. Rocky Colavito threw out 16 runners on the bases in one season. He also had an average of 11 runners thrown out per year throughout his career, contributing to his strong defensive performance.
Here's a more detailed look at his fielding achievements:
Perfect Fielding Percentage: In 1965, Colavito played a perfect season in the outfield, with a fielding percentage of 1.000.
Strong Arm: Colavito was known for his powerful arm, that threw out many going for that extra base. He also pitched and won a game pitching.
Defensive Contributions: He led the league in putouts five times, in range four times, in fielding runs three times, and in assists twice.
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The HOF members average years playing are 18. Rocky’s was only 13 and his last two years he was basically a pinch hitter and utility player. Rocky’s first 12 year averages in HR’s and RBI’s are very much HOF worthy for his era. Rocky should not be penalized because his career was a few years shorter. During his era he was always one of the leading hitters in baseball.
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Rocky Colavito significantly impacted attendance for the Cleveland Indians during his time with the team. Many believe he alone saved the Cleveland franchise.1959 Season: His growing popularity helped Cleveland Stadium attendance soar from 663,805 in 1958 to 1,497,976 in 1959. A tremendous increase of 831,171. This suggests a substantial increase attributed to Rocky's presence and popularity.
When Colavito returned to the Indians in 1965, the fans also returned, with attendance rising from 653,295 in 1964 to 934,786 in 1965. This increase of nearly 300,000 demonstrates his drawing power even later in his career.
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His popularity with fans continues as evidenced by the strong reception he receives whenever he appeared in public. Colavito memorabilia remains in demand often outselling many Hall of Fame members' items and his accomplishments are still cited by the press. I am sure Colavito’s memorabilia will outsell most in the HOF if inducted.
In 1976, Rocky was voted the most memorable personality in Cleveland Indians' history. He was elected to the National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame in 1981 and inducted into the Cleveland Indians' Hall of Fame in 2006.
In 2021 a statue of Rocky Colavito was created in Cleveland, Ohio honoring his career and accomplishments. At least two songs and numerous books were created honoring Rocky’s Baseball Career. For these and many more reasons, we encourage you to select and enshrine Rocky Colavito, an exceptional, gifted, and deserving man, into the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
HOF VOTING: Let's see where Rocky stands when evaluating his baseball career for Hall Of Fame requirements.
1. VOTING SHALL BE BASED UPON THE PLAYERS RECORD
A. Five years as the Major Leagues HR leader.
B. Ten years as the top American League HR and RBI leader.
C. 5.7 WAR average using the 5/7 method represents Superstar status.
D. American League season leader in HR, RBI, Slugging, BB, Total Bases twice.
2. PLAYING ABILITY
A. You don't reach superstar status without ability.
3. INTEGRITY
A. Excellent
4. SPORTSMANSHIP
A. Excellent
5. CHARACTER
A. Excellent
6. CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE TEAM AND BASEBALL
A. Increased Cleveland’s attendance by over 800,000 because of fans and popularity.
B. 5.7 seasonal WAR average contribution to teams Cleveland and Detroit leading both to 2nd place finishes against the Mighty Yankees
C. A Statue built, songs and books written, and a movie in development because of Rocky's baseball and fan popularity.
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Colavito died from type 2 diabetes at his home in Bernville, Pennsylvania, on December 10, 2024, at the age of 91.
We believe Rocky’s career stats warrant his entry into the HOF… he is a Cleveland and Detroit legend and household name in Ohio and Michigan … everyone loved The Rock and his career totals and results should be enough for entry into Baseball’s Hall Of Fame.
Thank you,
Rocky Colavito’s Fan Base
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This Rocky Colavito HOF petition was created on April 16, 2025
NATIONAL BASEBALL HALL OF FAME
ATTN: THE GOLDEN DAYS ERA COMMITTEE
25 Main Street
Cooperstown, NY 13326
Email address: registrar@baseballhall.org.
TOLL FREE # 888-425-5633
LOCAL # 607-547-7200
The Hall Of Fame Petition below reads exactly as text above. Please sign giving your approval of Rocky Calavito's induction into The Baseball Hall Of Fame!
