The older players eligible were those with ten major league seasons beginning 1945 or earlier; those who received at least 100 votes from the BBWAA in some election up to 1990; and those who received at least 60% support in some election beginning 1991.
The eligibility criteria for players involved those who had ten seasons played before 1945, receiving at least 100 votes from the BBWAA in any election up to 1990, and achieving a minimum of 60% support in an election starting in 1991.