Pudge rejoins Rangers as special assistant to GM

SURPRISE, Ariz. (AP) -- Ivan Rodriguez has re-joined the Texas Rangers organization as a special assistant to the general manager with several different roles.

Rodriguez made his major league debut as a 19-year-old for the Rangers in 1991. The 14-time All-Star catcher retired as a player last April after 21 seasons, more than half spent in Texas.

The Rangers announced Pudge's return to the organization Thursday. They say he will assist the team in several areas, including international scouting, player instruction on the major and minor league levels and talent evaluation. He will also represent the team in community and marketing endeavors.

Rodriguez traveled to the Dominican Republic with Rangers officials last month. He is expected to join the team in Arizona for spring training for a few days late next week.

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