Major League Baseball announced Tuesday that Pete Rose, the all-time hits leader and Cincinnati baseball icon, has been removed from the league’s permanently ineligible list. The decision, made by Commissioner Rob Manfred, comes months after Rose’s death in October 2024.

Rose, who amassed 4,256 hits over a storied 24-year career, was banned from baseball in 1989 for betting on games while managing the Cincinnati Reds. Though he repeatedly sought reinstatement during his lifetime, MLB consistently upheld the ban—until now.

Manfred’s ruling follows a petition submitted by Rose’s family. The commissioner stated that Rule 21, which enforces permanent bans to preserve the integrity of the game, no longer applies after a person’s death.

Under this new interpretation, Rose becomes one of several deceased players, including “Shoeless” Joe Jackson, to be removed from the ineligible list. The decision could pave the way for Hall of Fame consideration, something long denied to Rose despite his legendary on-field accomplishments.

A native of Cincinnati and graduate of Western Hills High School, Rose signed with the Reds after high school and won Rookie of the Year in 1963. A central figure in the Big Red Machine, he earned multiple MVP honors, three World Series titles, and was named an All-Star 17 times.

Rose played for the Phillies and Expos before returning to the Reds, where he also served as player-manager. In 1985, he broke Ty Cobb’s career hits record. His No. 14 jersey is retired in Cincinnati, where he remains enshrined in the Reds Hall of Fame.

While the Hall of Fame has not yet commented on the ruling’s impact, Rose’s removal from the ineligible list marks a significant shift in baseball’s approach to its most controversial figures.

Source: Pete Rose Removed from MLB Ban List, Opening Door to Hall of Fame Consideration

Featured Image Caption: WCPO Cincinnati