Round Rock Express
The Round Rock Express is a professional minor league baseball team based in Round Rock, Texas, competing at the Triple-A level in the Pacific Coast League (PCL) as the primary affiliate of the Texas Rangers of Major League Baseball (MLB).[1][2] Founded in 2000 by Ryan Sanders Baseball—a group including Hall of Famer Nolan Ryan and his family—the Express began play in the Double-A Texas League, where they captured the league championship in their inaugural season.[2] The team relocated to the PCL in 2005, aligning with MLB's reorganization of minor leagues, and has since established itself as a key developmental hub for Rangers prospects, boasting consistent on-field success and record-breaking fan attendance, with over 600,000 spectators per season on average at their home stadium, Dell Diamond.[3][4][2] Initially affiliated with the Houston Astros from 2000 to 2010, the Express transitioned to the Rangers in 2011 following a franchise shift, a partnership that has endured through the 2021 minor league realignment when the team briefly competed in the temporary Triple-A West before returning to the PCL.[2] Dell Diamond, an 11,631-seat ballpark opened in 2000, serves as the team's anchor in the Greater Austin metropolitan area, hosting more than 1,600 games and fostering a vibrant community atmosphere that has earned the venue recognition as one of minor league baseball's premier facilities.[3][4] Over their 26 seasons as of 2025, the Express have posted winning records in multiple campaigns, including 89-60 in 2023 and 77-73 in 2025, though they have yet to secure a PCL title despite reaching the PCL finals several times (2015, 2019, 2023).[2][5][6] The organization has also distinguished itself through player development, sending numerous talents—such as pitchers Jacob deGrom and Adolis García—to the majors, while emphasizing fan engagement and local economic impact in Round Rock.[2]Franchise overview
Team details
The Round Rock Express, a professional baseball team based in Round Rock, Texas, derives its name from the city's historic landmark—a large round rock in Brushy Creek that marked a low-water crossing on the Chisholm Trail—and the express train service that once operated through the area along the International-Great Northern Railroad.[7][8] The "Express" portion also honors co-founder Nolan Ryan's nickname, "The Ryan Express," reflecting both local railroad heritage and the team's ownership ties.[8][9] The team was established in 2000 through the relocation of the Double-A Jackson Generals franchise from Jackson, Mississippi, to Round Rock, where it began play in the Texas League at the newly built Dell Diamond.[10][11] Ownership is held by Ryan Sanders Baseball, a group founded by Baseball Hall of Famer Nolan Ryan—a Texas native and former Houston Astros executive who invested locally to bring professional baseball to the area—along with his sons Reid Ryan and Reese Ryan, and business partner Don Sanders, a former Astros president.[12][13] Nolan Ryan, inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1999 for his record-setting strikeouts and no-hitters, has remained a principal figure in the ownership, emphasizing community engagement and player development.[14] The team's colors are navy blue (#091f40), red (#C8102E), silver (#a2a9ad), and white, which are featured in uniforms, logos, and stadium branding to evoke energy and local pride.[15] The mascot, Spike, is a friendly dog character introduced in 2000, depicted in blue fur with train-themed accessories like a railroad spike collar, symbolizing the team's "E-Train" identity; Spike engages fans through promotions, races, and community appearances at Dell Diamond and beyond.[16][17] As of 2025, the Round Rock Express competes in the Triple-A Pacific Coast League's East Division, following the league's 2021 realignment, and serves as the primary affiliate of the Texas Rangers since that year.[6][1] The official website is milb.com/round-rock, with key social media presence on X (formerly Twitter) at @RRExpress, Instagram at @rrexpress, and Facebook at /ExpressBaseball.[1][18][19][20]Affiliations
