This whole discussion is whether Rose should be permitted to have his name submitted to the baseball writers for possible induction to the HOF. Induction would be the inclusion of a bronze plaque hanging in a wing of the building with baseball's notables. It will not repair any of Rose's shortcomings.
I followed with great fondness Rose's career. But, unfortunately, he crossed the line. The evidence against him was overwhelming. There has been no credible refutation of the evidence gathered and shared publicly. No evidence has been submitted by him, or those on his behalf. He chose not to contest it before Commissioner Giamatti, and voluntarily accepted a lifetime suspension by being put on the inelgible list.
I seem to recall that Willie Mays had a similar problem after he retired. He associated with gamblers and Vegas interests. He was asked to disassociate from those individuals and interests. He did so. Rose had an opportunity to do the same. He did not. So, my assessment for Rose is that "a deal is a deal." He should have stood and fought at that time rather than let the evidence trail grow 13 years old.
His intransigence in addressing his errors is intolerable. My memory is that other than his friend Joe Morgan, other HOFers oppose his name being put on a ballot. Two come to mind: Al Kaline and Johnny Bench (a former teammate of Rose).
His is indeed a sad circumstance. I wish him the best, but he should not be removed from the ineligible list even if he shows contrition. But, of course he will never express remorse. This situation has allowed me to have meaningful discussions with my 15 year old son.
Gwjack