School Files

Dan Kenealy

COM 102

5/9/13

Radz

Pete Rose: Why He Belongs in the Hall of Fame

The game of baseball has always been a sport built around awards and achievements. It is typically those who have reached prolific milestones who garner the fame and recognition for beyond their years. Pete Rose, who has more hits and has gotten base more than anybody else in the history of “America’s pastime,” continues to be absent of Baseball’s Hall of Fame. Despite constantly being recognized as one of the game’s best ever hitters and hardest workers, he is viewed as a nuisance to the game. Rose, or “Charlie Hustle,” was banned from baseball and it’s Hall of Fame for gambling on games while playing for and managing the Cincinnati Reds. Pete Rose undoubtedly belongs in the Hall of Fame due to his versatility as both a player and manager, accomplishments, and passion for the game.

Rose is the last member of Major League Baseball to be labeled as player-manager, from 1984-1986 with the Reds. This goes to show how great of a leader Rose was and the respect he received from around the league. It is difficult to imagine the heavy workload he had on his shoulders not only lead his team on the field, but off of it as well. To be baseball’s last player-manager over twenty years ago should speak volumes to his leadership and knowledge for the game. It is absurd to think Rose didn’t have respect during his playing days since such an important and rare title was given to him. Although he was given such a rare role, it was Rose’s accomplishments on the field that really separated him from the rest.

Rose’s achievements on the field are seemingly endless. Rose is the all-time leader in base hits at 4,256, nearly 1,000 more than any active player (Derek Jeter). He also played in 17 All-Star Games, won a season MVP, a World Series MVP, two Gold Gloves, and three batting championships; however, he is not in the Baseball Hall of Fame. His milestones and achievements should...