Pete Rose, Shoeless Joe and politics: Baseball and the real world collide more often than we think

Baseball has always been steeped in mythology, with its pastoral fields, rich history, and sense of magic that sets it apart from the real world. However, recent events have shown that the world of baseball is not immune to the realities of the society in which it operates.

Commissioner Rob Manfred’s decision to lift the permanent bans on Pete Rose and “Shoeless Joe” Jackson upon their deaths has sparked both celebration and controversy. While some see it as a positive step for baseball, others view it as a dark day for the sport. The intersection of baseball and the larger world around it is more evident now than ever before.

Throughout its history, baseball has reflected the values and culture of American society. From sharp-elbowed business dealings in the late 19th century to the racism that kept Black men out of the game until Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier, baseball has been intertwined with the political and social landscape of the country.

The game has faced numerous scandals and controversies, from the Black Sox scandal of 1919 to the issue of free agency and labor unrest. Baseball has also been embroiled in debates about its origins, with competing narratives about where the game truly began.

Despite its efforts to portray itself as a pure and mythical entity, baseball cannot escape the realities of the world around it. As the sport grapples with staying relevant in a rapidly changing sports and entertainment landscape, the myths that once defined it are being challenged.

In the end, the words of Pete Rose ring true: “When guys do books or stories, all I like to see is the truth.” Baseball may have a rich history and a sense of magic, but it is ultimately a reflection of the society in which it exists. As the game continues to evolve, it must confront its past and present in order to shape its future.