Texas Rangers CEO Nolan Ryan announced his retirement Thursday, effective Oct. 31, via press release.
Ryan was named Rangers president in February 2008 and then became the CEO of the ballclub in 2011.
Here is Ryan's statement, from the press release:
“This is the right time for me to step down from my role of overseeing the Rangers organization,” said Ryan. “I am extremely proud of what this organization has accomplished. On the field, we have enjoyed great success at the major league level. The fans have supported us in record numbers the last two years and we have been able to upgrade the ballpark and enhance the in-game experience to reward that loyalty.
“We have a group of talented and passionate employees who have helped make this success possible. This organization is in good hands. I am leaving with a lot of great memories from my tenure here and I know the organization will continue to thrive in the years to come.”
“Under Nolan’s leadership and guidance over the last six years, the Rangers organization has made enormous strides both on and off the field,” said Rangers Co-Chairmen Ray Davis and Bob Simpson. “Nolan has meant so much to this franchise and to our fans. We thank him for his many contributions, including his role in helping to develop one of the finest baseball operations staff in the game.
“Today we turn the page on what we believe is a very bright future for this organization. We wish Nolan all the best.”
Ryan, 66, also played his final five seasons for the Rangers.
Since Ryan initially took a job with the front office, the Rangers have seen unprecedented franchise success. Before 2008, the Rangers had been to the playoffs only three times in franchise history. In fact, they had finished with a winning record only 15 times since moving to Texas before the 1972 season.
Since 2008, though, the Rangers have gone to the playoffs three times, the World Series twice and posted a winning record for five straight seasons, a franchise record.
