Ryan Howard becomes partner in “SeventySix Capital”

By Tim Kelly, Sports Talk Philly editor

Investment firm SevetySix Capital announced Thursday that former Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard is now a partner in their company: 

Ryan Howard today announced his role as a Partner at venture capital firm SeventySix Capital, which invests in innovative seed and early stage consumer-facing tech, retail, sports and wellness companies. Led by Managing Partners Wayne Kimmel and Jon Powell, SeventySix Capital’s track record includes five portfolio companies acquired by Fortune 500 companies and a top performing U.S. stock for five consecutive years.

Howard will leverage his business acumen and relationships to source new opportunities for the firm and take portfolio companies to the next level. Additionally, he will work closely with entrepreneurs and investors who share in SeventySix Capital’s commitment to building game-changing companies.

Howard, who is currently playing for the Triple-A Gwinnett Braves, spoke about why he has chosen to become a partner in SeventySix Capital: 

“Other than playing the game I love, my passion is investing in innovative companies and helping the entrepreneurs behind them succeed. While I continue to work towards another opportunity with the Majors, I’m excited to grow my partnership with SeventySix Capital,” said Howard. “Wayne, Jon and the SeventySix Capital team are best in class, and committed to building successful companies. Together, by leveraging the full weight of our knowledge, expertise and relationships, we can make a huge impact at home in Philadelphia and around the world.”

The company's website now features a pretty good looking header, which places Howard next to Wayne Kimmel and Jon Powell, the two other partners in the company: 

For Howard, this seems like a pretty cool venture to get involved in. He's made nearly $200 million in his career, so he certainly isn't short on funds, and this is a good way for him to help businesses to get off the ground and potentially make even more money. 

This also feels like a natural transition to Howard's post-playing career, although he did go out of his way to note in the press release that he is continuing his attempt to get back to the big leagues. It's unclear how likely that is, however, because Howard is hitting just .188 in 34 at-bats at the Triple-A level. The Braves have seven games in American League parks this month beginning on May 9, so the next week or so would seem to be crucial in determining whether Howard is called-up by the Braves. 

The 37-year-old won the 2005 National League Rookie of the Year and the 2006 National League MVP, while helping the Phillies to win five National League East titles, two National League pennants and the 2008 World Series title during parts of 13 seasons with the team.