Rangerfans.com

by Mike Shropshire

Summary: Assigned to cover the Texas Rangers for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram in early 1973, gonzo sportswriter Mike Shropshire looked forward to the perks and padded expense account that went along with the job. He never dreamed he’d have to earn every penny–following arguably the worst team in baseball history. Full of wild games and wilder nights, and the exploits of some of the most extreme characters ever to play the game, this book is Shropshire’s irreverent, behind-the-scenes look at the hell a truly pitiful team can raise between games and innings.

Joe’s Remarks: I wasn’t quite sure what to think of this one either.  I bought it because of the tagline on the front about it being funny.  I admit to not knowing a whole lot about the very early years of the Rangers (I didn’t move here until 1992, and didn’t really follow ’em until 1995), and the thought about reading a book all about them didn’t thrill me.

However, I quickly found out that this was a hysterically funny book.  Mike Shrophsire has a very funny wit, and isn’t afraid to let it fly when talking about the Rangers of this era.  His recollection of events is awesome, and makes for very funny reading.  If you’re a fan of the Rangers, or even if you’re not, GET THIS!  It’s a very great read, although I don’t recommend it for very small kids, as there’s more than just one or two cuss words in there.  Still, for adults, it’s well worth it.

As of Mar 2000, it appears to be out of print (unfortunately) – but the link I provide by clicking on the cover will allow you to order it.  If you can find it on a bookstore shelf, get it now while you still can.

Update Feb 2012: The book is still out of print, but you can buy used copies.  I strongly urge you to.  It’s a warts and all, and rather funny look back at the earliest seasons of Texas Rangers baseball here in the Metroplex.

by The Sporting News

Summary: Nolan Ryan: From Alvin to Cooperstown is a collection of articles and rare photographs from the archives of The Sporting News. With Ryan’s 1999 induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame, this book is the first to capture his entire career in pictures with the New York Mets (’66-’70), California Angels (’71-’79), Houston Astros (’80-’88), and Texas Rangers (’89-’93). Baseball’s all-time strikeout leader and the author of seven no-hitters, Nolan Ryan is in many ways the most remarkable pitcher to ever play the game.

Joe’s Remarks: I got a kick out of this book.  Has a ton of pictures of Nolan through his career, and covers virtually every aspect of his career.  I was fortunate enough to see him pitch one time in Texas (his final Texas appearance), as I hadn’t moved here till December of 1992.  If you’re a fan of Nolan Ryan, then you should probably pick this up.  It’s not the heaviest read ever put together, but it’s a nice tribute to Nolan’s career.

Feb 2012 Remark: I don’t remember reading this book, to be honest.  Wrote this back in the late 90’s when my site posts were MUCH smaller.  I certainly don’t own this book anymore, that’s for sure.  :)

by Eric Nadel

Synopsis: With 300 photos, many in color, a host of interviews, and pertinent statistical matter, this resistible keepsake for any Rangers fan brings readers all the glory of the 1996 season and covers all the drama and color of the 24 seasons that preceded it.

Joe’s Remarks: I loved this book.  My wife gave it to me as a a present in 1997, and it was wonderful!  I can’t recommend this book enough.

I’ve only been a Texas Rangers fan since 1994, and my wife gave me this book as a present in 1997. I knew the Texas Rangers existed before I came to live in the Dallas/Ft. Worth Texas area, but I never thought much of them. I didn’t realize the characters and history of the team. If you’re a casual Rangers fan, or a die hard Rangers fan, then you should have this book. It’s filled with all kinds of informational pieces about the team’s history, going back to the early 70’s when they were the Washington Senators. Focuses heavily on the 1996 season in which they finally made it to the playoffs after about 25 years.

As the Texas Rangers now move into the Alex Rodriguez era, the book probably could stand an update, as a lot has happened since the book was published during the 1997 season, but it’s a great read if you’re into team history.

Feb 2012 Remark:  I wrote this back in 1997 not too long after my then one year wife gave me this.  The book now in Feb 2012 is out of print, and expensive.  Eric has told me a few times the only thing that would make him do a sequel is if the Rangers got the World Series.   I reminded him of that after the 2010 season, and he said that he doesn’t have the time now, he’d probably farm it out to someone when they win.