The Round Rock Express have maintained a series of player development contracts (PDCs) with Major League Baseball teams, primarily alternating between the Houston Astros and Texas Rangers since their inception. Initially affiliated with the Astros from 2000 to 2010, the team shifted to the Rangers for the 2011 through 2018 seasons, returned to the Astros in 2019 and 2020, and rejoined the Rangers in 2021 with a long-term agreement in place.[9] In terms of minor league progression, the Express operated as a Double-A team in the Texas League from 2000 to 2004 before advancing to Triple-A status in the Pacific Coast League (PCL) starting in 2005, where they have remained since, except for a temporary reclassification during Major League Baseball's 2021 reorganization of the minor leagues. That restructuring reduced the number of minor league teams and realigned them into new temporary leagues, placing the Express in the Triple-A West for the 2021 season before the PCL was restored in 2022 with a 10-team format.[21] Key affiliation shifts were driven by logistical and ownership changes among their MLB partners. The 2010 transition from the Astros to the Rangers occurred after the Astros relocated their existing PCL affiliate to Oklahoma City, allowing the Rangers—previously affiliated with Oklahoma—to partner with the nearby Round Rock team, which was owned by the family of Rangers part-owner Nolan Ryan. In 2018, the Express ended their Rangers affiliation as the Rangers prepared to move their Triple-A operations to a new ballpark in Nashville, prompting a return to the Astros for a four-year deal beginning in 2019. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the 2020 season and contributed to MLB's broader minor league overhaul, leading to the Express accepting an invitation to reunite with the Rangers as their Triple-A affiliate in 2021.[22][23] The current PDC with the Texas Rangers, formalized in February 2021, is a 10-year agreement extending through the 2030 season and underscores Round Rock's role as a key developmental hub for Rangers prospects, facilitating player transitions from lower levels to the majors.[24]History
Establishment and early success
The Round Rock Express were established in 2000 when Ryan Sanders Baseball, an ownership group led by Hall of Famer Nolan Ryan and businessman Don Sanders, purchased the Double-A Jackson Generals franchise from Mississippi and relocated it to Round Rock, Texas, a fast-growing suburb north of Austin. The acquisition occurred after the 1999 season, with the move approved to capitalize on the area's booming population and lack of professional baseball; Round Rock officials had secured voter approval for a new ballpark in late 1998, enabling the relocation over competing bids from Austin. The team debuted as the Double-A affiliate of the Houston Astros in the Texas League, marking the franchise's transition to a new market tied to Ryan's Texas roots—though born in Refugio, Ryan's family legacy in nearby Alvin helped foster local enthusiasm for the venture.[25][26][27] Construction on Dell Diamond began in early 1999 following the 1998 bond election, with the $25 million facility opening ahead of the 2000 season on 85 acres of former farmland east of downtown Round Rock; it featured an initial seating capacity of approximately 7,500, later expanded through additions like berms and suites.[28] The Express played their first home game on April 16, 2000, against the El Paso Diablos, drawing a crowd of 10,699 despite a 4-1 loss, which underscored the immediate community interest in the new team. Managed by Jackie Moore, the inaugural roster blended Astros prospects with veterans, setting the stage for rapid integration into Round Rock's fabric as the city—then home to about 60,000 residents—embraced the franchise amid its suburban expansion driven by tech firms like Dell Technologies.[4][29] In their debut season, the Express posted an 83-57 regular-season record, clinching the Texas League West Division title before advancing through the playoffs with a 3-2 series win over the El Paso Diablos and a 3-1 victory against the Wichita Wranglers in the championship finals, securing the league title on September 7, 2000. Standout performances from Astros prospects fueled the run, including infielder Morgan Ensberg, who hit .300 with 28 home runs and 90 RBIs while earning Texas League postseason All-Star honors. This early triumph not only validated the relocation but also established the Express as a cornerstone of Round Rock's recreational landscape, drawing over 660,000 fans in their first year and boosting local economic ties to Ryan's enduring baseball heritage.[30][31][32]Affiliation shifts
