Rangers Extend Washington’s Contract

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The Texas Rangers and manager Ron Washington agreed to a one-year contract extension that takes him through the 2015 season, the team announced on Monday.

Washington was entering the final year of his contract and signing the extension ends questions about possible lame-duck status.

Washington, 61, has been the Rangers’ manager since the 2007 season. He has more wins than any Rangers manager in history (611) and took the Rangers to the World Series in 2010 and 2011, losing both times.

“This was a foregone conclusion certainly in my mind and in the Rangers’ mind going forward that this is the guy that has been our leader through a lot of tremendous times, our field leader, and it’s been a partnership from Day 1,” Rangers president of baseball operations Jon Daniels said, according to ESPN.com. “I expect that to continue for a long time to come.”

The Rangers finished 91-72 last season, and failed to earn a playoff spot by one game.

“I’m very appreciative for the support that the Texas Rangers have given me since I’ve been here,” Washington said, trying to avoid getting choked up. “All I’ve ever wanted to do was just go out there and try to be the best I can for the organization and for my players.