BOCA CHICA, D.R. -- Veteran right-handed pitcher Edinson Vólquez has decided he is not ready to retire.

Volquez said he is close to signing a Minor League contract with the Rangers and go to Spring Training with them in February as a reliever. Volquez joined the Rangers on Friday for the official opening of their new academy in the Dominican Republic. The club hasn't confirmed a deal.

Volquez was planning to retire after this past season but decided otherwise after speaking with general manager Jon Daniels.

¡°We¡¯re working on it,¡± Volquez said. ¡°I was going to retire but I got too many phone calls wanting me to come back. My choice is to come back to Texas. I¡¯m excited for next season.¡±

Volquez missed most of last season with a sprained right elbow. But he returned in September as a reliever and was throwing 95 mph out of the bullpen. The Rangers also like the idea of having the 14-year veteran providing leadership for their younger pitchers.

¡°They want me to stay close to the young guys,¡± Volquez said. ¡°The way I finished last season changed my mind. I was throwing hard with no pain. When I first talked to [Daniels] I said no, but he said I¡¯ve got to come back and help the young guys.¡±