PLEASE SIGN THE PETITION BELOW TO GET THE ROCK INDUCTED
INTO BASEBALL'S HALL OF FAME
(Dated April 16, 2025)
Petition created by Ray Beaufait
CLICK HERE FORRocky Colavito's Memorial Slideshow
CLICK HERE FORRocky Colavito's Home Run Videos
Rocky Colavito deserves to be inducted into the Baseball Hall Of Fame. Please sign the petition above (Started April 16, 2025)and make a comment. Click here
More highlights of Colavito's amazing career:
Rocky Colavito, Indianapolis Indians Minor League Team
Rocky Colavito's time with the Indianapolis Indians was a significant part of his career. In 1954, playing for the Indianapolis Indians, he hit 38 home runs and drove in 116 runs, setting a club record for most home runs in a season that still stands. He led the tribe to The 1954 American Association title as well as becoming that league’s most valuable player. He was a key contributor to the team and was remembered as a great player by our fans in the last 75 years.
Transition to Major League:
After his successful stint with Indianapolis, Colavito continued to excel in the Major Leagues, playing for the Cleveland Indians, Detroit Tigers, Kansas City Athletics, Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, and New York Yankees.
Major Leagues:
1956: Rocky clouted 21 HRs, 65 RBIs, 55 runs scored, a Slugging Average of .531 and an OPS of .903 in just 322 At Bats! Rocky finished 2nd in the Rookie of the Year vote.
1957: Rocky collected 25 HRS (6th in AL), 84 RBIs (10th in AL), 51 Extra-Base Hits (7th in AL) and recorded a Slugging Average of .471 (9th in AL). He recorded 7 Sacrifice Flies (5th in AL) while his At Bats per HR mark was 18.4 (5th in AL).
1958: Hit .303 BA, 41 HR, 113 RBI to finish just 1 behind Mickey Mantle for HR lead and finished 3rd in MVP voting. His .620 Slugging Average led the AL and was the highest for an Indians hitter for 36 years until 1994. Rocky lead the AL in extra-base hits with 70. He produced a phenomenal OPS average of 1.025.
1959: Hit .257 BA, 42 HR, 111 RBI to finish 4th in MVP voting. His 42 HRs earned him the AL HR Title. He became the first Indian to amass back-to-back 40 HR seasons (41/42). He led the AL in Total Bases with 301 and in extra-base hits with 66. He became an AL All-Star for the first of six times. 1959: Rocky became only the 8th Major Leaguer to hit 4 HRs in one game on June 10, 1959 in Baltimore. This was only the 3rd time that a Major Leaguer hit them in four consecutive at bats.
1960: Rocky was one of only 17 Major League HR hitters to be chosen to appear on Home Run Derby. On April 17th, in the most controversial trades to this day. Rocky was traded to Detroit for Harvey Kuenn; the AL HR Champion for the AL Batting Champion. Rocky went on to hit 35 HRs and knock in 87 RBIs while batting .249 for the Tigers.
1961: 45 HR, 140 RBIs, 113 Walks, 338 Total Bases, and .982 OPS. Colavito, Kaline and Cash led the Tigers offense to finish second with a 101-61 W/L record. Rocky was chosen as an All-Star for the second time.
1962: 37 HRs and 112 RBIs and a .514 Slugging Average. He lead the AL for the second time in Total Bases with 309 and was chosen for the AL All-Star team for the third time.
1963: Rocky hit 22 HRs and 87 RBIs while hitting .271 BA. Rocky was dealt to the KC Athletics in the off-season.
1964: Rocky hit .274 and collected 31 doubles, 34 HRs and 102 RBIs with a .507 Slugging Average. Selected for the AL All-Star team for the fourth time.
1965: On January 20th, Cleveland made a 3-team trade to get Rocky Colavito back in an Indians uniform. He hit for a solid .287 BA with 26 HRs and was the AL RBI Champion knocking in 108 and became the first AL outfielder in history to complete a perfect 1.000 fielding average season. He finished 5th in MVP voting and was chosen for the AL All-Stars for the fifth time.
1966: His BA fell to .238 but still he produced 30 HRs and 72 RBIs. He ranked in the AL top ten for HRs (6th) and Walks (7th), and was selected to the American League All-Star team for the sixth time.
1967: Rocky started the year with the Indians but was traded to the Chicago White Sox on July 29th. Colavito's numbers dropped in a limited role with Chicago.
