"From the standpoint of talent in the game, there's nobody better" - Ohio lawmakers push to end Pete Rose's HOF ban, cite 'hypocrisy' on part of MLB

Pete Rose is a controversial figure for many in the MLB, and while his successful tenure with the Cincinnati Reds is fondly remembered, his betting on baseball games resulted in a life-long ban in 1989. This ban has extended to the Hall of Fame, and while the theory is that when he dies it will be lifted, many want him to experience Cooperstown, which they feel he deserves.

In that endeavor, Bill Seitz and Tom Young are co-sponsoring a resolution on behalf of Ohio legislators, which petitions MLB commissioner Rob Manfred to lift the ban. Setz noted that Rose deserves the honor (via the Cincinnati Enquirer):

"From the standpoint of talent in the game, there's nobody better. Period.

"The wide belief down in Cincinnati is that they'll probably put him in (the Hall of Fame) when he's dead."

He also said that the MLB's connection with gambling sites makes them look "hypocritical," which is a much-discussed topic across the sporting world whenever a betting scandal surfaces.

When Pete Rose discussed betting on baseball

Regardless of whether he deserves to be in the Hall of Fame, Pete Rose's gambling habits were extremely problematic for the MLB. While the league may have links to gambling companies for sponsorship, having players and coaches betting on games threatens the integrity of the sport, especially when it could result in match-fixing.

A line in the sand had been drawn, and the MLB felt Pete Rose had crossed it. Rose discussed his gambling in 2003, telling ABC:

"I bet on baseball in 1987 and 1988. ... That was my mistake, not coming clean a lot earlier.

He went on, explaining how he ended up betting on baseball:

"I think what happens is you're, at the time, you're betting football and then, then what's after football is basketball … and obviously the next thing that follows is baseball. It's just a pattern that you got into.

"People have to understand I wish this would have never happened," he said. "But I can't change it, it's happened. And sitting here in my position, you're just looking for a second chance."

While it is now too late for a second chance in the MLB, it will be interesting to see if Pete Rose gets into Cooperstown.