THE PETE ROSE DECISION : Legal Opinion : THE KATZ TEXT

Thursday’s statement by Reuven J. Katz, an attorney for Pete Rose:

“Today, Pete Rose and Commissioner A. Bartlett Giamatti settled all matters in dispute arising out of the investigation by major league baseball, which dates back to February, 1989. Pete has agreed to be placed on the ineligible list of major league baseball with the right under the rules of major league baseball to apply for reinstatement after a year. The settlement per its terms is not to be construed as an admission that Pete bet on baseball and the commissioner will make no finding that he bet on baseball. From the outset, Pete has consistently denied that he ever bet on a baseball game and still denies having done so.

“Pete has agreed to conclude this action, recognizing that it is in the best interest of his family, the Cincinnati Reds, major league baseball, the city of Cincinnati and his loyal fans.

“Pete Rose acknowledges his great personal respect for the commissioner and acknowledges that the agreement he has entered into with the commissioner accords him fair and proper treatment. Pete further emphasizes that he has never attacked the rules of baseball and that he agrees that it is important for baseball to maintain its tradition of independence and self-discipline.”