1968: Rocky was acquired in the off-season by the Los Angeles Dodgers and served in a limited role. On July 11th, the Dodgers released him. On July 15th, he was signed as a free agent by his boyhood favorite team, the New York Yankees.
PLEASE SIGN THE HALL OF FAME PETITION FOR
ROCKY COLAVITO
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ROCKY COLAVITO
BASEBALL'S HALL OF FAME
Visit Rocky Colavito's Official Website
ROCKY COLAVITO BELONGS IN THE BASEBALL HALL OF FAME
PLEASE SIGN THE PETITION ABOVE - CLICK HERE
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Thousands of baseball fans and many analysts believe Rocky Colavito should be in the Hall of Fame. They point to his impressive power hitting statistics, including leading the league in home runs and RBIs, and his strong defensive play, particularly his powerful throwing arm. His career OPS and OPS+ also compare favorably to Hall of Famers from his era. This fan site and petition are dedicated to advocating for his induction.
Here's a more detailed look at why Rocky Colavito should be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Power Hitting: Colavito was a feared slugger, hitting 374 home runs in his career and leading the league in home runs in 1959. He also had seven seasons with 30 or more home runs.
RBI Production: He led the league in RBIs in 1965 and was consistently among the league leaders in that category.
Defense: Colavito was known for his strong throwing arm and was considered an excellent outfielder.
Comparable Statistics: His career OPS (on-base percentage + slugging average) is comparable to some Hall of Famers from his era, and his OPS+ (OPS adjusted for ballpark and league) was sometimes over 180.
Fan Support: Many fan sites and petitions campaign are actively promoting his candidacy 50 plus years after his retirement.
Legacy: Colavito was a beloved figure, especially in Cleveland, and is considered a legend by many fans. He was arguably the number one fan idol of his era.
Rock Colavito was as feared at the plate as Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, Harmon Killebrew, Hank Aaron, Eddie Mathews, Ernie Banks, Willie McCovey, Frank Robinson, Duke Snider, Stan Musial and Carl Yastrzemski during the 1950’s and 1960’s. During his era Colavito either led the league or was near the top in HR’s, RBI’s, Slugging and MVP voting. Rocky had seasons when his OPS and OPS+ were as high as 1.000 plus and 180+. Please add your name to help get Rocky his rightful place in Baseball’s Hall of Fame.
Rocky’s ended his career relatively early. He retired at age 34. For this reason many don’t believe he should be inducted into the HOF, but his first 11 years he was absolutely dynamite as this petition will show. I don’t think he should be penalized because his career ended early.
Rocky Colavito was my favorite Major League ball player as a youth. I actually thought Colavito was already inducted into Baseball’s Hall of Fame years ago. He should have been! Even today Colavito is one of Detroit’s and Cleveland’s favorite players EVER. We can’t believe Colavito was overlooked by Baseball's Hall Of Fame.
I’m 82 years old and I remember all the excitement everyone had when Colavito came to the plate, hitting a HR, or making a great catch and throw in the outfield. In Cleveland and Detroit he was always a top fan favorite. I was there to witness all the greatness Rocky displayed every time he took the field. I witnessed 3 of his HR’s as a youth.
The purpose of this petition is to allow others to see the positives of why Rocky deserves to be inducted into the HOF. If we can get thousands to sign and thousands of comments the Golden Days Era Committee will realize the importance of what Rocky Colavito’s life dream is to all his fans, they will look favorably at inducting Rocky. Not just because of his many fans but what Rocky actually accomplished on the field.
From 1958 thru 1962.. 5 year sequence.. he hit 200 home runs, the MOST in Major League Baseball and averaged 113 RBI’s per year. That feat alone should have got Colavito serious consideration for the Hall Of Fame. He beat out all these great players, Aaron, Mays, Mantle, Mathews and Banks in HR’s ... all in their prime, all HOF members, and all about the same age. Also remember that this was before lowering the pitching mounds and reducing the strike zone to benefit batters after Rocky retired from baseball
Dave Parker and Dick Allen were just recently voted into the Baseball HOF where they belong. Rocky’s career numbers are as good as both of these great players. The Golden Days Era Committee needs to look very closely at Colavito’s career stats and the huge numbers of fan support Colavito has even today, 50 years plus after his retirement.
