A historic homecoming for baseball’s elite
The upcoming weekend in Cooperstown marks a milestone for baseball history, as a record 58 members of the Hall of Fame are expected to return to the village between July 24 and 27. This gathering brings together legends from every era, creating a rare opportunity for fans and scholars to celebrate the sport’s deepest roots in one place.
At the heart of the festivities is the induction of the Class of 2026, which includes Carlos Beltrán, Andruw Jones and Jeff Kent. The induction ceremony will take place on Sunday, July 26, beginning at 1:30 p.m. Eastern, and will be broadcast live on MLB Network, allowing viewers worldwide to share in the moment.
Admission to the July 26 induction ceremony is free, inviting community members and visitors alike to witness the ceremony in person at the Hall of Fame’s historic venue. The open‑access policy underscores the event’s purpose as a public celebration of the game’s legacy.
Awards that honor the game’s pillars
The weekend’s schedule also includes the Hall of Fame Awards Presentation on Saturday, July 25, at 3 p.m. in the Alice Busch Opera Theater. Joe Buck will receive the Ford C. Frick Award for his outstanding contributions to baseball broadcasting, while Paul Hoynes will be presented with the Baseball Writers' Association of America’s Career Excellence Award for meritorious contributions to baseball writing.
Bill White will be honored with the Buck O'Neil Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his lifelong dedication to the sport, and Rick Monday will be commemorated on the 50th anniversary of his heroic rescue of the American flag at Dodger Stadium, a moment that remains etched in baseball lore.