The Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers are deeply saddened by the passing of the City of Surprise Director of Community and Recreation Services Mark Coronado. Mr. Coronado died on Thursday at the age of 59 after a long illness.
 
Mr. Coronado was instrumental in the planning and construction of the spring training and player development complex that the Royals and Rangers have shared in Surprise, Arizona since 2003. For the last 15 years he oversaw the day-to-day operation of one of the finest spring training facilities in the Major Leagues and played a key role in the renovations for both teams in 2016.  
 
"All of us in the Royals' family are deeply saddened by the passing of our friend and colleague Mark Coronado," said Royals Senior VP of Business Operations Kevin Uhlich. "He was the driving force in convincing both the Royals and Rangers to make the move from Florida to Arizona for spring training. His efforts and dedication to the project have allowed both of our franchises to flourish in our year round training programs in Surprise. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mark, his family and the staff that assists us so ably in Surprise."
 
"Mark Coronado was a trusted partner and friend to the Texas Rangers organization for many years," said Rangers Executive Vice President of Business Operations Rob Matwick. "It was his vision, determination, and years of effort that resulted in Major League Baseball coming to Surprise. The Rangers and Royals have a strong and successful relationship with the City of Surprise because of Mark. He will be greatly missed and we express our deepest sympathies to his family, colleagues, and friends at this difficult time."