A man that has songs and books written about him, a statue built after him and now a movie being made about his career deserves to be inducted into the HOF. I think we can convince the ERA Committee to take strong look at Rocky’s career. This petition showing Rocky’s HOF results and fan support should get the job done.
Rocky Colavito fans all over the country are uniting to appeal to the Golden Days Era Committee (Formerly the Veteran's Committee) of the Hall of Fame to recognize Rocky for induction into the Hall even today, 50 years + after his retirement. Please sign this petition (at the right) to the Golden Days Era Committee to help get Rocky his rightful place in the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Ray Beaufait beau1943@aol.com
WE, the undersigned, believe that Rocky Colavito deserves to be enshrined in the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York. We believe his records during his era are consistent with the criteria established by the Golden Days Era Committee of the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
We have studied Rocky’s career in detail, pointing out why Rocky should have been enshrined as a Hall Of Fame member. We believe all the details presented are accurate and all are HOF qualified reasons your Committee should vote this good man and great player into Baseball’s Hall Of Fame.
Colavito's name is mentioned in the first breath of power hitters: Mantle, Mays, Killebrew, Aaron, Mathews, Banks, McCovey, Frank Robinson, Duke Snider, Musial and Yastrzemski during his era. All of these players are Hall of Famers -- EXCEPT ROCKY COLAVITO!
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The following is a compilation of Rocky’s exceptional career in a nutshell.
1. Rocky was second in Rookie of the year voting in 1956 despite only having 322 at bats with 21 Home Runs.
2. Rocky led the ML in total Home Runs for a five year period of his 13 year career.
3. Rocky led the AL in total Home Runs and total RBI’s for ten years of a 13 year career.
4. Rocky was third in total home runs in the AL of all players in his era at the end of his 13 year career.
5. Rocky was number one in total RBI’s in the AL of all players in his era at the end of his 13 year career.
6. Rocky Colavito finished in the top 10 in American League (AL) home runs during 9 of his 13 seasons (69%). He was in the top 5 in HR 7 times during his 13 year career (54%). This is extremely strong in any era.
7. Rocky’s OPS and OPS+ compare well with present HOF members from his era. Hall Of Fame member’s OPS average is .837, whereas Rocky’s lifetime OPS average was .848, his first 10 years his OPS was .964. HOF members OPS+ average 128 whereas Rocky's number is 132 but was 135 his first 11 years.
8. Rocky was in the top five in MVP voting three times during his career.
9. Rocky was the AL champion in HR’s, RBI’s, XBH's and Slugging during his career.
10. Rocky led the AL twice in Total Bases with over 300 bases both times.
11. Rocky was a 6 times All Star in the AL during his 13 year career.
12. Rocky's average WAR score using the 5/7 method is 5.7. Using the "5/7 method," a WAR season average of 5.7 is an extremely strong Hall of Fame candidate rated as a Superstar.
13. Rocky played a perfect season in the outfield, with a fielding percentage of 1.000.
14. Rocky led the league in putouts five times, in range four times, in fielding runs three times, and in assists twice.
15. Rocky was one of the most loved and popular players in the 1950’s and 60’s.
16. Rocky increased the Cleveland Indians attendance in one year by over 800,000 because of his popularity with the fans.
This petition goes into a detailed compilation about each of the above.
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Colavito was a six-time All-Star playing in 9 all star games and hitting 3 HR’s in All Star competition. He is only the fifth player in the history of the AL to have eleven consecutive 20-home run seasons (1956–1966). He also led the AL in home runs, runs batted in, slugging average and base on balls. Colavito ranked third among AL right-handed hitters for home runs (371).
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From the near beginning of Rocky’s career, 1958 thru 1962..a 5 year sequence of MLB seasons.. he hit 200 home runs, the MOST in Major League Baseball and averaged 113 RBI’s per year. This feat alone should have got Colavito into the Hall Of Fame. He beat out the following greats, Aaron, Mays, Mantle, Mathews, Banks and Killebrew in HR’s during this exact same time period ... all in their prime, ALL NOW IN THE HALL OF FAME, BUT NOT COLAVITO. They ended up in the order below.1. ***ROCKY COLAVITO 200 home runs
2. Ernie Banks 199 home runs
3. Mickey Mantle 197 home runs
4. Hank Aaron 188 home runs.
5. Eddie Mathews 187 home runs
6. Willie Mays 181 home runs.
7. Harmon Killebrew 167 home runs
Also from 1958 thru 1962 Rocky averaged 113 RBI's per year. Only Ernie Banks (115) and Hank Aaron (118) averaged more. Rocky topped all these great sluggers this 5 year period. Rocky also led all these sluggers or was near the top in HR’s and RBI’s for the FIRST 10 MLB seasons in his career. All these sluggers mentioned are in the Baseball HOF EXCEPT ROCKY COLAVITO.
