There is no doubt there are a number of jerks and @$$holes already in the HOF. There is also no doubt that Pete Rose had the numbers to warrant first-ballot selection. However, rules are rules. If the rules are changed to satisfy Rose, or his fans, then why should not rules be changed to suit other violators, whatever they may be guilty of? Do you really want to open that door?
Did Pete Rose earn a spot in the HOF on the field? Yes. Did Pete Rose lose that right due to his actions? Yes. Should he be in the Hall? If you are willing to change the rules to allow others entry, past or future, no matter what their crime, then vote yes - otherwise, vote no. I vote no.
As for steroid use, it is and was definitely cheating - but until quite recently, it was not against the rules as written. Is this fair? Probably not, but that's the fact. Like it, hate it, whatever - unless this violation is grandfathered in, you have no choice but to accept it. As always, just
