For over a century, the infamous 1919 Black Sox Scandal has haunted baseball history. But now, 74 years after his death, legendary outfielder "Shoeless" Joe Jackson and his seven teammates are officially reinstated to baseball by Commissioner Rob Manfred.
In a letter first reported by ESPN’s Don Van Natta Jr., Manfred announced that Jackson, Eddie Cicotte, Happy Felsch, Chick Gandil, Fred McMullin, Swede Risberg, Buck Weaver, and Lefty Williams are no longer banned from the sport.
The decision opens the door for Jackson to be considered for induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
The eight were banned in 1921 by Commissioner Kenesaw Mountain Landis, accused of fixing the 1919 World Series, despite being acquitted in court.
Jackson’s legacy, long debated among fans and historians, was immortalized in classics like "Eight Men Out" and "Field of Dreams."
Adding to the bombshell, MLB also reinstated Pete Rose, the all-time hits leader, who was banned in 1989 for betting on games.
Justice, some say, has finally arrived but like a century late.
Per Sports Illustrated