The Oakland A’s joined forces with two of the three Burlington minor-league teams today, as the last teams left standing in low A — the Vermont Lake Monsters (short season A; NY-Penn League), playing out of Burlington, Vt., and the Burlington Bees (Low Class A; Midwest League), from Iowa — officially announced player-development deals.
“We feel extremely fortunate to add Burlington and Vermont as minor league affiliates,” said A’s Vice President and General Manager Billy Beane. “Both areas are steeped in rich baseball history and offer very supportive communities. It should be an exciting and mutually beneficial partnership for all parties involved. We look forward to the opportunity to field competitive rosters and outstanding coaching staffs at both locations.”
That’s pure PR: Oakland did not seek relationships with these teams and were left looking after being turned out of existing farm agreements with the Vancouver Canadians and the Kane County Cougars.
The deal also means that the Florida Marlins will be returning to Jamestown in 2011.
Here’s a look at the current affiliate status.
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