The Round Rock Express joined the Pacific Coast League in 2000 and the team’s owners include Baseball Hall of Fame member Nolan Ryan. The club’s name initially made news headlines for paying tribute to Ryan, who was known as “The Ryan Express” during his playing career. The Express is currently affiliated with the Texas Rangers, but has also held affiliations with the Houston Astros, Minnesota Twins and Anaheim Angels. The Express’ roots stretch north of the border, where the club was originally known as the Edmonton Trappers.Ballpark
The Express play the home games on their schedule at Dell Diamond, which opened in 2000. The park has an official capacity of 8,722 and is known for such features as a swimming pool, hot tub, basketball court and enormous grass seating area.
Three Pacific Coast League Championships
The Express franchise has won a handful of Pacific Coast League titles since joining the league. These titles came in an early flurry; the team was tops in the league in 2002, 2001 and 2002. The team hasn’t solely had success on the diamond; in 2012, it was named the second most valuable club in Minor League Baseball, according to Forbes magazine.
Round Rock Express Roster
Over the years, the Express roster has included a number of notable Major League Baseball players, either on their way to the big leagues or during a rehab stint. These names include Adrian Beltre, Roger Clemens, Nelson Cruz, Chris Davis, Derek Holland, Jeff Kent, Mike Napoli and Hunter Pence.
Spring Training
During Spring Training, members of the Express share Surprise Stadium with other players from the Texas Rangers system. The park opened in 2003 and has an official capacity of 10,714. It’s also the Spring Training home of the Kansas City Royals and one of the host parks of the Arizona Fall League.
The Ballpark Guide hasn’t visited the Round Rock Express yet, but hopes to in the near future. If you’re excited to read a fan guide to Dell Diamond, check out the many ways you can support The Ballpark Guide on future baseball road trips.