Cincinnati Celebrates Pete Rose’s Life on Historic Night

CINCINNATI — The Cincinnati Reds honored baseball’s all-time hits leader, Pete Rose, during a special ceremony at Great American Ball Park on Wednesday night. This tribute came just a day after Major League Baseball posthumously reinstated him, ending his lifetime ban due to gambling.

Fans filled the stadium, chanting ‘Pete! Pete!’ as they celebrated Rose’s legacy. A moment of silence was observed before the game, and a choir from Rose’s high school, Western Hills High, performed the national anthem. Fans wore replica jerseys adorned with the number 14, which Rose famously wore.

‘This city was my dad,’ said Fawn Rose, Pete’s daughter, reflecting on her father’s deep connection with Cincinnati. The Reds had organized this tribute in anticipation of this moment, acknowledging Rose’s contributions to the team’s history.

Prior to the game against the Chicago White Sox, former teammates and Reds Hall of Famers including Barry Larkin and Eric Davis participated in a panel discussion about Rose’s impact on baseball.

‘He played baseball with as much passion and competitive enjoyment as you ever could,’ Reds manager Terry Francona said. Francona, who played with Rose, admired his relentless work ethic. ‘You wanted to be on his team.’

Rose passed away in September 2024 at the age of 83. He played for the Reds for 19 of his 24 seasons, collecting a record 4,256 hits and earning three World Series championships. Despite his significant achievements, a gambling scandal in the 1980s led to his ban from baseball in 1989.

Commissioner Rob Manfred announced on Tuesday that Rose’s permanent ban would end with his death, allowing him to be eligible for the Hall of Fame. This decision sparked a mix of emotions among fans. Some expressed frustration that recognition came after Rose’s passing.

‘It’s awful. They should have done it when he was alive,’ said Bob Wunder, 65, a long-time Reds fan. ‘If I was the family, I would say, ‘Thanks, but no thanks.’ I’m upset that it had to wait until he passed away.’

Others, like Jerry Casebolt, 80, felt hopeful. ‘It was great to hear the news. Just opening up the gates to the Hall of Fame, but it’s still questionable. Hope he gets in. Shame he didn’t get to see it.’

While Rose’s reinstatement opens the door for potential Hall of Fame consideration, many agree that his induction remains uncertain. He must be evaluated by the Hall’s Classic Baseball Era committee, which will meet in December 2027.

‘If he’s not in, there is no Hall of Fame,’ Francona added, supporting the sentiment that Rose’s legacy is integral to baseball history. Fans left the park excited for Rose’s lasting legacy, embracing the idea that he deserves a second chance.