Reaction to the death of Pete Rose

“Our hearts are deeply saddened by the news of Pete’s passing. He was one of the fiercest competitors the game has ever seen, and every team he played for was better because of him. Pete was a Red through and through. No one loved the game more than Pete and no one loved Pete more than Reds Country. We must never forget what he accomplished.”

— Reds principal owner Bob Castellini.

“Pete Rose’s 24-year playing career left an indelible mark on baseball history. With his 4,256 career hits and 17 All-Star appearances at an unprecedented five different positions, Rose was a crucial cog in ‘The Big Red Machine’ teams of the 1970s. ... The players’ association offers our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and many fans, especially those in his beloved hometown of Cincinnati.”

— Major League Baseball Players’ Association statement.

“The Phillies are saddened to learn of Pete Rose’s passing. He will always be remembered for his grit and hustle, and for playing an integral role in bringing the team its first World Series championship.”

— Philadelphia Phillies statement.

“I was saddened by the news of Pete’s passing. My heart goes out to his family. I was lucky that I got to play with Pete and to watch him everyday. As a teammate, he boosted my confidence, he made me laugh and kept me loose. He taught me to enjoy the game, perhaps the advice that I needed the most.”

— former Phillies third baseman Mike Schmidt.

“Words can’t describe how I feel right now my Idol and friend growing up wanting to be Pete Rose you’ll be dearly missed my friend RIP my Brother.”

— Former major leaguer and Hall of Famer Wade Boggs.

“Absolutely heartbroken to hear the devastating news about Pete Rose’s passing. ... He always brought a smile to my face when we worked together at Fox. He was true original and 1 of 1. Nobody loved baseball more than Pete and I’ll miss him terribly.”

— Former major leaguer and Fox broadcaster Alex Rodriguez.

“RIP Pete Rose. Another player than should be in the HOF.”

— Former MLB slugger Jose Canseco.