Pete Rose Removed from MLB’s Permanently Ineligible List

CINCINNATI, Ohio — Pete Rose, baseball’s all-time hits leader, has been reinstated by Major League Baseball (MLB), the league announced on Tuesday, lifting his permanent ban imposed in 1989 for betting on games while managing the Cincinnati Reds.

Rose, who passed away in September 2024 at the age of 83, was officially removed from MLB’s permanently ineligible list, making him posthumously eligible for induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame. The decision follows a request made by Rose’s family and attorney Jeffrey Lenkov in January.

Commissioner Rob Manfred stated in a letter that permanent ineligibility will end upon the death of those banned, as they can no longer threaten the integrity of the game. “This is a long journey for Pete’s family and supporters,” Lenkov said. “They are very proud and pleased with this decision.”

Rose was banned for betting on the Reds during his tenure as player-manager from 1985 to 1987. The consequences of his infractions have cast a long shadow over his legacy as a 17-time All-Star and three-time World Series champion.

The ruling could allow Rose’s case to be reviewed by the Classic Baseball Era Committee, which considers players whose careers ended more than 15 years ago. The committee is scheduled to meet in December 2027.

“Getting into the Hall of Fame on his merits is an opportunity he wanted and should be able to receive now,” Lenkov added.

Rose’s storied career includes a record 4,256 hits, and he won the National League’s Rookie of the Year award in 1963, the Most Valuable Player award in 1973, and three batting titles. His accomplishments on the field consistently put him in discussions as one of the greatest players in baseball history.

The Reds plan to honor Rose with a special event called ‘Pete Rose Night’ at Great American Ball Park.

Despite the reinstatement, Rose cannot be placed on any Hall of Fame ballot until at least 2028 due to the current rules mandating a waiting period after a player’s eligibility is established. Rose’s path back into the Hall of Fame will depend on the Classic Baseball Era Committee, which requires 12 out of 16 votes for induction.