In 2005, the Round Rock Express transitioned to Triple-A baseball by relocating the Edmonton Trappers franchise of the Pacific Coast League (PCL) to Round Rock, Texas, under the ownership of Ryan Sanders Baseball.[2] This move replaced the Trappers in the PCL and elevated the Express from Double-A, while the original Double-A Express franchise was relocated to Corpus Christi as the Hooks.[2] The team remained affiliated with the Houston Astros, serving as their top farm club through the 2010 season. In their inaugural Triple-A campaign, the Express finished with a 74–70 record, placing third in the PCL's American Conference South Division and missing the playoffs.[33][34] The Express' affiliation shifted to the Texas Rangers in 2011 after the Astros relocated their Triple-A operations to the Oklahoma City RedHawks.[24] This change positioned Round Rock as the Rangers' primary minor league affiliate, fostering greater player development traffic between the club and its major league roster in nearby Arlington.[35] The partnership also boosted attendance, with the Express drawing 618,261 fans in 2011—second among all Triple-A teams—and consistently ranking among minor league leaders through 2018.[36][37] In 2019, the Rangers moved their Triple-A affiliation to the Nashville Sounds, prompting the Express to reunite with the Astros for a two-year agreement amid Houston's organizational rebuild. This period aligned with the Astros' efforts to integrate prospects into their system following competitive challenges at the major league level.[38] Following Major League Baseball's 2020–2021 restructuring of Minor League Baseball, which included the contraction of 40 teams and the formation of the Triple-A West league (later reverting to the PCL in 2022), the Express signed a new 10-year player development contract with the Rangers in February 2021.[24][37] The 2020 season's cancellation due to the COVID-19 pandemic had no direct impact on the Express' status, as the team was retained in the reorganized system.[39] By the 2025 season, the Express continued as the Rangers' Triple-A affiliate, supporting prospect development with promotions and shuttles to the major league club. For instance, outfielder Evan Carter, a top Rangers prospect, began the year optioned to Round Rock before his midseason recall, illustrating the affiliation's role in bridging minor and major league pathways.[40] The Ryan family's involvement in these negotiations has helped maintain the team's stability across affiliation changes.[41]Ballpark and operations
Dell Diamond
Dell Diamond, located at 3400 E. Palm Valley Boulevard in Round Rock, Texas, serves as the home ballpark for the Round Rock Express since the team's inception.[1] The stadium was constructed by the City of Round Rock at an initial cost of $25 million, with financing provided through revenue bonds backed by the city's hotel-motel tax, along with contributions from the team's ownership group led by Nolan Ryan and Don Sanders.[28] It opened on April 16, 2000, hosting the Express's inaugural home game against the El Paso Diablos in the Double-A Texas League. The city retains ownership of the facility and leases it to the team under a long-term agreement. The ballpark features a natural grass playing surface and outfield dimensions including a 400-foot distance to center field, left field at 335 feet, and right field at 325 feet.