Round Rock Express Begin New Era

Big changes are afoot up Round Rock way for our beloved Express. Last August when Nolan Ryan (aka the Ryan Express) became part owner, CEO, and team president of the Texas Rangers, and with the Hous­ton Astros' minor-league contract with the Express coming to a close, it was only a matter of time before the Express switched affiliations to become the Rangers' AAA ball club. As an Astros fan, I was a little bummed at first, but with Houston's flailing farm system and the Rangers robust minor-league talent pool, I'm now excited to watch the progression of players like No. 1 prospect Martin Perez (who will start the season with the AA Frisco RoughRiders) and former UT catcher Taylor Teagarden (pictured) to name but a few. Central Texas fans have already been treated to a visit from the reigning American League champion Rangers. But now exhibition play is done, and the real season begins today, Thursday, April 7, with a four-game series against the Iowa Cubs: Thu.-Sat., April 7-9, 7:05pm; Sun., April 10, 1:05pm. Vs. Omaha: Mon.-Thu., April 11-14, 7:05pm. Dell Diamond, 3400 E. Palm Valley, Round Rock, 512/255-2255. $6-30. www.roundrockexpress.com.