Pete Rose, MLB Hits Leader and Legend, Dies at Age 83

NEW YORK — Pete Rose, the legendary baseball player known for being the all-time hits leader, has passed away at the age of 83. Despite his incredible career, Rose’s legacy was marred by scandal after his involvement in gambling on baseball led to a lifetime ban from Major League Baseball, forever clouding his Hall of Fame prospects.

Stephanie Wheatley, a spokesperson for Clark County, Nevada, confirmed Rose’s death, stating that he was found by a family member on Monday. According to ABC News, the coroner will investigate the cause of death, though no foul play is suspected. Just days before, Rose had been seen at an autograph show in Nashville alongside former Cincinnati Reds teammates Tony Perez, George Foster, and Dave Concepcion.

For those who watched baseball in the 1960s and 1970s, no player was as electrifying as Rose, affectionately known as “Charlie Hustle.” Donning the Cincinnati Reds’ No. 14, Rose’s aggressive play style, iconic shaggy hair, and unwavering determination made him a fan favorite. At a time when the game was changing with artificial turf, divisional play, and free agency, Rose was a symbol of baseball’s past — a fierce competitor who sprinted to first base even after a walk and famously dove headfirst into bases.

Despite being banned from baseball in 1989 for gambling, Major League Baseball issued a statement following his death, honoring Rose’s “greatness, grit, and determination on the field.” Bob Castellini, principal owner of the Cincinnati Reds, praised Rose’s competitiveness, calling him “one of the fiercest competitors the game has ever seen,” and emphasized the importance of recognizing Rose’s remarkable achievements.

A 17-time All-Star, Rose’s career accolades are undeniable. He played in over 3,562 games, amassed 4,256 hits, and set records for plate appearances (15,890) and the longest hitting streak in National League history (44 games). Rose was the leadoff hitter for the Reds’ dominant “Big Red Machine” teams of the mid-1970s, which won back-to-back World Series titles in 1975 and 1976. His teammates included Hall of Famers Johnny Bench, Tony Perez, and Joe Morgan.

“My heart is sad,” Bench said in a statement. “I loved you, Peter Edward. You made all of us better. No one can replace you.”

The Cincinnati Reds also expressed their grief in a social media post, saying they are “heartbroken” to learn of Rose’s passing.

In a post on social media Monday night, the Reds said they are “heartbroken” to learn of Rose’s death.”

The Reds are heartbroken to learn of the passing of baseball legend Pete Rose. pic.twitter.com/zOlU9NreWR

— Cincinnati Reds (@Reds) September 30, 2024