Quote:
Originally Posted by Always Red
4 years (1963-1966) did it for Sandy Koufax. But man, were they great years. 
I don't think Foster belongs in the HoF, as much as I like him. Reds HoF, for a fine career, suits him just fine. |
Somewhat true.
The only reason Koufax's run did not extend further is that he retired young (30) due to injury. Basically, he was also voted in because of what could have happened, such as Addie Joss (imagine the number he could have put up...).
Foster, on the other hand, continued his career for quite a while after his monster run - much of it being injury free, I believe, though the '81 strike did rob him of potentially another large year.
Foster's number decline came mostly due to age (his numbers drop off significantly after 33), and arguably a departure from Cincinnati and appearance with the Mets.
Baseball reference compares his stats to Gil Hodges, Willy Horton, Tino Martinez, Jack Clark and Del Ennis. Five very good players, but none are quite HOF caliber.