The Louisville Bats (Class AAA; International League) and the Cincinnati Reds extended their player development contract (PDC) for two additional years, through 2018.
The previous PDC was set to expire in 2016.
“Since 2000 we have had a great relationship with the Bats and their front office, and we are pleased to be able to extend our PDC with them,” said Reds President of Baseball Operations and General Manager Walt Jocketty. “Our players tell us they enjoy living and playing in Louisville because the front office staff, ballpark and fan base are some of the best in the minor leagues.”
The Bats are 1,107-1,047 in 15 seasons since becoming the Reds’ top farm club. During their affiliation with Cincinnati, Louisville has won their first ever Governors’ Cup in 2001 and has reached the postseason five times (2001, 2003, 2008, 2009, 2010). Reds stars Joey Votto, Jay Bruce, Homer Bailey, Aroldis Chapman, Todd Frazier, Devin Mesoraco and Billy Hamilton are among the former Bats players currently on the Reds’ roster.
“We are pleased to announce the extension of our player development contract with the Cincinnati Reds through the 2018 season,” said Louisville Bats President Gary Ulmer. “We value our long term partnership with Cincinnati and hope to be the Reds’ Triple-A affiliate for many years to come.”
You can check out affiliate status for MLB and MiLB teams here.