[3] Originally built with approximately 8,800 fixed seats plus capacity for 3,000 on an outfield berm, Dell Diamond has undergone expansions to increase its fixed seating. In 2006, additions included the Nyle Maxwell Home Run Porch in right field and six new luxury suites, boosting amenities for fans.[42] Further growth occurred in 2011 with enhancements to seating and club areas. The current configuration offers 11,631 seats, including 24 luxury suites, expansive picnic areas along the baselines, and a dedicated kids' zone with interactive activities.[3] Modern features encompass an advanced LED video scoreboard, upgraded lighting systems, and a 360-degree concourse for improved circulation.[9] Named for local technology giant Dell Technologies, which secured naming rights prior to opening in a 15-year, $2.5 million deal, the stadium has maintained this sponsorship through multiple renewals, including a 10-year extension in 2012.[43] Beyond baseball, Dell Diamond functions as a multi-purpose venue, hosting concerts, community events, and high school athletic competitions, contributing to its role as a regional hub.[44] In response to the Express's affiliation shift from the Houston Astros to the Texas Rangers in 2021, the stadium underwent significant renovations initiated in 2023 and completed in April 2025, including a $4.3 million project to upgrade concourses, fan amenities, and add a new visiting team clubhouse to meet Minor League Baseball standards.[45][46][47] The project was completed in April 2025, enhancing player facilities and fan amenities in line with MiLB standards.[47] These improvements have enhanced the fan experience, with attendance trends reflecting boosts during periods of team success.[28]Attendance and records
The Round Rock Express have maintained strong fan engagement at Dell Diamond since their inception, with all-time records reflecting peaks during their early Triple-A years. The franchise's highest single-game attendance was 13,475, set on June 16, 2006, during a game against the Oklahoma RedHawks.[48] The highest seasonal total came in 2005, their first year as the Houston Astros' Triple-A affiliate, drawing 700,277 fans across 72 home games for an average of 9,726 per game.[49] Conversely, the lowest average attendance occurred in 2021 amid ongoing pandemic restrictions, with 305,742 total tickets sold over an estimated 72 home games, yielding roughly 4,246 fans per game—a 49% drop from 2019 levels.[50] Attendance trends have varied by affiliation era, with the highest sustained averages during the Astros partnership from 2005 to 2010, often exceeding 8,500 per game and peaking at 9,726 in 2005.[49] By the mid-2010s, figures stabilized around 8,000–8,600 averages, as seen in 2011 (618,261 total, 8,587 average) and 2016 (613,226 total, leading the Pacific Coast League).[51][52] Recent years reflect post-pandemic recovery challenges, though the Express consistently rank in the PCL's top five for attendance, such as third overall in Triple-A in 2016.[52] In 2025, the Express drew a total of 354,867 fans over 72 home games, averaging 4,929 per game, influenced by promotional events including Copa de la Diversión games that boosted attendance by 19% compared to standard matchups.[53][54] This figure aligns with broader minor league trends of modest declines but benefits from Round Rock's population growth to 141,964 residents, enhancing local draw.[55] Key influencing factors include affiliation stability with the Rangers since 2021, which has helped rebuild ties through rehab assignments of stars like Jacob deGrom, alongside Nolan Ryan-led promotions such as Hall of Fame nights and regional events like exhibition games.[56] These elements have positioned the Express as a consistent PCL attendance leader, often surpassing league averages by 10–20%.[52]Competitive history
Season-by-season performance
