Ryan Howard, who was just released from his minor-league deal with the Atlanta Braves, has announced his role as a partner at Radnor’s SeventySix Capital, a venture capital firm that invests in 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, the former Phillies slugger, 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 and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Ben Franklin Technology Development Authority are among several investors in the firm’s newest fund, which they are continuing to raise.

“Other than playing the game I love, my passion is investing in innovative companies and helping the entrepreneurs behind them succeed,” said Howard. “While I continue to work toward another opportunity with the Majors, I’m excited to grow my partnership with SeventySix Capital.

“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.”

Howard is actively involved with SeventySix Capital’s portfolio companies and partners, including a recent collaboration with Whistle Sports and helping Rubicon Talent generate entrepreneurial opportunities for their clients, which include professional athletes Greg Olsen, DeMarco Murray, and Kerri Walsh Jennings.

“At SeventySix Capital, we don’t just invest in ideas; we invest in people,” said Kimmel. “For us, it’s about passionate, smart, and nice entrepreneurs who create companies that change the world for the better, and Ryan Howard embodies those traits. Whether on the field or off, Ryan is determined to continue to make a difference.”