Banishment: A Thorn In Rose’s Side

12 Pages 3086 Words

“Election to the Hall of Fame has never been an affirmation of impeccable character, but rather a recognition of extraordinary achievements on the diamond. This is what makes the case of Pete Rose, one of the greatest baseball players of all time, so agonizing.” (Carter)
Peter Edward Rose was placed on Major League Baseball’s ineligible list in 1989 when the Commissioner of Baseball, A. Bartlett Giamatti, concluded that Rose had bet on baseball games, including games involving his own team, the Cincinnati Reds.
In an agreement made with Baseball, Rose accepted his de facto banishment from the sport. But Rose did not admit to having gambled on baseball games. “Nothing in this agreement shall be deemed either an admission or a denial by Peter Edward Rose of the allegation that he bet on any Major League Baseball game.” (Giamatti and Rose 4)
According to the current version of Baseball's rules, Rose can become eligible for the Hall of Fame by getting off the banishment list. Hall of Fame Rule 3e states, “Any player on Baseball’s ineligible list shall not be an eligible candidate.” (Rules for Election 1) Although no one in the history of the sport has been able to get off the list, Rose can petition Baseball's powers-that-be to be removed. “Nothing in this agreement shall deprive Peter Edward Rose of the rights under Major League Baseball Rule 15(c) to apply for reinstatement.” (Giamatti and Rose 4) Once he's off the list, he can be considered for the Hall of Fame. Apparently, Rose’s remaining goal in life is to get into the Hall of Fame.
Hall of Fame Rule 5 designates six general areas that voting members should keep in mind when considering who to put into the Hall of Fame. “Voting shall be based upon the player’s record, playing ability, integrity, sportsmanship, character, and contributions to the team(s) on which the player played.” (Rules for Election 2) To be honest, integrity and character c...