There is some affiliation news to pass along, as the Williamsport Crosscutters (Short Season A; NY-Penn League) have extended their player development contract (PDC) with the Philadelphia Phillies. The two-year extension covers the 2019 and 2020 seasons.
“We are thrilled to extend our relationship with the Phillies,” said Cutters Principal Owner Peter Freund. “We look forward to continuing our successful and strategic partnership for years to come.”
Williamsport has been an affiliate of the Phillies since 2007. In that time, over 40 players have made their Major League debut after spending part of their minor league development in Williamsport. That list includes 14 players on the current Phillies roster; LHP Adam Morgan, LHP Hoby Milner, RHP Hector Neris, RHP Ricardo Pinto, RHP Edubray Ramos, RHP Yacksel Rios, C Cameron Rupp, C Andrew Knapp, 3B Maikel Franco, INF Freddy Galvis, INF Cesar Hernandez, OF Aaron Altherr , OF Rhys Hoskins & OF Cam Perkins.
In speaking about the decision, Phillies Director of Player Development, Joe Jordan stated, “The Phillies organization is extremely happy to extend our working agreement with the Williamsport Crosscutters. We look forward to continuing our great relationship with Principal Owner Peter Freund and the ownership group along with the front office staff and certainly the Williamsport community. This commitment recognizes a relationship that works not only for our organization, our players and staff but also our Phillies fan base.”
Williamsport was also affiliated with the Phillies during the 1958-1962 seasons.
In 2016, the Crosscutters signed a new four-year lease with the City of Williamsport for the continued use of BB&T Ballpark at Historic Bowman Field, the second oldest minor league stadium in the country, through the 2020 season.
Here’s a look at the current affiliate status in Minor League Baseball.