Pete Rose, a baseball legend, died at his home in Las Vegas on Monday, according to an announcement by the Cincinnati Reds. The 83-year-old was a 17-time All-Star and held numerous records in Major League Baseball (MLB) during his 24-year career. Rose played for the Reds, Philadelphia Phillies, and Montreal Expos.
The news of Rose’s death was first reported by TMZ. Ryan Fiterman of Fiterman Sports, Rose’s agent, told TMZ that the family of the MLB legend is asking for privacy during this challenging time. ABC News reported that a family member found Rose, and there were no signs of foul play. The coroner will determine the cause and circumstances of Rose’s death.
Rose, also known as “Charlie Hustle” for his energetic style of play, is remembered as the MLB’s all-time hits leader. However, his legacy is also tainted by his gambling on baseball, which led to a lifetime ban from the sport. Rose’s illustrious career included three World Series titles, two with the Reds and one with the Phillies, and the 1973 National League MVP. He retired with records in several categories.
When Rose retired in 1986, he held the MLB records for hits (4,256), singles (3,215), games played (3,562), at-bats (14,053), and plate appearances (15,890). He also won three batting titles and two Gold Gloves. In the 1978 season, Rose made headlines with his 44-game hitting streak, tying a nearly century-old National League record. The streak ended on August 1 of that year when he struck out in the ninth inning against the Atlanta Braves.
Bob Castellini, the Reds’ principal owner and managing partner, expressed his sadness over Rose’s passing. He praised Rose as one of the game’s most fierce competitors, stating that every team Rose played for was better because of him and that no one loved the game more than Rose. He also noted that Rose was deeply loved by Reds Country.
Rose ended his playing career as a player-manager for Cincinnati from 1984-86 before fully transitioning to managing duties until 1989. Despite his undeniable talent on the field, Rose’s legacy has been tarnished by his lifetime ban from baseball due to allegations that he bet on baseball while managing the Reds.
Rose’s ban from baseball remains a contentious issue. He has been denied reinstatement multiple times since the lifetime ban was imposed on August 24, 1989. Because of the scandal, Rose has never been nominated for the Baseball Hall of Fame. After years of denial, Rose admitted to betting on baseball in 2004 but insisted he never bet against the Reds.
In a 2018 interview with the Cincinnati Inquirer, Rose expressed regret over his decision to bet on baseball, stating it was the one thing he would change if he could live his life over again. He maintained that he had been a good citizen and was always gracious to everyone.