MLB Reinstates Pete Rose, Shoeless Joe Jackson for Hall of Fame Eligibility

Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred has reinstated Pete Rose, "Shoeless" Joe Jackson, and others previously banned for life, making them eligible for the Hall of Fame. This historic decision follows a policy change stating that lifetime bans end upon a player's death, as deceased individuals no longer pose a threat to the integrity of the game. Rose, banned in 1989 for betting on games while managing the Cincinnati Reds, was reinstated eight months after his death, clearing the way for his Hall of Fame consideration as early as 2028. The ruling also affects other banned figures, including members of the 1919 Chicago Black Sox. President Donald Trump had advocated for Rose's reinstatement and discussed the matter with Manfred. Manfred emphasized that the original intent of the ban was to deter misconduct, but with the passing of these players, the punishments have served their purpose.