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Toronto extends with Lansing, takes over in Bluefield

Toronto Blue JaysThe Toronto Blue Jays made two announcements today regarding its farm system, signing an extension of its player-development contract with the Lansing Lugnuts (Low Class A; Midwest League) and taking over from Baltimore with the Appalachian League’s Bluefield team, to be known as the Bluefield Blue Jays.

The Bluefield Blue Jays will begin play with manager Dennis Holmberg at Bowen Field in Bluefield, West Virginia, a city rich in baseball history that can be traced back to 1882. The organization has been affiliated with the Boston Braves, Washington Senators, Boston Red Sox, Brooklyn Dodgers and for the last 53 seasons, the Baltimore Orioles. The new player-development deal goes for four years.

“This is another example of our commitment to Scouting and Development as the driving force to move our organization forward,” said Tony LaCava, VP, Baseball Operations & Assistant General Manager. “The first step was to invest in our scouting staff, then allocating resources to the First Year Player Draft and amateur free agents. Next year we will take another step forward by expanding to seven minor league affiliates. Bluefield is a tremendous partner for us and presents a great opportunity for our young men to develop.”

In Michigan, the Blue Jays announced a two-year extension with the Lansing Lugnuts (Low Class A; Midwest League).

“We have nothing but great things to say about General Manager Pat Day and the entire Lugnuts organization,” LaCava said. “They have been tremendous partners in developing our young men as players and people. We look forward to many more players reaching Toronto after grooming their talents in Lansing.”

Here’s a look at the current affiliate status.

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