I’ve filed my position paper on the potential reinstatement of Pete Rose. It’s only the integrity of the game that we’re talking, and I’m completely, stultifyingly, drooling-in-my-beer bored by the whole “controversy”. I will say the news that Bud Selig actually met with Rose makes it the most proactive thing Bad Rug Bud has done since he started laying out his pants the night before, but then that’s not setting the bar very high.

To the extent that I care, I’m fine with a limited reinstatement of Rose provided he comes clean about his gambling — and by coming clean he addresses the nuts and bolts of the accusations against him rather than issuing a blanket apology — completes an extensive treatment program for his gambling problem, passes through a probation period of five years, and never is allowed to work as a GM, manager, or coach for a major-league team (ceremonial executive, roving hitting instructor, and haircut consultant are all fine by me). Five years of absolutely sparkling citizenship later, make him eligible for election to the Hall of Fame. Mention the ban on the plaque. And then seal him in a tomb with John Dowd, Fay Vincent, and Selig for eternity.

John Perricone of Only Baseball Matters has made his site into a forum on the issue. If you’re not getting enough of the mainstream coverage, check it out; he’s got some links and exchanges there that you might find interesting.