ARLINGTON -- The Rangers have instituted furloughs for approximately 12 percent of their more than 500 employees in response to economic conditions created by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“In March, as we were confronted with the coronavirus pandemic, my goal was to avoid furloughs," Rangers co-chairman and managing partner Ray Davis said in a statement Tuesday. "Unfortunately, after four months of cost-saving measures, budget cuts and salary decreases, the severe financial consequences of the shutdown and lingering uncertainty about when we will play in front of fans, have left us out of options.

“Effective today, we instituted furloughs across our organization. The furloughs, which touch a number of baseball and business departments, reflect the realities of playing in an empty Globe Life Field, the shutdown of Minor League Baseball and other considerations related to the business challenges we face.

“I understand this causes significant hardship for some of our employees and their families. We have spent a great deal of time trying to find another course that would be less painful. I wish there was another way, but this decision is necessary for us to endure this crisis and emerge as strong as possible on the other side.

“I remain optimistic that we will be able to welcome our furloughed employees back to work in the future.”

The furloughs were effective as of Tuesday and are indefinite. Affected employees will receive two-week severance and health benefits through the end of October. There is a possibility that some or all could be brought back if economic conditions change.

The Rangers were looking into the possibility of bringing in fans at up to 50 percent capacity for home games this season. But as of now, their home games in July will be played in an empty Globe Life Field. That policy will be re-evaluated as the season progresses in accordance with state and local regulations.