Pete Rose and Shoeless Joe Jackson have been reinstated by MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, allowing them to be considered for the Baseball Hall of Fame. This decision follows a change in MLB policy, where permanent bans now expire upon the individual’s death. Rose’s ban was lifted posthumously, and he could be eligible for Hall of Fame induction as early as 2028 under the Classic Baseball Era committee’s consideration. Shoeless Joe Jackson, banned for his involvement in the 1919 Black Sox scandal, also becomes eligible for consideration under the same criteria.
The Hall of Fame has affirmed that those removed from MLB’s permanently ineligible list will be considered for induction. The Classic Baseball Era committee, which evaluates players whose significant contributions occurred before 1980, will next convene in December 2027 to consider candidates for the 2028 class.
The involvement of former U.S. President Donald Trump, who expressed support for Rose and mentioned a potential pardon, remains speculative regarding its impact on the reinstatement decision. Rose had previously faced legal issues, including a guilty plea for filing false tax returns, which resulted in a prison sentence and fines.
Overall, the reinstatement opens the door for future Hall of Fame consideration for both players, pending the evaluation process by the relevant committees.
