MLB Posthumously Reinstates Pete Rose, Baseball’s All-Time Hit Leader, Ahead of Reds Tribute
CINCINNATI, OH — In a landmark decision, Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred has posthumously removed Pete Rose from the league’s permanently ineligible list, more than three decades after the legendary hitter was banned for gambling violations. The announcement comes just ahead of a scheduled Cincinnati Reds tribute night honoring Rose during Wednesday’s game against the Chicago White Sox.
Rose, who passed away in September 2024 at the age of 83, had been the subject of one of baseball’s most high-profile bans. His removal from the ineligible list marks a significant moment for both baseball history and Hall of Fame eligibility debates.
Pete Rose: Baseball’s All-Time Hit King
A cornerstone of the iconic Big Red Machine, Pete Rose remains the MLB’s all-time leader in:
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Hits: 4,256
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Games Played: 3,562
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At-Bats: 14,053
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Singles: 3,215
Nicknamed “Charlie Hustle” for his unmatched drive and passion, Rose earned three World Series championships, an MVP award, two Gold Gloves, and was named Rookie of the Year in 1963. Despite these accolades, Rose had been denied entry into the National Baseball Hall of Fame due to the gambling scandal that led to his 1989 lifetime ban.
MLB Revises Ineligible List Policy After Death
Commissioner Manfred stated Tuesday that MLB would no longer uphold lifetime bans after a player’s death, noting the importance of closure and historical perspective. Rose was one of 16 players removed from the ineligible list under this updated policy — a list that also included Shoeless Joe Jackson and members of the infamous 1919 Chicago White Sox, also known as the Black Sox Scandal.
Hall of Fame to Reconsider Rose’s Eligibility
The National Baseball Hall of Fame acknowledged the significance of MLB’s ruling, confirming that previously banned, now-deceased individuals are eligible for Hall of Fame consideration. The Historical Overview Committee will prepare a ballot of eight names for the Classic Baseball Era Committee, which meets next in December 2027.
“MLB’s decision allows for a full historical review of these individuals’ contributions to the game,” said Jane Forbes Clark, Hall of Fame Chairman.
Reds Organization, Fans Celebrate the News
Bob Castellini, owner of the Cincinnati Reds, issued a statement praising the decision:
“On behalf of the Reds and our generations of loyal fans, we are thankful for the decision of Commissioner Manfred and Major League Baseball regarding the removal of Pete Rose from the permanently ineligible list. Pete is one of the greatest players in baseball history, and we will continue to honor his legacy.”
Castellini also acknowledged the emotional significance for Rose’s family and lifelong fans.
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