BRIDGEPORT – Pete Rose, the record-holder in hits for Major League Baseball, is in town for one night only to manage the local Bridgeport Bluefish team at The Ballpark at Harbor Yards.
Rose hasn’t participated in an MLB game since August 24, 1989, when he accepted a lifetime ban after allegations that he bet on games. At the time he was manager of the Cincinnati Reds.
Rose got permission to participate in tonight’s game, though the Bluefish are part of the independent Atlantic League franchise which is not under the jurisdiction of MLB. He will coach third base during the game as the Bluefish play the Lancaster Barnstormers, who will be managed by former Red Sox player and manager Butch Hobson.
Earlier today Pete Rose dined with Bluefish fans who were willing to pay $150 for lunch. The team also sold a special package for $250 to fans who wanted to have a private meet-and-greet with the one-time Major Leaguer and get his autograph.