Within the last 20 years, hundreds of articles have been written about Pete Rose’s ban from baseball, so I will spare you what has all ready been said. Instead, I’d like to touch more on the effects of his punishment as opposed to the actions that warranted it.

The court of public opinion maintains that the time has come to reinstate him—and I agree, as far as the Hall of Fame goes.

Banning Rose from baseball not only penalizes the man himself, it hurts the sport and denies fans the opportunity to see one of the game’s greatest heroes.

On Wednesday, July 21, the Cincinnati Reds played host to Stephen Strasburg and the Washington Nationals at Great American Ball Park. While most fans were there to see Strasburg, they received a memorable moment with an appearance from the all-time hit king.

What a thrill for the fans, especially the younger ones, to attend a ball game and see one of the greatest players in Major League history.

Rose is undoubtedly a national hero and the sport of baseball can only benefit from lifting the ban.

As the great Cincinnati Reds broadcaster Marty Brennaman said in 2003 when interviewed by NPR, “This is the most forgiving country on earth.” “I think he paid his dues and should be allowed to be reinstated so far as the Hall of Fame is concerned.”

Mr. Selig, let’s puts this issue to rest and do the right thing. Reinstate Pete Rose!

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