He last played in a major league game 35 years ago and when he left, Peter Edward Rose, Sr. had left his mark as one of the greatest players in the history of professional baseball. Rose still stands as baseball’s all-time hits leader, with 4,256 to his credit. He was a 17 time All Star, a three time World Series champion, won three batting titles, one MVP award, two time Gold Gloves winner and was named the National League Rookie of the Year in 1963.
He is a member of the MLB All-Century Team and the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame.
He’s also one of the most embattled superstars in the sport’s history. Betting on baseball while managing the Reds in the 1980s means Rose does not have a bust among the legends in Cooperstown.
The indelible mark he left on the diamond cannot be denied though, not only in his massive, measurable, statistical accomplishments but as much in the intangibles and immeasurable imprint he left on the game. He played with a passion and ferocity that was unparalleled.
No matter what you think of him, “Charlie Hustle” is also baseball’s biggest winner, statistically speaking. He has been on the winning side of baseball games than any player in history.
He’s made a nice living signing autographs at shows and during regular gigs in Las Vegas. There’s definitely no shortage of Pete Rose autographs in the hobby.
I caught up to him to talk about the value of his iconic 1963 Topps rookie card, the pride he still takes in signing his name, memorabilia from his career–and more.
