On August 24, 1989 — “In the absence of a hearing and therefore in the absence of any evidence to the contrary, I am confronted by the factual record of the Dowd report, and on the basis of that, yes, I have concluded that he bet on baseball.” – A. BARTLETT GIAMATTI, commissioner commenting on Pete Rose’s lifetime banishment.

“Regardless of what the commissioner said today, I did not bet on baseball.” – PETE ROSE, defending himself at Riverfront Stadium news conference.

Commissioner A. Bartlett Giamatti, stating he believed that Pete Rose had bet on games, including those of the team he managed, announces an agreement that bans Mr. Rose permanently from baseball. The five-page agreement, signed by the commissioner and the Reds manager, does not indicate the suspension is specifically for betting on baseball games and does not include language that Rose wagered bets on games. The ruling will prevent Rose from seeking employment in the major leagues.

Giamatti says that he considers Rose’s acceptance of the ban to be a no-contest plea to the charges.

Coach Tommy Helms is named Rose’s interim replacement as Cincinnati manager.

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Sources:
Baseball Reference August 24
National Pastime August 24
Retro Sheet
Hall of Fame
SABR Games Project
Replay The Game