Nolan Ryan testifies in bankruptcy court, lobbies for Aug 4 auction of Texas Rangers

Nolan Ryan lobbies for auction of Texas Rangers

FORT WORTH, Texas — Nolan Ryan is urging a bankruptcy judge to auction off the Texas Rangers on Aug. 4 as planned, saying a delay could hurt the team and maybe even cost them slugger Josh Hamilton.

The Hall of Fame pitcher testified Wednesday in his capacity as Rangers team president. He and Pittsburgh sports attorney Chuck Greenberg have the endorsement of Major League Baseball to buy the team, but the sale has wound up in a contentious bankruptcy proceeding.

Creditors and even the court-appointed restructuring officer want a delay so other bidders can line up financing.

Ryan says the auction should be held as planned to avoid distractions as the Rangers make a run for the American League West title. He also worries about having financing in order for next season and told the judge he was specifically worried about keeping Hamilton.

Through Tuesday, Hamilton was leading the majors with a .357 batting average.