SURPRISE, Ariz. -- The Rangers have rewarded manager Jeff Banister for his first year of work by redoing his original three-year contract.
The Rangers picked up their option on the 2018 season and added another club option for '19. In addition to the extra security, Banister also received a raise.
"This is a reflection of the body of work over one year, our strong feelings for Jeff and his leadership," general manager Jon Daniels said. "He and his family, their work in the community, with the players, front office, scouting, he followed through with everything we saw in the interview process. It was a very successful first year on a number of fronts. We mentioned it was a partnership early on; it was the personal and professional relationship I expected as we went along."
Banister, given a three-year contract with an option, was originally hired on Oct. 16, 2014, after 29 years in professional baseball with the Pirates as a player, coach, coordinator and Minor League manager. The Rangers went 88-74 in his first season after going 67-95 the year before. They won the American League West title, and he won the AL Manager of the Year Award.
Banister, his wife Karen and their two children reside in Keller, Texas, after living most of their lives in the Houston area. Banister was drafted by the Pirates in the 25th round of the 1986 MLB Draft out of the University of Houston. His original signing bonus was for $1,000, agreed upon at a fast-food hamburger joint.
When the Rangers offered Banister the job in 2014, Daniels said he didn't even bother looking at the contract before signing it.
"He showed his trust in us, and we wanted to do the same," Daniels said.
"More than anything else, I'm proud of the relationship and partnership we've had and continue to grow," Banister said. "That's most important, and the recognition where we as a staff, from where we began to where we've [reached] in a short period of time. The trust side is also important.
"I'm happy for my family. We love the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Karen and I and the kids -- the transition into the community has been tremendous. It is a place we have come to love. The opportunity is huge. We are fully committed and all-in. We are looking forward to long-term success."