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Here are the home run totals of the top sluggers in Major Leagues during a same ten year timeframe: The beginning 10 years of Rocky’s remarkable career! Rocky had the third most in the Majors. THIRD IN MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL AFTER 10 STRAIGHT YEARS SHOWING GREAT CONSISTENCY!
1. Willie Mays: 390 (1957-1966)
2. Hank Aaron: 376 (1957-1966)
3. ROCKY COLAVITO 337 (1957-1966)
4. Harmon Killebrew: 327 (1957-1966)
5. Mickey Mantle: 323 (1957-1966)
DURING THIS PERIOD AND ERA (1957-1966), COLAVITO WAS THE AMERICAN LEAGUES LEADING HOME RUN HITTER AND RBI LEADER.
He achieved eleven consecutive 20-home run seasons and exceeded 30 home runs seven times and 40 home runs three times (1958, 1959, 1961). He also reached 100 RBIs six times within these years (1958, 1959, 1961, 1962, 1964, 1965). Colavito led the American League in home runs in 1959. He also led the American League in RBIs in 1965, and slugging percentage in 1958. This is Hall Of Fame statistics.
During his first 11 seasons in the major leagues, Rocky Colavito averaged 33 home runs per year. He also averaged 97.5 RBI per year during this period.
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Let’s compare Rocky’s HR’s and RBI’s with the great Mickey Mantle from 1957 until 1966 (10 years with both playing in the same era)
HR’s
***Total Colavito Home Runs (1957-1966): 337 HR’s
Total Mantle Home Runs (1957-1966): 323 HR’s
RBI’s
***Total Colavito RBl (1957-1966): 936 RBI’s
Total Mantle RBI (1957-1966): 825 RBI’s
Rocky hit more HR’s and RBI’s than the great Mickey Mantle and all others in the American League already in the HOF. Over this ten year peroid Rocky led the American league in total HR's (337) and Total RBI's (936). Rocky matches up with all the great sluggers during his era.
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Rocky Colavito finished in the top 10 in American League (AL) home runs 9 of his 13 seasons (69%). He was in the top 5 in HR 7 times during his 13 year career (54%). A dominant power hitter of his era, he led the AL in home runs in 1959.
Here is a breakdown of his top 10 AL finishes in home runs:
1957: Finished 6th with 25 home runs.
1958: Finished 2nd with 41 home runs, just one shy of the league leader, Mickey Mantle.
1959: Led the AL with 42 home runs.
1960: Finished 4th with 35 home runs.
1961: Finished 5th with a career-high 45 home runs.
1962: Finished 3rd with 37 home runs.
1964: Finished 4th with 34 home runs.
1965: Finished 5th with 26 home runs.
1966: Finished 6th with 30 home runs.
During Rocky's complete 13 year career he hit 374 HR's and drove in 1159 runs (RBI) In his total career from 1956 - 1968. Rocky was third in HR's with only Mickey Mantle (415) and Harmon Killebrew (393) hitting more HR's in the American League during this period. Rocky during his complete career was number one in RBI's followed by Mickey Mantle (1097) and Harmon Killebrew (998) in the American League.
Rocky ended his career as the top RBI producer in the American League from his rookie year (1956) through 1968. Again this in itself, third in HR's, and first in RBI's for his career should have been enough to enshrined Rocky into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
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Rocky Colavito's on-base plus slugging (OPS) and adjusted OPS (OPS+) from 1957 to 1966 (10 seasons) show a period of tremendous offensive power. OPS measures a player's ability to get on base and hit for power, while OPS+ determines how he rates against the average players.
