By Associated Press - Tuesday, February 11, 2014

HOUSTON (AP) - Hall of Fame pitcher Nolan Ryan rejoined the Houston Astros on Tuesday as an executive adviser.

Ryan worked as a special assistant to the general manager in Houston from 2004 until he became president of the Texas Rangers in 2008. He added CEO to his title with the Rangers in 2011 and remained in that position until he stepped down in October.

Ryan will serve as an adviser to owner Jim Crane, general manager Jeff Luhnow and his son and president of business operations Reid Ryan.

“I’m very excited to be back with the Astros,” the elder Ryan said in a statement. “I’m happy to assist Jim, Jeff and Reid in any way I can. The Astros have a solid foundation with a strong farm system. I think the future is bright for Houston and I’m looking forward to my involvement.”

The Astros have lost more than 100 games in each of the last three seasons, but their minor league system has been ranked among the best in baseball this offseason.

Crane is glad to have Ryan back in Houston after his time with the Rangers.

“We will use his experience, expertise and knowledge to improve the Astros in all areas,” Crane said. “He will be an integral part of our management team. Nolan wants to be a part of our success moving forward.”

Ryan, who played for the Astros for nine seasons, is major league baseball’s career strikeout leader and was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1999.

“Nolan Ryan’s experience and insights will help us on the baseball side - both in terms of decision-making and in maximizing the productivity of our players,” Luhnow said. “I’m fortunate as a general manager to get advice and guidance from great former players and Astros - Craig Biggio, Roger Clemens and now Nolan Ryan.”

Ryan won 324 games and set records for strikeouts (5,714) and no-hitters (seven) in a 27-year major league career. He signed with the Astros in 1980 and helped them to their first postseason appearance that year and back to the playoffs in 1981 and 1986.

Reid Ryan joined the Astros last season and is looking forward to working with his father.

“The opportunity to work with my father is very special,” he said. “He’s had success in baseball on many levels and will be a great addition to our organization.”

The team said Nolan Ryan will join the team at spring training in the next few weeks.

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