The Round Rock Express have competed in Minor League Baseball since their inaugural season in 2000, initially as a Double-A affiliate in the Texas League before transitioning to Triple-A in the Pacific Coast League (PCL) in 2005. Their performance has varied across affiliations and league structures, with notable success in playoff appearances during their early years and consistent competitiveness in recent Triple-A seasons. The following table summarizes their regular season records, divisions, finishes, and postseason outcomes through the 2025 season.[2][57]| Year | League | Division | W-L | Win % | Finish | Postseason Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2000 | Texas League | West | 83-57 | .593 | 1st | Won Texas League championship (defeated Wichita Wranglers 3-1 in finals) |
| 2001 | Texas League | West | 86-54 | .614 | 1st | Lost Texas League finals (swept by Arkansas Travelers 0-2) |
| 2002 | Texas League | West | 75-65 | .536 | 4th | Lost in first round (defeated by San Antonio Missions in semifinals) |
| 2003 | Texas League | West | 46-94 | .329 | 8th | Did not qualify |
| 2004 | Texas League | West | 86-54 | .614 | 1st | Lost Texas League finals (defeated by Springfield Cardinals) |
| 2005 | PCL | American South | 74-70 | .514 | 3rd | Did not qualify |
| 2006 | PCL | American South | 85-59 | .590 | 1st | Lost PCL finals (defeated by Tucson Sidewinders) |
| 2007 | PCL | American South | 61-81 | .430 | 4th | Did not qualify |
| 2008 | PCL | American South | 64-79 | .447 | 3rd | Did not qualify |
| 2009 | PCL | American South | 63-81 | .438 | 4th | Did not qualify |
| 2010 | PCL | American South | 57-87 | .396 | 4th | Did not qualify |
| 2011 | PCL | American South | 87-57 | .604 | 1st | Lost in first round (defeated by Omaha Storm Chasers) |
| 2012 | PCL | American South | 69-75 | .479 | 3rd | Did not qualify |
| 2013 | PCL | American South | 73-71 | .507 | 2nd | Did not qualify |
| 2014 | PCL | American South | 70-74 | .486 | 3rd (tie) | Did not qualify |
| 2015 | PCL | American South | 78-66 | .542 | 1st | Lost PCL finals (defeated by Nashville Sounds) |
| 2016 | PCL | American South | 71-72 | .497 | 2nd | Did not qualify |
| 2017 | PCL | American South | 66-72 | .478 | 3rd | Did not qualify |
| 2018 | PCL | American South | 65-73 | .471 | 3rd | Did not qualify |
| 2019 | PCL | American South | 84-56 | .600 | 1st | Won first round (defeated Iowa Cubs 3-2); lost PCL finals (swept by Oklahoma City Dodgers 0-2) |
| 2020 | PCL | N/A | 0-0 | N/A | N/A | Season cancelled due to COVID-19 |
| 2021 | Triple-A West | N/A | 67-62 | .519 | 3rd | Did not qualify |
| 2022 | PCL | East | 79-71 | .527 | 2nd | Did not qualify |
| 2023 | PCL | East | 89-60 | .597 | 2nd | Lost PCL finals (defeated by Oklahoma City Dodgers) |
| 2024 | PCL | East | 71-77 | .480 | 3rd | Did not qualify |
| 2025 | PCL | East | 77-73 | .513 | 3rd | Did not qualify |
Championships and awards
The Round Rock Express won their only league championship in 2000, their inaugural season as a Double-A affiliate in the Texas League, defeating the Wichita Wranglers 3-1 in the best-of-five finals.[29] The team has reached the Pacific Coast League finals four times since moving to Triple-A in 2005, losing to the Tucson Sidewinders in 2006, the Nashville Sounds in 2015, the Oklahoma City Dodgers in a 2-0 sweep in 2019, and the Oklahoma City Dodgers in 2023.[60][61] The Express have secured seven division titles across their affiliations: 2000 and 2001 in the Texas League West Division, 2004 in the Texas League West Division, 2006 in the PCL American Conference South Division, 2011 in the PCL American Conference West Division, 2015 in the PCL American Southern Division, and 2019 in the PCL American Southern Division.[62][2][38] They have also claimed three conference titles: 2006 and 2019 in the PCL American Conference, and 2011 in the PCL American Conference.[31][63][64] Overall, the team has made 9 playoff appearances, advancing with five series wins, including a notable 2000 wild card upset en route to the Texas League title.[2][65] In addition to on-field achievements, the Express organization has received several honors, including the John Henry Moss Community Service Award and the Bob Freitas Triple-A Organization of the Year at the 2023 Minor League Baseball Winter Meetings.[66] For the 2025 season, infielder/outfielder Cody Freeman earned team Most Valuable Player honors after leading Minor League Baseball in batting average, along with a Pacific Coast League All-Star selection.[67][68] The team's alternate identity, the Chupacabras de Round Rock, was named the 2025 Copa de la Diversión Champion for excellence in cultural engagement and promotion.[54]Players and staff
