Rose Talking With Selig Banned Baseball Hits Leader Not Ready To Ask To Return

Pete Rose said Monday he has taken a preliminary step in the process of applying for reinstatement to baseball.

Rose, who agreed to a lifetime ban for gambling in 1989, attended his son’s major league debut with the Cincinnati Reds and said afterwards there’s still no timetable for formally applying.

Rose said, however, he has talked to acting commissioner Bud Selig about it.

Asked if he will apply sooner or later, Rose said, “Maybe later.

We’re talking about it. I had a meeting with him (Selig).

The ball is rolling, but I don’t have a specific day. Things like today can’t hurt me.”

Pete Jr. went 1 for 3 in a 7-4 loss to the Kansas City Royals (see roundup). Father and son received prolonged ovations from the crowd of more than 31,000.

Rose’s banishment prevents him from going on the field or into the clubhouse. He bought four tickets for himself and his family and sat in the front row by the Reds’ dugout next to owner Marge Schott.

Schott stepped down as the Reds’ CEO last year after another series of inflammatory comments. Her punishment from major league baseball lasts through next season.

Schott talked to Rose numerous times as the game went on.

“I know everything about the ballclub now. Wow,” said Rose.