Baseball legend Pete Rose, a name synonymous with unwavering dedication and record-breaking achievements on the field, has passed away at the age of 83. For fans, Rose was more than just a player; he was a “Pet Rose” of the sport, cherished and admired for his relentless spirit and unparalleled hitting prowess. Now, the official cause of death for this iconic figure has been disclosed, bringing closure to his remarkable, albeit controversial, life story.
The Clark County Coroner’s Office in Nevada has confirmed that Pete Rose’s death was attributed to natural causes, specifically hypertension and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, puts significant strain on the heart, while atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease involves the buildup of plaque in the arteries, hindering blood flow. These conditions, as detailed by medical experts at the Mayo Clinic, are serious health concerns that can lead to severe complications.
Rose’s passing marks the end of an era for baseball. His career was defined by his exceptional talent and an unyielding passion for the game, earning him the title of MLB’s all-time hits leader. However, his legacy is also marked by a ban from baseball in 1989 due to gambling on Cincinnati Reds games during his time as manager. This controversy, while casting a shadow, never diminished the adoration many fans held for Rose, their “pet rose” in the often thorny world of professional sports.
Just days before his death, Rose made his final public appearance at the Music City Sports Collectibles and Autograph Show in Nashville, Tennessee. He was seen in a wheelchair, reuniting with former teammates Dave Concepcion, George Foster, Tony Perez, and Ken Griffey Sr. This poignant reunion offered a final glimpse of camaraderie and shared history for these baseball icons.
Johnny Bench, another Cincinnati Reds legend, expressed sadness at Rose’s passing during an appearance on “The Dan Patrick Show.” Bench had attended the same collectibles show and recounted concerns raised by other teammates about Rose’s declining health. “The guys were very concerned about him on Sunday because they said he just wasn’t the same old Pete,” Bench shared, highlighting the worry among Rose’s peers in his final days.
Court documents from 2018 divorce proceedings revealed Rose’s own acknowledgment of his deteriorating health. He stated he was “currently disabled and can barely walk or travel,” and his lawyers disclosed he was on blood thinners and had undergone multiple heart procedures in recent years. These details underscore the severity of his health issues leading up to his death.
Pete Rose’s life was a complex tapestry of extraordinary athletic achievement and personal struggles. While his career was marked by both triumphs and tribulations, his impact on baseball remains undeniable. The revelation of his cause of death provides a somber but definitive endnote to the story of a true baseball “pet rose,” remembered by many for his contributions to the sport.
Contributing: Erin Couch, Dan Horn; Cincinnati Enquirer