During this span (1957-1966), Colavito averaged 34 home runs, 102 RBIs, and a 135 OPS+. Which means his play was rated 35% better than the average. Rocky Colavito's on-base plus slugging (OPS) and adjusted OPS (OPS+) from 1957 to 1966 show a period of tremendous offensive power.
As said above Rocky’s OPS+ was 135 during this period. The HOF average is 128. We must also take in consideration that Rocky’s great numbers were all before BASEBALL LOWERED THE PITCHING MOUNDS AND REDUCED THE STRIKE ZONE IN 1969 TO HELP HITTERS. We believe all of this should be taken in consideration and is enough to get Rocky’s career results into the Baseball Hall of Fame?
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Colavito put together MVP-worthy seasons in ’58 and ’59 before Cleveland traded him to Detroit. Many believe he was robbed of the MVP because he played for Cleveland.
His bat was the very best in the majors in ’58, when he hit .303 with a Major League-best .620 slugging percentage. Colavito added 41 homers with 113 RBIs and a 1.024 OPS (180 OPS+) that season.
(180+ indicates a very high level of performance: Having an OPS+ of 180 signifies a player performing 80% or more above the league average, which is considered elite.)
Rocky Colavito's average OPS in his first 10 seasons (1955-1964) was .964, and his average slugging percentage was .502. ALL HOF QUALIFYING NUMBERS. He played his first 10 seasons with the Cleveland Indians, Detroit Tigers, and Kansas City Athletics.
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Rocky was a force to be reckoned with his first 11 years. In 1959, the Cleveland Indians won 89 games and lost 65, finishing 2nd in the American League behind Rocky’s huge success and in 1961 Rocky also led the Detroit Tigers to 101 wins. Detroit finished the season with a record of 101-61 again 2nd to the NY Yankees. His fan base was unbelievably large during his years with Cleveland and Detroit and continues today, 50 years plus after his retirement.
Probably the most telling statistic is his career OPS (on-base percentage + slugging average) compared to players already in the Hall of Fame whose careers overlapped with Colavito's and with the 2008 HOF nominees: Colavito OPS ranks 17th when added to the list of 35 already Hall members of his era. His OPS also ranks AHEAD of the famous Reggie Jackson, Carl Yastrzemski and Roberto Clemente. Colavito was ranked 2nd when applied to the list of 2008 Hall candidates. Rocky was in the top 5 in MVP voting three different years.
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The following is also why Rocky Colavito belongs in the HOF.
Hall Of Fame member’s OPS average is .837, whereas Rocky’s lifetime OPS average was .848, his first 10 years his OPS was .964.
Rocky Colavito hit 374 career HR’s, whereas HOF members averaged 225. He hit 4 consecutive HR’s in one game. Rocky also has the distinction of being the only Major Leaguer to hit 4 home runs on two different days. He almost achieved this rare feat three times.
Hall Of Fame members averaged 1203 RBI’s and averaged 18 year careers, whereas Rocky’s total is 1159 slightly less because his career was only 13 years. Rocky’s average RBI average is higher than the average HOF member. During Rocky's 13 year career he was number one in total RBI in the American League. Number one!
Hall Of Fame member’s SLG percentage average is .468, whereas Rocky’s lifetime SLG average is .489. His SLG average was .502 his first 10 years in the Majors. His best year was 1958 with an Major League leading .620.
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The American League batting averages for all players was .254 in 1958, .253 in 1959, .253 in 1960, .255 in 1961, and .254 in 1962. A five year MLB average of .255. Colavito’s batting average was .274 during this period. Rocky’s average during this period was 19 points higher than the average Major League batting averages. Rocky’s batting average was .270 from 1957-1966. His best three years he hit .303, .290, and .287.
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Rocky possessed arguably the strongest arm of any right fielder of his time. Few runners dared to attempt to stretch hits or advance to 3rd on him. Rocky Colavito shares the MLB record for the highest fielding percentage by an outfielder in a season (1.000), which he achieved in 1965.
Colavito also had a strong fielding record, particularly as a right fielder. Rocky Colavito threw out 16 runners on the bases in one season. He also had an average of 11 runners thrown out per year throughout his career, contributing to his strong defensive performance.
Here's a more detailed look at his fielding achievements:
Perfect Fielding Percentage: In 1965, Colavito played a perfect season in the outfield, with a fielding percentage of 1.000.
