CBS News : Pete Rose: ‘I’m The Best Ambassador That Baseball Has i don’t worry about what people say that may or may not happen 35 years ago and…
Pete Rose: Baseball’s Unwavering Ambassador Still Fighting for Reinstatement
Pete Rose, Major League Baseball’s all-time hits leader, continues his tireless quest for reinstatement into the sport he loves. Despite the lifetime ban he has faced since 1989 for gambling on games, Rose remains deeply immersed in the world of baseball. While his efforts for reinstatement are ongoing, Rose has found ways to stay connected to the game and its fans.
In a recent interview on the *Mike & Ike Show* on Philadelphia’s 94WIP, Rose shared insights into his daily life, which continues to revolve around baseball. His routine includes signing autographs for four hours, talking baseball with fans, enjoying a meal from Subway, and watching sporting events in the evening.
Reflecting on his place in baseball, Rose remains confident in his role as one of the sport’s most passionate advocates. “I believe I’m the best ambassador that baseball has,” Rose told hosts Michael Barkann and Ike Reese. “I believe I’m the only guy in the history of
Rose’s love for the sport is evident in his continued engagement with fans and his positive outlook on the game. “I don’t knock the game of baseball. I love the game of baseball. I’ll continue to try and sell the game of baseball whether I’m in it or not in it,” he added.
### Ongoing Fight for Reinstatement
While Rose enjoys his daily baseball-related activities, his fight for reinstatement into Major League Baseball remains a significant focus. His efforts to clear his name were complicated by an *ESPN Outside The Lines* report released during the summer, which revealed documents showing that Rose had bet on games while still playing in 1986.
Despite the renewed controversy, Rose remains undeterred. In September, he met with MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, just months after submitting his application for reinstatement. During the interview, Rose expressed his optimism about the meeting, emphasizing the respectful nature of the conversation.
“I had a very successful meeting with the commissioner who was very cordial, and he told me he would make a decision by the end of the calendar year and we’ll go from there,” Rose said. He also downplayed the impact of the incriminating reports, saying, “I don’t worry about what people say that may or may not have happened 35 years ago. It seems like every time you turn around, ESPN can come up with something… I don’t worry about that.”
Rose remains hopeful that Commissioner Manfred will give him another chance at reinstatement, allowing him to fully re-engage with the sport that has defined his life. With his legacy as one of baseball’s greatest players still intact in the eyes of many fans, Rose continues to advocate for the game, regardless of his official status within it.
### A Controversial Legacy
Rose’s lifetime ban from baseball has been one of the sport’s most contentious topics for over three decades. With a staggering 4,256 career hits, his on-field accomplishments are undeniable, yet his off-field actions have cast a long shadow over his legacy.
As baseball’s all-time hits leader, Rose was a 17-time All-Star, a three-time World Series champion, and the 1973 National League MVP. His passion and relentless hustle earned him the nickname “Charlie Hustle,” and he remains beloved by many fans.
However, Rose’s admission to betting on games while managing the Cincinnati Reds led to his permanent exclusion from the sport, including from consideration for the Hall of Fame. Over the years, he has sought reinstatement multiple times, but with no success.
Despite this, Rose continues to celebrate the game and engage with fans, insisting that his love for baseball will never wane. Whether reinstatement comes or not, his dedication to promoting the sport remains unwavering.
### Awaiting the Future
As the end of the year approaches, the baseball world waits for Commissioner Rob Manfred’s decision regarding Rose’s latest bid for reinstatement. Whether or not Rose is allowed back into the sport, his status as one of baseball’s most influential figures remains.
For now, Rose is content with being a passionate fan and ambassador for the game, spending his days surrounded by the sport he loves. “I’m just going to continue to be a great baseball fan,” Rose said. His dedication to the game, even after all these years, is a testament to his enduring love for America’s pastime.
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