updated 6:35 p.m. ET Jan. 12, 2009

MINNEAPOLIS - Another year, another disappointment for Bert Blyleven.

The former major league pitcher came up short Monday in Hall of Fame balloting, gaining only two more votes than he got last year. Blyleven received 62.7 percent of the vote from the Baseball Writers’ Association of America in his 12th try at election. Players need 75 percent for a spot in Cooperstown.

“I really have nothing to say,” Blyleven said in a text message sent to The Associated Press. “I am actually tired of defending my career numbers whether I should be in or not! Have a great day.”

Blyleven writes regularly for NBCSports.com.

Gaining induction were outfielders Rickey Henderson and Jim Rice, who made it in his 15th and final year of eligibility on the BBWAA ballot.

Blyleven, the right-hander with the wicked curveball, won 287 games in 22 major league seasons with Minnesota, Texas, Pittsburgh, Cleveland and the California Angels.

He ranks fifth in career strikeouts with 3,701 and is the only retired pitcher in the top 16 on that list who isn’t in the Hall of Fame.

Former Twins pitcher Jack Morris received 44 percent of the vote.

More news

Getty Images

The man who no longer matters

Posnanski: Albert Pujols' at-bats used to be buzzworthy, must-watch events. Now, they're not. Here's the result of his struggles the past few years.

Brian Garfinkel / Getty Images

HBT: Ruiz's hamstring a worry for Phillies

HBT: Carlos Ruiz was lifted from Sunday afternoon’s game against the Reds after straining his right hamstring while running the bases in the bottom of the second inning.

Headlines

• Label

CSN: Phils touch Reds' Chapman for 2 HRs

Braves reach Dodgers' ailing bullpen in eighth

Friars pound Nationals, force series split

HBT: Rangers DL Kinsler, recall prospect Profar

Moore stays unbeaten as Rays top Orioles

Angels top White Sox  |  Indians shut out M's

Blue Jays-Yankees finale scrubbed by rain

Cards top Brewers, beat Lohse for third time