Pudge now has 13 Gold Gloves, and Hall of Fame third baseman Brooks Robinson (16) is the only position player with more. Rodriguez has been an All-Star four more times since leaving Texas.

“It was amazing when I came to Detroit, to see the program, how hard he works,” Tigers manager Jim Leyland said. “He’s obviously going to the Hall of Fame where he belongs.”

Every season since leaving the Rangers, Rodriguez has played as an opposing player in Texas. This is the Astros’ only series at Rangers Ballpark this season, and the timing was perfect.

“It couldn’t have worked out any better. I think the baseball gods are looking down on us with a big smile,” said Astros outfielder Hunter Pence, an Arlington native who grew up watching Rodriguez play. “It’s a little strange seeing him in an Astros jersey here in this stadium. He’s a big part of what the Rangers are.”

The Rangers recognized Rodriguez’s accomplishments with a video tribute that started by showing Fisk, Bob Boone and Gary Carter, the only catchers other than Rodriguez to catch more than 2,000 games. Then it showed Rodriguez as a youngster with Ryan, throwing out at a runner and his introduction during the 1995 All-Star game at Rangers Ballpark.

“Nolan and Pudge are the two guys here, and rightfully so. I’m really glad he’s getting the opportunity to break that record here,” Texas infielder Michael Young said. “It never gets old. (The fans) love him here.”

Reflecting before Wednesday’s game, Rodriguez said he never set any goals of wanting to play a certain number of games or break any records.

“I just wanted to play hard and stay healthy and play as many years as I can. Here we are,” he said. “As long as I’m thinking and feeling the way I am right now, I’m going to keep playing.”

MORE FROM BASEBALL

Baseball Section Front

Lupica takes cheap shots at A-Rod HBT: Nathan still hoping to avoid elbow surgery Blyleven: Injury for one means opportunity for others DeMarco: White Sox ready to take control in Central HBT: Phillies mulled offering Howard for Pujols?   Dodgers send former ace closer Gagne to minors   HBT: Reynolds, D-backs agree to three-year deal HBT: Jays to sign Cuban shortstop for $10 million Special feature: Team-by-team spring previews   Slideshow: Top 20 fantasy sleepers this season Baseball Section Front   Add Baseball headlines to your news reader: