As it stands now I think it absolutely does. Does he have to be Koufax (0.95 ERA in 4 world series)? No, you can look at Randy Johnson, who went through a 0-6 postseason stretch, however Johnson also has a World Series MVP to his name. There will definitely be a blemish next to Verlander's name until he can redeem himself on the big stage. Does it hurt HOF chances, no, he's obviously a great pitcher, but I think it hurts his "aura" as an all time immortal. Seaver's only like 1-2 but has a, I think, 2.70 ERA. I'm not saying you need to be perfect but he's got to at least have 1 shining moment imo. Not always fair but I think it's true.
I disagree. Rings don't really mean much in baseball. If we were talking about a basketball player, you might have a point. Ted Williams never won a ring and was pretty bad in the one World Series he played in. He's still one of the best hitters of all time.
