Brennaman Questions Timing of Rose’s Comeback

Marty Brennaman, a veteran broadcaster for the Reds, expressed his confusion over Major League Baseball’s decision to reinstate Pete Rose shortly after his passing. This announcement came from MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, who stated that Rose would be removed from the permanently ineligible list along with 16 other players.

Brennaman, who called Reds games from 1974 until retiring in 2019, acknowledged the good news about Rose potentially entering the Baseball Hall of Fame but wished it had occurred while Rose was still alive. “I’m just trying to reconcile in my heart,” he shared in an interview. “And now, just months after Pete’s death in September, they announce in a significant way that they’ve lifted the suspension—almost like a ‘shoeless’ Joe Jackson moment.”

He commented on Rose’s lengthy suspension, feeling that he had suffered enough during that period. The news has been met positively by Reds fans and Rose’s family since it broke on Tuesday.

The change followed extensive efforts from Rose’s lawyer, Jeffrey Lenkoff, including discussions with Manfred and Rose’s family members. Brennaman noted that Rose understood he would not be fully welcomed back into baseball until his death. “He told many people he hoped it would happen while he could still enjoy it,” Brennaman remarked, adding that ultimately, he believed being in the Hall of Fame mattered more for Rose’s family than for him.

Rose’s son, Pete Jr., reflected similar feelings during a recent dedication for his father. “It’s a decision they made, and it’s great, but it doesn’t bring my dad back,” he said. He emphasized the human aspect of the situation, stating, “I’m still dealing with the absence of a father. I haven’t even had a year yet.” He recognized his father’s legendary status but reminded people that he is still just “Dad,” which complicates things emotionally.