Pete Rose, known as “Charlie Hustle” for his aggressive and enthusiastic play, passed away, marking the end of an era for baseball fans and leaving behind a legacy filled with both remarkable achievements and significant controversies.
He was 83.
Rose, who spent most of his career with the Cincinnati Reds, was Major League Baseball’s all-time hits leader with 4,256 hits, a record that still stands. He was one of the most celebrated players in all of baseball.
His death was confirmed by a spokesperson for the Clark County Office of the Coroner/Medical Examiner in Nevada, where he lived out his later years.
Rose’s passing has reignited discussions about his ban from baseball for gambling, a shadow that loomed large over his otherwise stellar career. He was found to have bet on baseball games. Including those of the Cincinnati Reds while he was managing the team.
Rose’s actions prevented his induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame despite his on-field heroics.
Reaction To Pete Rose’s Death
The reaction to Pete Rose’s death has been a mix of mourning for the loss of one of baseball’s most passionate players and reflection on the complexities of his legacy.
Major League Baseball issued statements expressing condolences, highlighting his “greatness, grit, and determination on the field,” while fans and former players alike took to social media to express their grief and share memories of watching Rose play.
Thom Brennaman, a former Reds broadcaster, also paid tribute to Rose, reflecting on his impact on the sport and the local community.
“I had the pleasure of meeting Pete Rose when I was ten years old in Tampa,” he wrote on X. “He was the same to me as a kid as he was when I announced his games.”
“And never turned his back on a friend when my career was in tatters. He was just an awesome guy to be around.”
Former Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees third baseman Wade Boggs, himself a member of the 3,000-hit club, also shared his thoughts on Rose’s passing.
“Words can’t describe how I feel right now my Idol and friend growing up wanting to be Pete Rose,” Boggs said. “You’ll be dearly missed my friend. RIP my Brother.”
ESPN sports personality Mike Greenberg offered his own heartfelt tribute to ‘Charlie Hustle’.
“There has never been another player like Pete Rose in my lifetime. This is the way I will remember him, playing the game harder than anyone else ever did,” he wrote, adding an incredible image of him diving headfirst into third base.
“Few athletes will leave behind more complicated legacies. Today isn’t the day for that. Today, let’s just say thanks to Charlie Hustle, for playing the way we always dreamt we would if given the chance.”
Fourteen-time All-Star Alex Rodriguez said he would miss Pete Rose’s personality the most.
“Absolutely heartbroken to hear the devastating news about Pete Rose’s passing,” wrote Rodriguez. “He always brought a smile to my face when we worked together at Fox. He was (a) true original and 1 of 1. Nobody loved baseball more than Pete and I’ll miss him terribly.”
We’ll all miss him terribly.
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Charlie Hustle Belongs In The Hall Of Fame – And Always Has
Pete Rose is one of the greatest baseball players of all time. He currently holds the MLB records for hits and singles.
His list of accolades is impressive: three-time World Series Champion, MVP, three batting titles, two Gold Gloves, and Rookie of the Year.
Despite his ban for gambling, his on-field achievements are undeniable. Players with controversial pasts, like Ty Cobb, known for his aggressive play and off-field behavior, have been inducted. So, personal conduct has not always barred entry.
Moreover, Rose’s impact on the game, his role in the “Big Red Machine,” and his influence on how the game is played and appreciated by fans argue for his inclusion as a significant figure in baseball history.
Despite his banishment from the sport’s formal recognitions, the Reds had previously honored him by inducting him into their own Hall of Fame and erecting a statue in his likeness.
It’s well past time that MLB honors him in the same manner.
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