Ryan linked up with Chuck Greenberg to buy the franchise from former Liverpool co-owner Tom Hicks last August in a deal valued at US$590 million. Greenberg became chief executive officer of the Rangers before leaving in March and selling his stake in the club.
Ryan stepped in to become CEO following Greenberg’s departure, and his position was ratified on Thursday during the quarterly joint meeting of the 30 MLB owners. The vote was unanimous.
Ryan, who picked up a MLB record 5,714 strikeouts during his career, will now vote for the Rangers on all matters during future League meetings. Ryan will also be accountable to MLB for the operations of the club.
“Actually, that was the first item of business,” MLB commissioner Bud Selig told reporters after the meeting. “There was an intense debate that maybe lasted about 12 seconds. Maybe it didn't even last 12 seconds. It was very quick, done, over. He's done a remarkable job there the last couple of years.”
