The Cincinnati Reds held a heartfelt tribute for Pete Rose on Wednesday night, just a day after Major League Baseball lifted his posthumous ban from the league’s permanently ineligible list. The celebration drew a crowd of over 43,000 fans who chanted “Pete! Pete!” and filled the stadium with No. 14 jerseys. A moment of silence was observed, and a choir from Rose’s high school performed the national anthem. Rose’s presence was felt throughout the ballpark, symbolizing the city’s deep connection to its most iconic player.
Family, Teammates Reflect on Rose’s Legacy Amid Posthumous Reversal of Gambling Ban
The ceremony included a pregame panel featuring Hall of Famer Barry Larkin, Eric Davis, and George Foster, who shared personal stories about Rose. Members of Rose’s family delivered the game ball, and Reds manager Terry Francona, who once played with and for Rose, praised his unmatched competitive spirit. Rose’s daughter, Fawn, described the deep connection between her father and the city, saying, “This city was my dad.” The Reds had announced plans to honor Rose after his death in September 2024 at age 83.
Cincinnati Honors Pete Rose After Posthumous Ban Lift, Fans Rally Behind Hall of Fame HopesPete Rose’s career was overshadowed by his 1989 lifetime ban due to gambling on games while managing the Reds. This week, Commissioner Rob Manfred reversed MLB’s policy, declaring that permanent bans now expire upon a person’s death. He met with Rose’s family in December, providing them an opportunity to share who Rose was beyond baseball. While the decision brought some closure, Rose’s son expressed frustration that it came too late for his father to experience the recognition firsthand.
Cincinnati Fans Celebrate Rose as a Hero Despite Hall of Fame Uncertainty
Despite national controversy over Rose’s actions, he remained beloved in Cincinnati, where fans continued to admire his work ethic and gritty playing style. The stadium was filled with emotional fans, some stopping at his statue for photos before the game. Local supporters like Bob Wunder expressed anger over the delay in lifting the ban, wishing the decision had come during Rose’s lifetime. Nevertheless, the tribute marked a proud and cathartic moment for the city.
With the ineligibility lifted, Rose is now eligible for consideration by the Hall of Fame’s Classic Baseball Era committee, which meets next in December 2027. The selection process is rigorous and far from guaranteed, requiring 75% approval from a 16-member voting panel. While fans and former players like Francona believe Rose’s on-field accomplishments warrant induction, his gambling history continues to cast a long shadow. Still, to many in Cincinnati, his Hall of Fame status is already settled in their hearts.
