Brad Corbett, famous for his six years as the primary owner of the Texas Rangers Major League Baseball (MLB) team, has died at the age of 75. Corbett passed away at his home in Fort Worth, Texas on Monday, December 24.
Corbett owned the Rangers from 1974 to 1980, and presided over the team’s first four winning seasons. Despite the newfound success and popularity, the team had six different managers during those six years. Citing financial difficulties, Corbett sold the team to Texas oil businessman Eddie Chiles in 1980.
The Rangers released a short statement regarding Corbett’s passing:
The Texas Rangers are saddened to hear of the death of Brad Corbett, who passed away on Monday at the age of 75.
Mr. Corbett was the Principal Owner of the Texas Rangers from May 29, 1974 to April 29, 1980. His tenure as owner was marked by a passion and drive to bring a winning team to the fans of North Texas. During his ownership, the Rangers produced their first four winning seasons and finished second three times. Texas’ 94 victories in 1977 remained the most in team history until 1999.
The spirit in which Mr. Corbett served as Owner of the Rangers will be remembered always. The organization extends its deepest sympathies to his family and friends on his passing.
Corbett was born in New York City in 1937. According to the New York Times, Corbett was a lifelong fan of the New York Giants, and died wearing pajama bottoms bearing their logo.