Baseball legend Pete Rose passed away on Monday at the age of 83.
“Charlie Hustle” was known as “The Hit King” as he holds the MLB record for most career hits with 4,256. He also holds the all-time record in plate appearances (15,890), at-bats (14,053), and games played (3,562).
Rose spent 24 years in the majors with three different franchises. Most of Rose’s career was spent in Cincinnati as a member of the Reds from 1963 to 1978 before. After that, Rose was with the Philadelphia Phillies for five seasons and played 95 games with the Montreal Expos in 1984 before returning to Cincinnati where he spent his final three years.
Over his illustrious career, Rose was a 17-time All-Star, the 1973 National League MVP, a two-time Gold Glove winner, won three World Series, took home the batting title three times, and other accomplishments.
His legacy in baseball will be forever cemented as he finished with a .303 batting average and scored the sixth most runs ever with 2,165. At his peak, Rose was a dominant force and had a 44-game hit streak during the 1978 season.
The Hit King’s passing and legacy however come without controversy. Rose despite being recognized by many as an all-time great in the sport isn’t in the Baseball Hall of Fame. Rose’s actions, betting on games while being a manager have held him out of Cooperstown and created much discussion amongst the sports world. Rose later expressed regret after admitting to gambling on games and has yet to be voted into the hall.
Rose’s love for the game was unmatched and he’ll forever be a baseball icon.
“I’d walk through hell in a gasoline suit to play baseball,” said Rose.