Strong Arm: Colavito was known for his powerful arm, that threw out many going for that extra base. He also pitched and won a game pitching.
Defensive Contributions: He led the league in putouts five times, in range four times, in fielding runs three times, and in assists twice.
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The HOF members average years playing are 18. Rocky’s was only 13 and his last two years he was basically a pinch hitter and utility player. Rocky’s first 12 year averages in HR’s and RBI’s are very much HOF worthy for his era. Rocky should not be penalized because his career was a few years shorter. During his era he was always one of the leading hitters in baseball.
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Rocky Colavito significantly impacted attendance for the Cleveland Indians during his time with the team. Many believe he alone saved the Cleveland franchise.1959 Season: His growing popularity helped Cleveland Stadium attendance soar from 663,805 in 1958 to 1,497,976 in 1959. A tremendous increase of 831,171. This suggests a substantial increase attributed to Rocky's presence and popularity.
When Colavito returned to the Indians in 1965, the fans also returned, with attendance rising from 653,295 in 1964 to 934,786 in 1965. This increase of nearly 300,000 demonstrates his drawing power even later in his career.
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His popularity with fans continues as evidenced by the strong reception he receives whenever he appeared in public. Colavito memorabilia remains in demand often outselling many Hall of Fame members' items and his accomplishments are still cited by the press. I am sure Colavito’s memorabilia will outsell most in the HOF if inducted.
In 1976, Rocky was voted the most memorable personality in Cleveland Indians' history. He was elected to the National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame in 1981 and inducted into the Cleveland Indians' Hall of Fame in 2006.
In 2021 a statue of Rocky Colavito was created in Cleveland, Ohio honoring his career and accomplishments. At least two songs and numerous books were created honoring Rocky’s Baseball Career. For these and many more reasons, we encourage you to select and enshrine Rocky Colavito, an exceptional, gifted, and deserving man, into the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
HOF VOTING: Let's see where Rocky stands when evaluating his baseball career for Hall Of Fame requirements.
1. VOTING SHALL BE BASED UPON THE PLAYERS RECORD
A. Five years as the Major Leagues HR leader.
B. Ten years as the top American League HR and RBI leader.
C. 5.7 WAR average using the 5/7 method represents Superstar status.
D. American League season leader in HR, RBI, Slugging, BB, Total Bases twice.
2. PLAYING ABILITY A. You don't reach superstar status without ability.
3. INTEGRITY
A. Excellent
4. SPORTSMANSHIP
A. Excellent
5. CHARACTER
A. Excellent
6. CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE TEAM AND BASEBALL
A. Increased Cleveland’s attendance by over 800,000 because of fans and popularity.
B. 5.7 seasonal WAR average contribution to teams Cleveland and Detroit leading both to 2nd place finishes against the Mighty Yankees
C. A Statue built, songs and books written, and a movie in development because of Rocky's baseball and fan popularity.
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Colavito died from type 2 diabetes at his home in Bernville, Pennsylvania, on December 10, 2024, at the age of 91.
We believe Rocky’s career stats warrant his entry into the HOF… he is a Cleveland and Detroit legend and household name in Ohio and Michigan … everyone loved The Rock and his career totals and results should be enough for entry into Baseball’s Hall Of Fame.
Thank you,
Rocky Colavito’s Fan Base
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This Rocky Colavito HOF petition was created on April 16, 2025
NATIONAL BASEBALL HALL OF FAME
ATTN: THE GOLDEN DAYS ERA COMMITTEE
25 Main Street
Cooperstown, NY 13326
Email address: registrar@baseballhall.org.
TOLL FREE # 888-425-5633
LOCAL # 607-547-7200
The Hall Of Fame Petition below reads exactly as text above. Please sign giving your approval of Rocky Calavito's induction into The Baseball Hall Of Fame!
PLEASE SIGN THE PETITION BELOW TO GET THE ROCK INDUCTED
INTO BASEBALL'S HALL OF FAME
(Dated April 16, 2025)Petition created by Ray Beaufait
Rocky Colavito's Memorial SlideshowCLICK HERE FORRocky Colavito's Home Run Videos |
Rocky Colavito deserves to be inducted into the Baseball Hall Of Fame. Please sign the petition above (Started April 16, 2025)and make a comment. Click here
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