Decoding the Ownership of the Texas Rangers- Who Calls the Shots in Baseball’s Lone Star State-
Who owns Texas Rangers? This question has been a topic of interest among baseball fans and investors alike. The Texas Rangers, a Major League Baseball team based in Arlington, Texas, have had a complex ownership history since their inception in 1961. Understanding the current and past owners of this storied franchise is essential in appreciating the team’s journey and its impact on the sport.
The Texas Rangers were originally founded as the Washington Senators in 1961. The team’s first owner was Robert Short, who owned the team for just one season before selling it to a group of investors led by William B. DeWitt, Sr. DeWitt became the primary owner of the team, and under his leadership, the Senators moved to Arlington, Texas, in 1972 and became the Texas Rangers.
In 1989, DeWitt’s son, William B. DeWitt, Jr., took over as the principal owner of the Rangers. During his tenure, the team experienced a period of success, including winning the World Series in 2011. However, the DeWitt family faced criticism for their handling of the team’s finances and operations, leading to a change in ownership in 2010.
The new ownership group, led by Ray Davis and Bob Simpson, acquired the Texas Rangers in a $590 million transaction. This group aimed to invest in the team’s facilities, player development, and community initiatives. Under their leadership, the Rangers continued to compete at a high level, reaching the World Series again in 2010 and 2011.
In 2015, the Rangers faced another ownership change when Ray Davis and Bob Simpson sold the team to a group of investors led by Chuck Greenberg, Ray Davis, and Nolan Ryan. This new ownership group, known as Rangers Baseball Express, LLC, brought a fresh perspective and commitment to the team’s future.
The current ownership of the Texas Rangers is a testament to the team’s resilience and adaptability. The ownership group has made significant investments in the team’s facilities, including the construction of the new Globe Life Park in Arlington, which opened in 2020. The new park has become a symbol of the Rangers’ commitment to providing a world-class experience for fans and players alike.
In conclusion, the Texas Rangers have seen several ownership changes throughout their history, each bringing new challenges and opportunities. From Robert Short to the current ownership group, the team has managed to thrive and remain a competitive force in Major League Baseball. Understanding who owns the Texas Rangers is crucial in appreciating the team’s journey and its dedication to excellence on and off the field.
