It’s time for the baseball Hall of Fame debates to begin. From now until the results are announced, FanIQ will be taking a look at this year’s major candidates. Up next: Tommy John.

Better known for the surgery now named in his honor, Tommy John amassed an impressive 288 wins during a career that spanned from his debut with the Cleveland Indians in 1963, to stops with the Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, California Angels, Oakland Athletics and end with the New York Yankees in 1989. His career stats have been reviewed here.

Pros For Induction
He has a very influential and successful elbow surgery named after him that has saved numerous pitching careers. Isn't that good enough? Turns out there are many more accomplishments that should define Tommy John's career. John recorded 288 career wins, good enough for 25th all-time and 6th best for left handers. That's the most wins of any pitcher not in the HOF. He was a four-time all-star that led the AL in shutouts on three occasions: '66, '67 and '80. What I find most impressive about John's career is not only the length -- which I've always believed should count for something, but that he was successful through all stages. At age 44, he finished 13-6 with the New York Yankees. While he never won the Cy Young, three seasons with 20+ wins stands out.

Cons Against Induction
I wanted the task of presenting Tommy John because I knew very little about his playing career and merely wrote off his notoriety as being associated with a now prominent surgery. It's possible many voters feel the same way. Due to his injury in 1974, John wasn't able to reach the 300 win plateau which is a near guarantee for Hall of Fame inclusion. What I suspect is also being held against Tommy, is that his substantial numbers are the result of a lengthy career and not a stretch of dominance at his position. While the lefty won 20 games back to back in '79-80, most voters are more familiar with his 40-47 record over his final 6 seasons.

The Verdict
He's the epitome of a crafty left-hander, but unfortunately he only built a resume that has impressed 30% (Highest vote in favor, recorded in 2006) of the BBWAA. Tommy John gets my vote, but with just 22.9% voting favorably in 2007, 2008 will be no different.

Will He Ever Get In?
I'd give John a chance with the Veteran's Committee, albeit very slim seeing as how they've yet to induct anyone. As for the BBWAA, I give him no chance whatsoever.

Now it’s your turn. Discuss Tommy John's candidacy in the comments, and be sure to vote in both his individual poll and Seth’s poll encompassing the entire ballot.