David Glaskin never imagined that his long history of working with baseball icon Pete Rose would culminate in such a poignant farewell. Rose passed away on Monday at the age of 83.
Just a day earlier, Rose was signing autographs at the Williamson County Agricultural EXPO Park alongside former teammates from the legendary 1970s Cincinnati Reds.
The reunion, inspired by Rose, had been in the works for a year. Glaskin, who organizes the Music City Sports Card, Collectibles, and Autograph Show—an annual event for five years—wanted to bring the Big Red Machine to Nashville this time around.
On that special Sunday, Rose was joined by teammates Dave Concepcion, Tony Perez, George Foster, and Ken Griffey Sr.
Michelle Phelps, an attendee, alongside her husband—a devoted Rose fan for 40 years—was heartbroken upon hearing the news of his passing. “He was an all-around great guy who loved his fans until the very end,” she reflected.
Glaskin agreed, emphasizing that despite his failing health, Rose’s passion for baseball and connection with fans remained strong. On Sunday, he arrived in a wheelchair but spent hours engaging warmly with attendees.
Both Glaskin and Phelps choose to celebrate the joyful memories shared with Rose, recalling funny stories from his younger days and his vast array of baseball statistics.
“I’ll always remember him as one of the greatest baseball players and one of the nicest people I’ve met,” said Glaskin. “I’m truly glad he had the chance to see his teammates one last time.”