Current roster
The Round Rock Express entered the 2025 season with a preliminary roster of 31 players announced on March 26, featuring 18 pitchers and 13 position players, of which 15 were returnees from prior years including RHP Joe Barlow, OF Evan Carter, INF Blaine Crim, and RHP Dane Dunning.[69] The active roster maintained a standard Triple-A composition of 28 players (16 pitchers and 12 position players) throughout the year, drawn from the Texas Rangers' 40-man roster and organizational depth, with frequent turnover due to MLB promotions, trades, and injuries.[70] Key highlights included top Rangers prospects such as RHP Emiliano Teodo (No. 6 overall) and INF Justin Foscue (No. 15), alongside international talent representing multiple Latin American countries.[69] A notable midseason transaction was the signing of veteran RHP Craig Kimbrel to a minor league contract on June 10, followed by his assignment to Round Rock on June 12, where he made several relief appearances.[71][72] The team concluded the 2025 Pacific Coast League season with a 77-73 record, finishing third in the East Division and experiencing significant roster flux, including 12 players promoted to the majors and several injury placements that prompted call-ups from Double-A Frisco.[6] RHP Emiliano Teodo, a standout prospect, was sidelined on the 7-day injured list retroactive to June 5 due to an unspecified injury, missing approximately two months before returning in August.[71][73]Pitchers
The pitching staff blended veteran relievers, returning starters, and high-upside arms, with examples including:| Player | Throws | Height/Weight | DOB | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cory Abbott | R | 6'2", 220 lbs | 03/09/1998 | Acquired midseason; 6.48 ERA in 20 appearances. |
| Dane Acker | R | 6'2", 189 lbs | 04/01/1999 | Returnee; started Opening Day.[69] |
| Robby Ahlstrom | L | 6'3", 200 lbs | 07/02/1997 | Acquired from trade; 2.89 ERA in relief. |
| Joe Barlow | R | 6'2", 215 lbs | 09/15/1995 | Returnee; 15 holds.[69] |
| Emiliano Teodo | R | 6'2", 185 lbs | 10/23/2000 | Top prospect; 9.00 ERA overall.[69][71] |
| Dane Dunning | R | 6'4", 220 lbs | 10/07/1994 | Returnee; spot starter with MLB shuttles.[69] |
Catchers
The catching group provided defensive stability and power potential:| Player | Bats/Throws | Height/Weight | DOB | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tucker Barnhart | S/R | 5'8", 198 lbs | 04/18/1991 | Veteran leader; .214 AVG, strong framing.[69] |
| Konner Piotto | R/R | 6'0", 205 lbs | 11/24/1997 | Returnee from Canada; backup role.[69] |
| Chad Wallach | R/R | 6'1", 225 lbs | 04/30/1991 | Power bat; 4 HRs.[69] |
Infielders
Infielders emphasized versatility and on-base skills, with Crim anchoring first base:| Player | Bats/Throws | Height/Weight | DOB | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blaine Crim | R/R | 6'2", 200 lbs | 10/25/1996 | Returnee; .284 AVG, PCL hits leader.[69] |
| Justin Foscue | R/R | 6'0", 195 lbs | 03/16/1999 | Prospect; .261 AVG, multi-position.[69] |
| Cody Freeman | L/R | 6'1", 205 lbs | 01/24/2000 | Shortstop; 19 HRs.[69] |
| Jonathan Ornelas | R/R | 6'0", 190 lbs | 05/29/1998 | Returnee; utility infielder.[69] |
| Alan Trejo | R/R | 5'10", 185 lbs | 02/13/1996 | Third base; defensive specialist.[69] |
Outfielders
The outfield mixed speed, power, and prospect upside, led by Carter's return:| Player | Bats/Throws | Height/Weight | DOB | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Evan Carter | L/L | 6'1", 205 lbs | 08/29/2001 | Top prospect returnee; .207 AVG.[69] |
| Sam Haggerty | S/R | 5'11", 185 lbs | 05/04/1993 | Speed threat; 25 SBs.[69] |
| Dustin Harris | R/R | 6'1", 195 lbs | 05/14/1995 | Returnee; platoon outfielder.[69] |
| Trevor Hauver | L/R | 5'11", 205 lbs | 11/20/1997 | Returnee; .265 AVG.[69] |
| Kellen Strahm | L/L | 6'0", 190 lbs | 10/03/1997 | Returnee; corner outfield.[69] |