Reacting to MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred’s decision to uphold the lifetime ban against Pete Rose, Donald Trump tweeted, “Can’t believe Major League Baseball just rejected @PeteRose_14 for the Hall of Fame. He’s paid the price. So ridiculous – let him in!”
As I noted in my updated post on the subject, Manfred says his decision doesn’t preclude from entry into the Hall of Fame. But this is sleight of hand. The National Baseball Hall of Fame doesn’t permit players on the ineligible list. And who determines eligibility? Why the MLB Commish, of course.
I’m not surprised Trump takes this position. He is after all in the gambling business and has been around that environment for decades.
With that said, I actually agree with Trump on this one. Although I wonder how many Trump supporters who opposed Rose’s reinstatement now support it because The Donald said so?
On the other hand, this is good politics on Trump’s part. Ohio is always an important state when it comes to presidential politics and the Buckeye state still loves Charlie Hustle. Who knows? If it’s Hillary vs. Trump and it comes down to Ohio, it could be going to bat for Pete Rose is what gets Trump into the White House.
