Trump to Posthumously Pardon Pete Rose Amid Controversy Over MLB Gambling Ban
March 2, 2025
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions among MLB owners, with varying perspectives on the economic implications and team performance.
Despite his achievements on the field, Rose's repeated violations of the gambling rule raise questions about his character and whether he deserves reinstatement.
While some argue for Rose's reinstatement, critics emphasize that honoring problematic figures should not compel current decision-makers to repeat past mistakes.
Rose argued in 2022 that public attitudes towards gambling have shifted since his infractions, suggesting that perceptions of his actions may have changed.
Rose, who passed away in September 2024 at the age of 83, admitted in his autobiography that he gambled on his team to recapture the thrill of winning.
Previous attempts to reinstate Rose were made in 1997, 2002, and again in 2015, all of which were denied by MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred.
Although Rose is a significant figure in baseball history, his problematic past, including allegations of statutory rape, complicates the case for his Hall of Fame recognition.
Manfred has indicated that he views lifetime bans as punishments that should conclude upon a player's death, which adds another layer to the discussion surrounding Rose.
Trump made his statement regarding Rose on March 1, 2025, amid other controversial remarks, highlighting his complex relationship with baseball.
President Donald Trump has announced plans to issue a complete pardon for Pete Rose, the late baseball legend and all-time hits leader, who was banned from Major League Baseball (MLB) due to sports betting.
Trump's involvement in sports has been notable, but he has not established a strong connection with baseball compared to previous presidents.
In a gesture of remembrance, the Cincinnati Reds will wear a No. 14 patch during the 2025 season to honor Rose.
Summary based on 38 sources
Get a daily email with more MLB stories
Sources

AP News • Mar 1, 2025
Trump says in social media post he plans to pardon the late Pete Rose
HuffPost • Mar 1, 2025
'WHAT A SHAME!': Trump Makes Late Night Pitch To 'PARDON' Pete Rose
HuffPost • Mar 2, 2025
MLB Commissioner Considering Petition To Posthumously Reinstate Pete Rose: AP Source