Major League Baseball commissioner Rob Manfred could soon determine whether Cincinnati Reds legend Pete Rose will be posthumously removed from baseball’s ineligible list.

Major League Baseball (MLB) Commissioner Rob Manfred is currently deliberating on a petition that could lead to the posthumous removal of Cincinnati Reds legend Pete Rose from baseball’s permanently ineligible list. This development comes after Rose’s death at age 83 in September 2024. The petition, filed by Rose’s former attorney Jeffrey Lenkov in January 2025, aims to clear the path for Rose’s potential induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame—a long-sought goal by Rose and his family .

Rose, MLB’s all-time hits leader with 4,256 hits, was banned from baseball in 1989 following an investigation that revealed he bet on games involving the Cincinnati Reds while serving as both player and manager. Despite multiple appeals for reinstatement, including a notable denial by Manfred in 2015, Rose remained on the ineligible list throughout his life

The current petition has garnered attention at the highest levels, with President Donald Trump expressing support for Rose. Trump announced plans to issue a full pardon, stating that Rose “shouldn’t have been gambling on baseball, but only bet on HIS TEAM WINNING” .

Commissioner Manfred has acknowledged the petition and confirmed that he will make a ruling, though he has not provided a specific timeline. He emphasized the seriousness of gambling violations, noting that “Pete Rose violated what is sort of rule one in baseball,” and that the consequences are clear .

If Rose is reinstated, the Historical Overview Committee would need to nominate him for Hall of Fame eligibility. However, the Hall of Fame, governed by a private foundation, does not guarantee Rose’s induction even if MLB reinstates him, reflecting the complexity and longstanding controversy surrounding his case .

The debate over Rose’s legacy continues to evoke strong opinions. Supporters argue that his on-field achievements merit recognition, while critics maintain that his gambling offenses undermine the integrity of the sport. As Commissioner Manfred weighs the petition, the baseball community awaits a decision that could redefine the legacy of one of the game’s most prolific players.