Thank You Pudge!

Hello and Happy Monday! Start of a new work week. Things are about to get busy in North Texas.

Timing is everything in baseball and I now give kudos to the Texas Rangers as they prepare for a busy week of home games with the dreaded A.L. East. Tonight the New York Yankees will be in town for a three game set. An off day and then three with the Tampa Bay Rays. I am reminded of a memorable 2010 playoff run in the ALDS and ALCS when I got to watch the fun up close and personal. 

There will be an equal amount of Yankee fans filling up Rangers Ballpark for New York's only appearance of 2012. Ranger fans will get very vocal when the names of A-Rod, Tex, and Derek Jeter are announced and come to the plate. That's a given. 

Prior to the game there will be a tribute given to a person who personified greatness for 21 years as a member of the Rangers, Tigers, Astros, Nationals, and Marlins. Ivan Rodriguez announces his retirement tonight as a Ranger. You can expect an emotional and heartfelt tribute before the first pitch is thrown tonight in Arlington.

I had the honor of seeing Ivan play as a 19 year old while an intern in the OC back in 1991. I also got to watch him do his thing as a Tiger, a Yankee, and a return trip to Arlington 8/18/09. That was an exciting night when Pudge had a three hit performance. Rodriguez would also enjoy a title in 2003 as a Marlins leader behind the plate.

Holder of many Rangers records and multiple All-Star appearances it is being reported that Ivan Rodriguez will be involved with the Texas Rangers organization after he is officially retired. Always a fan favorite and very involved in charitable ventures don't be surprised if you see Pudge in civilian wear while glad handing for the Rangers...or a minor league affiliate (Note: That means you, Frisco Roughriders).

In a week where a second start will commence for Yu Darvish and fans can expect a four hour marathon (as New York likes to work pitch counts) it will be bittersweet to see arguably the greatest Ranger of all time officially retire. That distinction will stay in place until Michael Young hangs them up sometime in 2017.

Thanks Pudge! It was an honor, and a privilege.

Over and out in Big D.

Mr. Will