Baseball icon Pete Rose passed away at his residence in Las Vegas on Monday, as confirmed by the Cincinnati Reds. The 83-year-old was a 17-time All-Star and held numerous Major League Baseball (MLB) records throughout his 24-year career, which included stints with the Reds, Philadelphia Phillies, and Montreal Expos. The news of Rose’s death was initially reported by TMZ.
Rose’s agent, Ryan Fiterman of Fiterman Sports, informed TMZ that the family of the MLB legend is requesting privacy during this difficult time. While details surrounding Rose’s death are sparse, it was reported by ABC News that a family member discovered Rose, and there were no indications of foul play. The cause and circumstances of Rose’s death will be determined by the coroner.
Rose, also known as “Charlie Hustle” for his energetic play, will be remembered as the MLB’s all-time hits leader. However, his legacy is also marked by his gambling on baseball, which resulted in 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.
Upon his retirement in 1986, Rose 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.
Reds principal owner and managing partner Bob Castellini expressed his sorrow over Rose’s passing, praising him as one of the game’s fiercest competitors. He emphasized 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 concluded 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 marred by his lifetime ban from baseball due to allegations that he bet on baseball while managing the Reds.
Rose’s ban from baseball continues to be 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 confessed 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.