The sports world recently faced a tough loss with the demise of baseball legend Pete Rose. And amidst it all, the Cincinnati Bengals star Joe Burrow‘s dad, Jimmy Burrow, shared a special story that shines light on the impact Rose had on the game and young athletes. It’s a bittersweet reminder of how sports connect us across generations.

Jimmy had a memorable moment when he got an unexpected phone call from Pete Rose. A friend of Jimmy’s was with Rose and handed him the phone. Pete dove right in, asking, “Are you the one who taught Joe Burrow to play tough like I played baseball?” He also mentioned how much he enjoyed watching Joe play. For Jimmy, getting that call from a baseball great was a humbling experience. All the hard work he put into raising Joe and the toughness he wanted him to have seemed to resonate with someone as iconic as Rose. It must have felt pretty special to know his kid was being recognized in such a way.

Pete Rose passed away at 83, leaving a complex legacy in sports. Rose played 24 seasons, racking up 4,256 hits. Not to forget his three World Series titles and 17 All-Star appearances. As the quintessential tough player, he brought a relentless drive to the game. Despite his gambling issues, his determination and hard work had a lasting effect on players like Joe Burrow.

Since his days at LSU, Joe has been making wave after wave. There, he snagged a Heisman Trophy and led his team to a national championship. Now, as the starting quarterback for the Bengals, he represents the same grit that Rose had during his baseball days. For Rose to call Joe tough says a lot. And it shows how respect can cross the lines between different sports. Both athletes showcase how hard work and perseverance can help them overcome challenges, even if the games they play are different.

Sports connections: Bridging the gap between generations

The relationship between Pete Rose and Joe Burrow is a reminder of how sports can connect people, no matter their age or what they play. Jimmy Burrow’s story is a clear example of how impactful the words of one athlete can be to another, especially when that athlete is a legend like Rose. It highlights that admiration often goes both ways, even among the best in the game.

Growing up in Ohio, Joe Burrow was always surrounded by sports, which helped shape his tenacity. He became a standout during the NFL draft process, emerging as the player the Bengals hoped would turn their fortunes around. It’s no wonder that he’s been able to excel under pressure. He’s had great examples, like Rose, to look up to. Burrow’s journey shows the resilience that both he and Rose display, and it’s incredible to think about how those attributes inspire each other.