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In his final known interview just ten days before his death, baseball legend Pete Rose shared thoughts on his Hall of Fame chances. This intimate conversation took place shortly before Rose passed away at the age of 83 in September, succumbing to hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
During the interview, Rose expressed his belief that he might not receive the recognition he deserves until after his death. He stated, “I’ve come to the conclusion, I hope I’m wrong, I’ll make the Hall of Fame after I die.” These remarks were featured in a segment aired on “Fox & Friends,” generating significant interest among sports fans.
While reflecting on the Hall of Fame, Rose emphasized its importance to both fans and family. He passionately asserted, “The Hall of Fame is for two reasons: your fans and your family. It’s for your family if you’re here. It’s for your fans if you’re here, not if you’re 10 feet under.”
A Complex Legacy
Rose’s incredible achievements on the field contrast sharply with the circumstances that led to his exclusion from the Hall of Fame. With a staggering 4,256 career hits, he holds the record for the most hits in Major League Baseball history. His accolades include being named the National League MVP in 1974, securing three World Series championships, and earning titles as a 17-time All-Star and three-time batting champion.
Despite these accomplishments, Rose’s career became marred by scandal when revelations emerged in the late 1980s about his gambling on baseball games. This indiscretion led to his lifetime ban from MLB in 1989, transforming him into a polarizing figure in the sport he once dominated.
Acceptance and Reflection
During his recent interview, Rose showed little bitterness regarding his ban from Cooperstown. He stated plainly, “I’m not bitter about everything. When you make a mistake, don’t be bitter to other people. I wish I hadn’t made the mistake, but I did, it’s history, get over it.” This perspective illustrates a man who, while acknowledging his past, prefers to focus on the present.
Moreover, Rose defended his actions, saying, “I didn’t hurt any of my fans by betting on the game of baseball, and by the way, betting on the game of baseball to win. Every game I played in I wanted to win. I happened to win more than anybody else, but that’s OK, not bad,” Rose concluded with a smile.
Calls for a Pardon
In recent developments, President Donald Trump weighed in on the controversy surrounding Rose. Trump announced his intention to grant a full pardon to Rose, expressing that the Hall of Fame’s failure to honor Rose during his lifetime was a shame. He lamented, “Now he is dead, will never experience the thrill of being selected, even though he was a FAR BETTER PLAYER than most of those who made it, and can only be named posthumously.”
Trump went further, critiquing the baseball establishment for not recognizing Rose’s immense contributions to the sport. He stated, “Baseball, which is dying all over the place, should get off its fat, lazy a–, and elect Pete Rose, even though far too late, into the Baseball Hall of Fame!” This proclamation sparked renewed discussions about Rose’s legacy and potential reinstatement.
Efforts for Reinstatement
In an effort to return to the game, Rose applied for reinstatement in both 2020 and 2022. These requests came at a time when sports betting was becoming increasingly legalized across the United States. However, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred rejected both petitions, citing that decisions regarding Rose’s eligibility would rest with the Veteran’s Committee.
Furthermore, Manfred has consistently dismissed speculation regarding Rose’s reinstatement, given MLB’s partnerships with various sportsbooks. The ongoing discourse raises questions about the possibility of Rose being posthumously removed from baseball’s ineligible list, a move that could allow him to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.
A Lasting Influence
Although Pete Rose never received his Hall of Fame induction during his lifetime, he remains an integral part of baseball history. The Cincinnati Reds, where he spent the majority of his career, honored his legacy by inducting him into their own Hall of Fame in 2016 and retiring his iconic number 14. In the years leading up to his passing, Rose made numerous appearances in MLB ballparks, connecting with fans and reinforcing his lasting impact on the game.
As we reflect on his life, it becomes clear that Rose’s story transcends mere statistics or accolades. It is a narrative filled with triumph, controversy, and ultimately a quest for redemption. For those who followed his journey, his legacy serves as a potent reminder of the complicated relationship between sports and the human experience.
Continuing Conversations
The discussions surrounding Pete Rose’s legacy and potential reinstatement will likely continue in the coming years. His story resonates with many, highlighting the need for clearer standards in the world of sports regarding past indiscretions and the possibility of redemption. Whether he will one day receive the honor many believe he deserves remains to be seen, but the conversation will undoubtedly persist.
Ryan Morik contributed to this report.
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