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EXCERPT | Aug. 7, 1978

Single-Minded

Charlie Hustle was unflappable in his run at DiMaggio's 56

When Pete Rose put together a 44-game hitting streak—the third-longest in history—he was never bothered by the pressure, Larry Keith reported.

Of all the accomplishments of Rose's lustrous 16-year career, none brought quite the acclaim that was generated by the streak. He has been Rookie of the Year and MVP, he has played in 11 All-Star Games and four World Series, he has led the league in hitting three times, and on May 5 he got his 3,000th hit. But those achievements were just a prelude to the streak, which, says teammate Tom Seaver, "is a reaffirmation" of who Pete Rose really is.

Last week Rose taped segments for Good Morning America with David Hartman, Today with Dick Schaap and Donahue with Phil Donahue. He received telegrams from a stripper and a governor, notes of congratulation from former teammates, a card of thanks from the vendors at Shea Stadium, a phone call from a Jimmy Carter impersonator and loud cheers every time he showed his head outside the dugout. Unlike many athletes who complain about the pressures of fame in their moments of triumph, Rose maintained his composure, his wit and his batting stroke through it all. "If this were some other player, it might cause problems," said manager Sparky Anderson, "but not with Pete. He represents us."

It was true, as one New York City cop shouted to him, "Your life's not your own, Pete," but Rose did not seem to mind. "I like pressure situations," he says. "They're fun. When people are urging me on, I can do things that are impossible sometimes."

Rose's streak was stopped by the Braves in Atlanta on Aug. 1, when he went 0 for 4, including a strikeout that ended the game.

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