Bob Short was a prominent figure in the world of baseball, known not for his prowess on the field, but for his significant contributions as an owner and executive. He was the owner of two Major League Baseball (MLB) teams, the Washington Senators and the Texas Rangers, and played a crucial role in the relocation and rebranding of these franchises.

Short's involvement in baseball began in 1968 when he purchased the Washington Senators, a team that had been struggling both financially and competitively. Short, a successful businessman, saw potential in the team and believed he could turn their fortunes around. He made several key decisions that had a significant impact on the team's performance. One of his most notable moves was hiring Ted Williams, a former Boston Red Sox player and one of the greatest hitters in baseball history, as the team's manager in 1969. Under Williams' leadership, the Senators saw a marked improvement in their performance.

Despite these improvements, the Senators continued to struggle with low attendance rates. Short, who had invested heavily in the team, was facing financial difficulties. In an attempt to resolve these issues, he made the controversial decision to move the team to Arlington, Texas, in 1971. The team was rebranded as the Texas Rangers, marking the start of a new chapter in its history.

Short's tenure as the owner of the Rangers was marked by a series of ups and downs. The team struggled in its initial years in Texas, but Short continued to invest in its development. He brought in several talented players and made significant improvements to the team's stadium. However, these efforts were not enough to turn the team into a profitable venture.

In 1974, facing mounting financial pressures, Short sold the Rangers to a consortium led by Brad Corbett. Despite his departure from the team, his impact on the franchise was undeniable. He had transformed the struggling Senators into a team that, while not always successful on the field, had a strong fan base and a solid foundation for future success.

Short's involvement in baseball extended beyond his ownership of the Senators and Rangers. He served as the president of the American League from 1973 to 1974, a role in which he was responsible for overseeing the league's operations and promoting its interests. He was also a member of the MLB's executive council, a group of team owners and executives who played a key role in shaping the league's policies and direction.

In summary, Bob Short's baseball career was marked by his significant contributions as an owner and executive. He played a crucial role in the relocation and rebranding of the Washington Senators and Texas Rangers, and his efforts helped lay the groundwork for the future success of these franchises. Despite the challenges he faced, his passion for the sport and his commitment to his teams were evident throughout his career.

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