Daniels Remembers Young Fondly

Michael Young demanded trades from the Texas Rangers twice due to his beef with changing positions again and again to make way for new signees or prospects, and neither time saw Rangers GM Jon Daniels accomodate him.

Finally, Daniels dealt Young to the Philadelphia Phillies following the 2012 season, a career-worst year for the veteran infielder who was the Rangers' de facto face of the franchise.

There was obviously some bitterness between the two, but Daniels said he's pleased Young has decided to retire as a Ranger and to announce his decision officially in a press conference Friday afternoon at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington after playing the 2013 season with the Phillies and the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The Rangers released the following statement on Young:

The Texas Rangers want to congratulate Michael Young on his outstanding major league career. For 12 seasons in a Rangers uniform, he was a standout performer on the field and the consummate role model in the community.

Michael is a leader, and he demonstrated those skills every day of the season, year in and year out. We are proud to say that Michael Young is this franchise’s all-time leader in games, at bats, runs, hits, doubles, triples, and total bases. He excelled at multiple positions and came through in the clutch.

When Texas advanced to postseason play in 2010 after an 11-year drought, teammates and fans everywhere were especially happy that Michael had reached the playoffs. And he was an integral performer in those Rangers’ back-to-back World Series runs.

The Rangers wish Michael, his wife Cristina, and sons Mateo, Emilio, and Antonio the very best as they enter a new chapter in their lives. And we want them to know there will always be a place for the Young’s in the Texas Rangers family.

And Daniels told media of his appreciation for Young and what he did to help lead the Rangers to MLB powerhouse status, including two straight World Series appearances in 2010 and 2011.

"I'm glad the Rangers have the opportunity to be involved," Daniels said. "Wouldn't feel right otherwise. The relationship between team, player and community is pretty unique. He's meant a lot to the organization over the years — from transitioning though a rebuild, to welcoming in new players young and old, to helping play us to the World Series. I'm happy for him and Cristina that they can go out on their terms, something we all wish we have the chance to do."

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