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Jones, Beltran, Kent inducted into Hall of Fame

ESPN MLB •
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Andruw Jones, Carlos Beltran, and Jeff Kent were inducted into the Hall of Fame on Sunday, joining baseball's fraternity of greats. Each player delivered speeches filled with gratitude, acknowledging those who supported their journeys.

Beltran, the sixth Hall of Famer from Puerto Rico, represented the Mets and received loud cheers from fans from both New York and his homeland. He highlighted his role as an ambassador for Puerto Rico through his baseball academy. Beltran's career accomplishments include 400 homers, 300 steals, and three Gold Gloves. He credited Hall of Famer George Brett for guidance and the Mets for shaping his life.

Jones became the first player from Curacao to reach the Hall, honoring Hensley Meulens as a pioneer. He cited Ken Griffey Jr. and Willie Mays as inspirations, aiming to emulate their center-field prowess, and went on to win 10 consecutive Gold Gloves.

Kent, the 2000 NL MVP, shared lessons learned from Hall of Famer Eddie Murray and Tommy Lasorda, emphasizing simplicity and the importance of RBIs. He retired with 377 career home runs, 351 as a second baseman, and 1,518 RBIs, a record for a middle infielder. Kent concluded with a hopeful message about the enduring appeal and unity of baseball.