Major League Baseball has given Bud Selig the title of Commissioner Emeritus.
Selig's retirement will become official on Jan. 25, the date Rob Manfred takes over as baseball's new commissioner.
In his next role, Selig will advise Manfred and assist with special projects.
"I greatly appreciate the opportunity to stay connected to the game in this new capacity," said Selig in a statement. "I will be proud to stand behind Rob's vision for the future and to assist in any ways that he asks. Baseball is the greatest game in the world, and I look forward to seeing our sport flourish under Rob's leadership."
Manfred was elected to the position by a unanimous vote among baseball owners in August and agreed to a five-year contract in November.
"Commissioner Selig has had an unparalleled career of decorated service to the national pastime, and this role will allow the game to benefit from his unmatched institutional knowledge, experience and relationships," said Manfred in a statement Friday. "I could not ask for a finer mentor during this transition process, and I am grateful that commissioner Selig will continue to be available to me as a resource."
Selig will have spent 22 years as the sport's commissioner. He assumed the leadership post in September 1992, initially on an acting basis following the resignation of Fay Vincent, and was given permanent duties in 1998.
[SportsNetwork.com]
