Nolan Ryan reportedly returning to the Astros

June 1, 2012; Anaheim, CA, USA; Former California Angels pitcher and Texas Rangers president Nolan Ryan is presented before throwing the honorary first pitch at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

It has been speculated that former Texas Rangers CEO Nolan Ryan could be going to work the Houston Astros.  Today, it appears that deal is closer to being complete.

It is being reported that Nolan Ryan and the Houston Astros agreed to a deal that will make him a special assistant to the owner of the Astros, Jim Crane.

Also, it appears that Ryan won’t have an office or be required to live in Houston.  Jeff Wilson tweets.

Since Nolan Ryan departed the Texas Rangers on October 31, it was rumored and figured my many he wouldn’t stay out of baseball very long.  And Jim Crane let everyone know that he wanted Nolan to come work with the Astros.  Now the Astros have two Ryans, with Nolan’s son Reid as the President.

"“It would be exciting to work with [Reid] in the Astros organization,” Ryan told the Houston Chronicle last month. “The Astros have always had a special place in our hearts. Reid grew up around the Astros organization.” (NBC Dallas – Adam Boedeker)"

Ryan commented on his potential role last month

“It’s not the same type of role by any means that I would do with the Astros versus what I would do with the Rangers.”  

It is apparent that Ryan won’t be as much as a figure head as he was with the Texas Rangers, but he’ll still have a big impact in Houston.