In a landmark decision that has sent ripples of joy through the baseball community, Commissioner Rob Manfred announced on May 13, 2025, that Pete Rose, "Shoeless" Joe Jackson, and other deceased players have been removed from Major League Baseball's permanently ineligible list. This ruling opens the door for these iconic figures to be considered for induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York, marking a moment of reconciliation and celebration for fans and families alike.
MLB lifts Pete Rose, ‘Shoeless’ Joe Jackson bans in shocking reversal that opens Hall of Fame paths https://t.co/eXqcK2O7FJ pic.twitter.com/IKiIvGjrSf
— New York Post (@nypost) May 13, 2025
Manfred’s decision, outlined in a letter to attorney Jeffrey M. Lenkov, who championed Rose’s cause, reflects a compassionate and pragmatic stance: A ban’s purpose—to protect the game’s integrity—ceases to apply after a player’s passing. “A person no longer with us cannot represent a threat to the integrity of the game,” Manfred wrote, emphasizing that a lifetime ban already serves as a powerful deterrent. This policy shift lifts the bans of 16 deceased players and one owner, including Rose, Jackson, and members of the 1919 Chicago White Sox implicated in the infamous Black Sox Scandal.
For Rose, the all-time hit king with 4,256 hits, and Jackson, whose .356 career batting average ranks fourth in MLB history, this ruling is a long-awaited opportunity to be judged for their on-field brilliance. Both players, despite their undeniable talent, were excluded from Hall of Fame consideration due to gambling-related bans—Rose for betting on games as the Cincinnati Reds manager in the 1980s, and Jackson for his role in the 1919 World Series scandal.
Wow!!! MLB reinstated both Shoeless Joe Jackson and Pete Rose…make them eligible for a HOF plaque!! pic.twitter.com/BfyqFZ5ItA
— BaseballHistoryNut (@nut_history) May 13, 2025
The decision has sparked widespread optimism, particularly in Cincinnati, where Rose, a hometown hero, remains a beloved figure. Known for his relentless hustle, sharp-elbowed competitiveness, and record-breaking career, Rose’s legacy includes three World Series titles, three batting titles, two Gold Gloves, an MVP Award, and a Rookie of the Year honor. His 1,972 regular-season wins are considered by many to be unmatched in professional sports history.
Pete Rose and Shoeless Joe Jackson issued a joint statement earlier today in response to the Commissioner of Major League Baseball, Rob Manfred. #MLB pic.twitter.com/WmxxwEfZQv
— Mike Nessen (@Mike_Nessen) May 13, 2025
Jackson, meanwhile, dazzled with a .375 batting average in the 1919 World Series, hitting the series’ only home run and committing no errors, despite accepting money from gamblers. His fans, including South Carolina legislators, have long campaigned for his recognition, arguing his performance transcended the scandal.
Off Baseball's banned list:
• Joe Jackson (1919 Black Sox scandal)
• Buck Weaver (Black Sox)
• Eddie Cicotte (Black Sox)
• Lefty Williams (Black Sox)
• Happy Felsch (Black Sox)
• Fred McMullin (Black Sox)
• Swede Risberg (Black Sox)
• Chick Gandil (Black Sox)
• Joe Gedeon (Had "guilty knowledge" of gambling activity in 1919)
• Gene Paulette (Banned in 1920 for associating with gamblers in 1919)
• Benny Kauff (Banned in 1921 despite his acquittal on auto theft charge. Commissioner Kenesaw Mountain Landis deemed him "no longer a fit companion for other ballplayers.")
• Lee Magee (Banned in 1921 over his disputed back salary; elicited evidence of his gambling involvement)
• Shufflin' Phil Douglas (New York Giants player banned after threatening his manager)
• Jimmy O'Connell (Giants player banned in 1924 after offering a bribe to another player)
• Cozy Dolan (Giants coach involved in the O'Connell incident)
• William Cox (Phillies' owner, banned and forced to sell the team in 1943 for betting on baseball)
• Pete Rose (Bet on baseball)
“It's a great day for baseball,” said Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt, a teammate of Rose’s on the 1980 World Series-winning Philadelphia Phillies, in a statement congratulating the Rose family. The sentiment is echoed by fans who see this as a chance to honor players for their contributions to the game, unburdened by past controversies.
Put him in HOF..Pete Rose, 'Shoeless' Joe Jackson reinstated by Major League Baseball, making Hall of Fame election possible - Los Angeles Times https://t.co/vFZn6Kr9x7
— Michael Reagan (@ReaganWorld) May 13, 2025
RELATED: Pete Rose, 'Hit King' and All-Star Cincinnati Reds Player and Manager, Dead at 83
Under current Hall of Fame rules, Rose and Jackson could be eligible for induction as early as summer 2028, pending selection by the Historical Overview Committee and a vote by the Classic Baseball Era Committee in December 2027. A minimum of 12 out of 16 votes is required for enshrinement. Jane Forbes Clark, chairman of the Hall of Fame’s board, welcomed the decision, noting it allows these players to be evaluated for their on-field merits.
Damn shame MLB waited until after Pete Rose’s death but better now than never.https://t.co/oda36lG5MR
— Mark R. Levin (@marklevinshow) May 13, 2025
For Rose’s family and advocates like Lenkov, the fight is far from over. “On behalf of the family, they are very proud and pleased,” Lenkov said, adding that they know Rose would have been “overjoyed” at the news. The attorney plans to work with the Hall of Fame to push for Rose’s induction and will join Reds fans at Great American Ball Park for Pete Rose Night on May 14, 2025, to celebrate his legacy and the hope of his future enshrinement.
— Seth Mandel (@SethAMandel) May 13, 2025
Manfred’s ruling comes at a time when baseball’s relationship with gambling has evolved. With legalized sports betting now embraced by MLB through sponsorships and partnerships, some fans and commentators have argued that players like Rose deserve reconsideration. Rose himself often spoke of seeking a second chance, lamenting the personal and financial toll of his ban, which he estimated cost him $80 million in potential earnings.
It’s a mess because MLB had no actual plan… and to come with this idea after Rose’s death and just throw in Shoeless Joe is weak. There’s never been any real proof that Joe bet on anything. Just call it what it is.. The Pete Rose clause https://t.co/xYOPXf3AQd
— trey wingo (@wingoz) May 13, 2025
While controversies, including Rose’s tax-related prison sentence and Jackson’s role in the Black Sox Scandal, may still spark debate among Hall of Fame voters, the focus now shifts to their extraordinary careers. Rose’s exuberance and Jackson’s natural talent captivated generations, and their stories resonate with fans who value redemption and recognition.
As Reds Nation and baseball fans worldwide rejoice, this decision symbolizes more than a policy change—it’s a chance to heal old wounds and celebrate the game’s enduring spirit. For Pete Rose, who once said he played with unmatched love for baseball, and for Shoeless Joe Jackson, whose bat spoke louder than scandal, the path to Cooperstown is now open. Their legacies, like the game itself, are poised to inspire anew.
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