End of an Era: Ron Washington Resigns from the Texas Rangers

In a surprising announcement Friday afternoon, Texas Rangers manager Ron Washington announced his resignation.

"Today, I have submitted my resignation from the job I love - managing the Rangers -- in order to devote my full attention to addressing an off-the-field personal matter," Washington said in a statement. "As painful as it is, stepping away from the game is what's best for me and my family.

"This is in no way related to the disappointing performance of the team this season. We were already discussing 2015 and looking forward to getting the Rangers back to postseason contention."

Rangers general manager Jon Daniels issued a statement concerning Washington's resignation: "Ron Washington informed us today that he has chosen to resign as Rangers manager in order to turn his full attention to addressing an off-the-field personal matter. Out of respect for Ron's privacy, the Rangers will leave any comment on the details to him.

"While we are disappointed, we accept Ron's decision and are grateful for his many contributions to the Rangers organization over the last eight years. This has certainly been a difficult season for our major league club in terms of on-field performance, but we were looking forward to moving ahead with Ron as our manager in 2015.

"Ron has guided the Rangers franchise to more victories than any manager in club history, including four straight 90-win seasons, three playoff appearances, and back-to-back American League championships. He has left his mark as a teacher, motivator, and leader on this organization. We wish Ron the best as he deals with this matter."

Bench coach Tim Bogar will serve as interim manager for the rest of the 2014 season.

Washington's (664-611) record leading the Rangers is the best in team history as he leads the Rangers in regular season wins and games managed.  He also guided the Rangers to their first two World Series appearances in 2010 & 2011.