Baseball's all-time hits leader Pete Rose has finally been reinstated by Major League Baseball—though only after his death. In a stunning announcement that shook the baseball world, Commissioner Rob Manfred removed both Rose and Shoeless Joe Jackson from the league's "permanently ineligible" list, stating that "a person no longer with us cannot represent a threat to the integrity of the game."
The timing of this decision gives new significance to my 2017 interview with Rose, which I've shared in full on this episode. During our conversation, Rose displayed remarkable candor about his gambling-related ban, refusing to make excuses or cast blame, instead acknowledging: "I'm not going to complain about not being in the baseball Hall of Fame because I made the mistakes. I'm the one that messed that up." His approach to taking responsibility offers a powerful lesson about accountability and facing the consequences of one's actions.
Beyond the controversy, Rose shares fascinating insights about his legendary career with the Cincinnati Reds' "Big Red Machine" dynasty of the 1970s. He describes the emotional nine-minute standing ovation he received after breaking Ty Cobb's all-time hits record in 1985, and how his thoughts turned to his father, coaches, and mentors who weren't alive to witness the achievement. Rose also offers thoughtful perspectives on other controversial Hall of Fame cases, including steroid-era stars like Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens, revealing a willingness to forgive that stands in contrast to baseball's long stance toward his own case.
As baseball grapples with its complicated relationship to its legends, Rose's reinstatement raises profound questions about forgiveness, legacy, and whether punishment should extend beyond the grave. Whether you agree with the decision or not, this conversation with the man who collected more hits than anyone in baseball history provides valuable context for understanding one of sport's most complex figures.