Rose "Confession Baseballs" Getting National Attention

A group of baseballs bearing a written confession from Pete Rose have been turned over to Robert Edward Auctions. SportsCollectorsDaily has pictures.

Mickey Mantle occasionally used a few curse words when signing baseballs. Pete Rose apparently confessed on some.

The bizarre story of why Rose wrote "I'm sorry..I bet on baseball" above his signature on possibly as many as 300 baseballs is out.

Robert Edward auctions will sell a group of 30 of the "confession balls" as part of their April auction.

Their origin may stem not from a guilty conscience, but rather from Rose's desire to increase his income.

The balls REA is auctioning were part of the Barry Halper estate. Halper's massive collection was sold some time ago, but he apparently acquired several items afterward, including this group of baseballs.

REA President Rob Lifson told SportsCollectorsDaily that he believes 303 exist since Rose numbered each ball with an "of 303" notation. Not nearly that many have surfaced as of yet, however.

Thus far, Rose hasn't responded. Reports indicate the idea may have started with Rose looking for a way to make money from his autograph is some unique way while his book was being published.

Typical Rose single-signed baseballs typically sell for $25-50 each.