Will Pete Rose Receive A Posthumous Pardon From Trump?

Natalie Brooks

4 min read

Post on Apr 29, 2025

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Pete Rose, baseball's all-time hits leader, remains a controversial figure, permanently banned from the sport for violating MLB's gambling rules. His lifetime ban, issued in 1989, has fueled decades of debate. Given Donald Trump's history of issuing controversial pardons, the question of a posthumous pardon for Pete Rose frequently resurfaces. This article delves into the likelihood of such a pardon, weighing the arguments for and against, and examining the legal and political implications.

Trump's Pardon History and Criteria

Donald Trump's presidency was marked by a significant number of pardons, some highly publicized and controversial. His choices often seemed driven by a combination of political loyalty, public pressure, and a perceived need for corrective justice. Examples include pardons granted to sports figures like boxer Jack Johnson and the controversial commutation of the sentence for Roger Stone.

• Factors influencing Trump's pardon decisions:
  • Political alliances and loyalty
  • Public opinion and media pressure
  • Claims of injustice or prosecutorial misconduct
  • Personal connections and relationships

Rose's case presents a complex scenario. While he enjoys significant public support among baseball fans, his transgression was a serious violation of MLB rules. A posthumous pardon might be seen by Trump – or potentially another future president – as a way to appease a segment of the population while also making a bold statement. The potential political motivations behind such a move would be considerable, given Rose's iconic status in baseball.

Arguments For a Posthumous Pardon for Pete Rose

Advocates for a posthumous pardon for Pete Rose often cite several compelling points:

• Unparalleled Baseball Contributions: Rose holds the MLB record for career hits, a testament to his unparalleled dedication and skill. His impact on the game is undeniable.
• Overwhelming Public Support: Many baseball fans believe his ban was overly harsh and that he deserves recognition for his achievements. Online petitions and public discussions frequently demonstrate this sentiment.
• Disproportionate Punishment: Some argue that Rose's punishment was disproportionate compared to others who have committed similar offenses in other sports or fields.
• Closure and Recognition: A posthumous pardon could offer closure to Rose's family and legacy, allowing for a more complete recognition of his contributions to baseball without the shadow of the ban.

"Pete Rose's ban overshadows his incredible achievements," argues a prominent baseball historian. "A posthumous pardon would allow fans to properly celebrate his legacy."

Arguments Against a Posthumous Pardon for Pete Rose

Opponents of a posthumous pardon emphasize the following considerations:

• Seriousness of the Violation: Rose's betting on baseball directly violated MLB rules and undermined the integrity of the game. This act carries serious consequences.
• Upholding the Integrity of the Sport: Granting a pardon could be seen as undermining MLB's efforts to maintain the integrity of the sport and deter future rule violations.
• Setting a Precedent: A pardon for Rose could potentially set a dangerous precedent, encouraging others to disregard rules with the hope of future forgiveness.
• Fairness of the Original Ban: While debates continue about the fairness of the original ban, many maintain that the punishment fit the crime, emphasizing the seriousness of betting against one's own team.

"A pardon would send the wrong message," states a former MLB commissioner. "The rules must be upheld, and a posthumous pardon would compromise the integrity of the game."

Legal and Procedural Aspects of a Posthumous Pardon

The legal process for a posthumous pardon varies depending on jurisdiction and the governing body. In Rose's case, a pardon would require a degree of cooperation between the relevant authorities, including potentially the President of the United States (for a federal pardon) and MLB.

• Precedents for Posthumous Pardons: While relatively rare, there are precedents for posthumous pardons, suggesting that such a scenario is not entirely unprecedented.
• Obstacles to a Posthumous Pardon: The major obstacles include securing enough political will and overcoming the resistance of those who believe Rose's ban should stand as a warning. The potential for legal challenges is also a significant consideration.

Conclusion

The question of whether Pete Rose will receive a posthumous pardon from Donald Trump, or any future president, remains uncertain. While arguments both for and against are substantial, the ultimate decision would depend on a complex interplay of political considerations, public opinion, and legal precedent. Trump's willingness to issue highly controversial pardons suggests the possibility isn't completely remote. However, the seriousness of Rose's violation and the potential repercussions of a pardon create significant barriers.

Do you think Pete Rose deserves a posthumous pardon? Share your thoughts in the comments below! #PeteRose #PosthumousPardon #DonaldTrump #MLB