In an interview conducted shortly before his passing, Pete Rose, the MLB all-time hits leader, indicated he anticipated posthumous induction into the Hall of Fame. He voiced concerns that such an induction would not meet the expectations of his family or fans.

Rose, who faced a lifetime ban from the league in 1989 due to gambling violations, stated in the interview his hope of being inducted after death, expressing skepticism regarding any potential recognition while alive.

“I’ve come to the conclusion – I hope I’m wrong – that I’ll make the Hall of Fame after I die,” he remarked.

This sentiment raises questions about the significance of the Hall of Fame for both players and their supporters. Rose believes that honoring him posthumously strips away the essence of what the Hall represents for families and fans.

He further argued about the motives behind such recognitions:

“What good is it going to do me or my fans if they put me in the Hall of Fame a couple of years after I pass away? What’s the point?”

Despite ongoing discussions and calls for the ban to be lifted, no official action has yet been taken, with strong opposition remaining based on his gambling actions.