The Harrisburg Senators (Class AA; Eastern League) and the Washington Nationals announced a four-year extension to their player development contract, through the 2018 season.
Mike Rizzo, President of Baseball Operations and General Manager of the Nationals, and Kevin Kulp, President of the Senators made the announcement in a joint press conference earlier today at Metro Bank Park.
This marks the Senators’ tenth season partnered with the Washington Nationals. The Senators have partnered with the Nationals/Montreal Expos since 1991, making this their 24th consecutive season as partners. During their time with the Nationals/Expos, the Senators have been to the Eastern League finals nine times, winning the Championship five times. Since the move to Washington, the Senators have won two division crowns and have made the playoffs three out of the past four seasons.
“We are very pleased to announce this extension of our relationship with the Washington Nationals,” Kulp said. “They are a first-class organization from top to bottom and have placed not only great ballplayers on our team but also fine young men. We look forward to growing together in the years to come.”
Over the past nine seasons, 53 players have gone from Harrisburg onto making their major league debuts with the Washington Nationals. Currently 24 of the 40 players on the Nationals 40-man roster played in Harrisburg. Twice in the past four seasons the Senators have had the overall number one pick in the draft on their roster, Stephen Strasburg in 2010 and Bryce Harper in 2011.
“Our partnership with Harrisburg and the Senators dates back more than 20 years, and it is with that history in mind that we are excited to sign on with them for another four,” Rizzo said. “Harrisburg is an Eastern League gem, and we are proud to continue our association with a team, and a town, that have such rich baseball histories.
“From a baseball standpoint, the Senators have served as a fantastic breeding ground for some of our organization’s most talented players, and helped launch the Major League careers of many. The Senators connection in our clubhouse runs deep.”
Here’s a look at the current affiliate status.
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