This weekend, Cooperstown, New York, will once again become a pilgrimage site for baseball fans as they gather to witness the induction of fresh faces into the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Among the significant figures is the legendary Pete Rose, whose legacy as the all-time MLB hits leader has been a topic of immense debate. Rose passed away in September at 83, but with his removal from the permanently ineligible list by Commissioner Rob Manfred earlier this year, he is now considered for Hall of Fame election. While he is not technically a Hall of Famer, Rose's contributions to baseball are deeply enshrined in the Hall's exhibits through numerous artifacts donated over the years.

These include a jersey from his MVP-winning season of 1973, memorabilia from the game where he tied Stan Musial's hits record, and a bat marking his 3,000th hit. His influence is further highlighted in various exhibits that recount his storied career and the controversies surrounding his gambling scandal, which led to a 1989 ban from the sport. The ongoing discussions regarding his eligibility and the implications of his potential induction will likely persist as the Historical Overview Committee prepares for its next meeting in 2027. Regardless of his Hall of Fame status, Rose's presence and impact on the sport remains significant.

The Cincinnati Reds boast a rich history of talented players, with over 100 MLB All-Stars gracing the roster. A recent compilation showcases the all-time Reds All-Star team, featuring legends like Johnny Bench, widely recognized as the greatest catcher in baseball history. The list also includes Hall of Famers such as Pete Rose, a versatile player with 17 All-Star selections, and Joe Morgan, who defined second base excellence during his time. The outfield trio of Frank Robinson, Eric Davis, and the Griffey duo exemplifies the team's proud legacy.

Current Reds stars Elly De La Cruz and Andrew Abbott are poised to join this esteemed lineage at the 2025 MLB All-Star Game. Each position on the all-time team has been meticulously filled, reflecting the players' contributions during their careers and their impact on the franchise. This curated team honors both past and present talents, celebrating the Reds' storied place in baseball history.

Elly De La Cruz has etched his name further into the history of the Cincinnati Reds by reaching 100 hits before the All-Star break in 2025, a feat only previously accomplished by Barry Larkin. His achievement, marked by a first-inning single against the Miami Marlins, places him in an elite company—joining Larkin’s historic years of 1989 and 1993, as well as Pete Rose, who achieved this milestone 12 times in his career.

De La Cruz's ability to make history at such a young age highlights his potential as a cornerstone player for the Reds. Following this impressive accomplishment, he is set to make his second consecutive appearance at the MLB All-Star Game in Atlanta, underscoring his rapid rise in the league. As the Reds prepare for their upcoming series against the Colorado Rockies, all eyes will be on De La Cruz as he continues to set the bar higher for future generations of players.