Pete Rose, a name synonymous with baseball greatness and controversy, passed away on September 30th at the age of 83 in his Las Vegas apartment. News of his death prompted widespread reactions from fans and the sports community alike. Official documents have now revealed the cause of death and the events leading up to it. This article delves into the specifics of what caused the passing of this iconic figure.
Rose’s death was attributed to hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, according to the Clark County coroner’s office. Diabetes mellitus was also noted as a significant contributing factor. These medical terms describe conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels. Hypertensive cardiovascular disease indicates heart problems arising from high blood pressure, while atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease refers to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, restricting blood flow. The combination of these conditions, exacerbated by diabetes, ultimately led to his death.
Pete Rose, a former Philadelphia Phillies player, is seen during an alumni day event before a baseball game against the Washington Nationals in Philadelphia, August 7, 2022. This image captures Rose in his later years, reflecting on his enduring legacy in baseball.
The discovery of Rose’s passing unfolded when a family member, concerned about not hearing from him for several days, went to his apartment and found him unresponsive. This welfare check was prompted by an earlier hospital visit on September 25th. A person who knew Rose had taken him to the hospital because he was “acting different.” According to reports, this individual described his behavior as simply “different” and requested a comprehensive medical evaluation, including blood and urine tests. However, initial test results reportedly came back normal, showing no immediate cause for alarm.
Despite the seemingly normal test results, concerns lingered. On September 29th, the day before his death, Rose was in contact with someone. However, a text message sent on September 30th went unanswered, leading to further worry and the subsequent welfare check that tragically confirmed his death.
A file photo from October 7, 1980, shows former Cincinnati Reds teammates Pete Rose, then with the Phillies, and Joe Morgan of the Astros watching batting practice before a National League playoff game in Philadelphia. This image highlights Rose’s earlier career and his connections with other baseball legends.
Police reports indicate that several prescription medications, over-the-counter pain relievers, and a partially consumed bottle of NyQuil were found in Rose’s apartment. There was also evidence suggesting he had vomited. While these details paint a picture of his condition in his final days, official documents redacted specific medical information.
Pete Rose’s career began in 1963 with the Cincinnati Reds, marking the start of a journey that would see him play for the Philadelphia Phillies and the Montreal Expos. His on-field achievements are undeniable, but his legacy is also marked by a lifetime ban from Major League Baseball in 1989 due to betting on games. Despite the controversies, his impact on baseball remains significant, and his death marks the end of an era for many fans who followed his career with admiration and, at times, with critical eyes. Ultimately, Pete Rose’s death was a result of serious underlying health conditions, bringing to a close the life of a complex and unforgettable figure in sports history.
