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2mo ago

MLB Reinstates Pete Rose and Shoeless Joe Jackson, Ending Lifetime Bans

Commissioner Manfred's reinterpretation of Rule 21 allows Hall of Fame eligibility for deceased players starting in 2027, reigniting ethical debates in baseball.

(Original Caption) 3/26/1989-Clearwater, FL- Reds' manager Pete Rose blows a less than major league bubble as he looks out of the dugout prior to the Reds game against the Phillies. Rose is under investigation by the baseball commissioners office for alleged gambling.
American baseball player Pete Rose, of the Cincinatti Reds, crouches on the field before a game at Shea Stadium in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Queens, New York, New York, July 24, 1978. The game, against the New York Mets, resulted in Rose increasing his hitting streak to 37 consecutive games (the streak eventually lasted 44 games).
FILE - MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred speaks during a news conference Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin, File)
Former Cincinnati Reds player and guest Pete Ross acknowledges spectators during a Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame induction ceremony before a baseball game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Saturday, July 21, 2018, in Cincinnati.

Overview

  • MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred removed Pete Rose, Shoeless Joe Jackson, and 15 others from the league's permanently ineligible list, citing that lifetime bans end upon death.
  • The decision makes these individuals eligible for Hall of Fame consideration by the Classic Baseball Era Committee beginning in 2027.
  • Manfred justified the policy change by stating that deceased individuals no longer pose a threat to the integrity of the game.
  • Critics argue the move could set a precedent for reconsidering other controversial figures like Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens, who were excluded due to PED allegations.
  • The decision follows a meeting between Manfred and President Trump, who had publicly pledged to pardon Rose, raising questions about political influence in MLB policy changes.