MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has lifted Pete Rose’s ineligibility status for the Hall of Fame, partially influenced by President Donald Trump’s endorsement and “pardon” of the late baseball legend.
At a Glance
- MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred acknowledged Trump’s influence in removing Pete Rose from the ineligible list
- Trump issued an unofficial “pardon” for Rose and criticized MLB for not inducting him while alive
- Rose was banned in 1989 for gambling on Reds games while managing the team
- Rose’s Hall of Fame candidacy could be considered as early as 2028
- His eligibility faces obstacles from gambling history and allegations of involvement with underage girls
Trump’s Influence on Rose’s Reinstatement
Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred has confirmed that President Donald Trump’s vocal support played a significant role in the decision to remove Pete Rose from baseball’s ineligible list. This pivotal change, which came after Rose’s death in September 2023 at age 83, potentially paves the way for the MLB’s all-time hits leader to receive posthumous induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame. The decision marks a significant shift in MLB’s stance toward Rose, who had been permanently banned from baseball since 1989 for gambling on games while managing the Cincinnati Reds.
“The President was one of a number of voices that was supportive of the idea that this was the right decision,” said Rob Manfred.
Trump’s influence included an unofficial “pardon” for Rose, which carried symbolic weight despite having no formal authority in MLB disciplinary matters. The former president has been outspoken about Rose’s exclusion from baseball’s highest honor, arguing that “Charlie Hustle” deserved recognition for his on-field achievements regardless of his off-field controversies. Manfred acknowledged that Trump’s stance was one of several factors considered in making the determination to clear Rose’s path for potential Hall of Fame consideration.
Rose’s Complicated Legacy
Pete Rose’s legacy remains one of baseball’s most complex and controversial. Despite amassing an unmatched 4,256 career hits and earning 17 All-Star selections during his illustrious playing career, Rose’s reputation was permanently tarnished by his gambling activities. After years of denials, Rose finally admitted in 2004 that he had bet on games involving the Cincinnati Reds, though he maintained he only wagered on his team to win, not lose. This confession came 15 years after his permanent placement on baseball’s ineligible list.
“Major League Baseball didn’t have the courage or decency to put the late, great, Pete Rose, also known as ‘Charlie Hustle,’ into the Baseball Hall of fame. 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. WHAT A SHAME!”, said President Donald Trump.
Further complicating Rose’s candidacy are allegations of inappropriate relationships with underage girls during the 1970s. While Rose initially denied these claims, he later acknowledged having been involved with a girl who was under 18, though he maintained belief that she was older. These allegations may factor into the Hall of Fame committee’s deliberations, potentially extending beyond the gambling issues that originally prompted his ban from the sport.
Path to Cooperstown Now Possible
With Rose’s removal from the ineligible list, his Hall of Fame candidacy could be considered as early as 2028 by the Classic Baseball Era Committee. This 16-member panel would need to provide 12 votes in favor of Rose’s induction for him to receive baseball’s highest honor posthumously. The decision represents a significant shift in MLB policy, which now states that permanent ineligibility ends upon an individual’s death. This change was partly influenced by an application from Rose’s family following his passing.
The Hall of Fame’s stance on Rose has historically been firm, with officials implementing a rule in 1991 specifically designed to keep players on baseball’s ineligible list off the ballot. Whether the committee will focus solely on Rose’s gambling or consider the broader allegations against him remains uncertain. What is clear is that Manfred’s decision, influenced in part by Trump’s advocacy, has reopened one of baseball’s most enduring debates about redemption, legacy, and the balance between on-field excellence and personal conduct.
