After retirement, Ryan became the CEO and part-owner of the Texas Rangers. He also acted as an advisor to the Houston Astros. Nolan is considered one of the best pitchers in baseball history.

The Ryan Express fastball made him baseball's all-time record-holder in strikeouts (5,714) and no-hitters (seven). Ryan led his league in strikeouts 11 times on his way to 324 career wins.