In January 1936, Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, Honus Wagner, Christy Mathewson and Walter Johnson became charter members in an exclusive club: the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York. By 2008, the membership had grown to 286 individuals, including players, managers, coaches, umpires, executives, and pioneers. In addition, the Hall of Fame has recognized 32 broadcasters and 59 writers with its Frick and Spink awards.

This extensively updated and revised edition provides essential information for every individual honored by or elected to the Hall of Fame, including the historic Class of 2006, which saw enshrinement of 17 previously overlooked greats from the Negro Leagues and pre-Negro Leagues. Each entry includes biographical information and career highlights, as well as the year of induction or recognition. Year-by-year statistics are included for the players, along with a list of transactions. More than 80 photos are new to the second edition.