Ep. 225 -- Reid Ryan: Growing Up in a Famous Shadow

Growing Up Ryan: Reid Ryan on Nolan, the Astros, and Finding His Own Way

What do Nolan Ryan, Barney the purple dinosaur, and Texas A&M have in common? Reid Ryan has a story you’ll want to hear.

The former Houston Astros president of business operations joins Melvin E. Edwards for a conversation filled with baseball memories, family humor, and a candid look at building a life in the game.

Reid remembers the tears that followed Houston’s 2017 World Series championship, his days working as an Astros batboy, and the pressure of pitching with “Ryan” on his jersey. He shares how his father helped him find perspective after his release from the minor leagues—and how that disappointment eventually led to the creation of the Round Rock Express.

Along the way, Reid offers his perspective on the Astros’ sign-stealing controversy, explains why listening to fans matters, and reveals a surprising talent of his Hall of Fame father.

In this episode:

* What Houston’s first World Series championship meant to Reid.

* Behind the scenes of the Astros’ efforts to help their stars reach Cooperstown.

* Growing up around the Astrodome and working during the unforgettable 1986 season.

* Ruth Ryan’s influence on her family and the baseball community.

* Facing Nolan Ryan in a college exhibition game.

* Finding a new direction when a professional playing career ends.

* Bringing minor league baseball to Round Rock and Corpus Christi.

* How Texas A&M fans turned a mound visit into a family story.

* Why Reid never witnessed any of his father’s seven no-hitters in person.

* The lessons Reid hopes his own children carry forward.

For Reid and Melvin, baseball connects generations. Their conversation explores why a ballpark can hold memories of parents, children, heartbreak, and belonging long after the final out.

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Hosted by Melvin E. Edwards. A production of Media Well Done, LLC.

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