The Bowling Green Hot Rods (Low A; Midwest League) and the Tampa Bay Rays have announced an extension of their player development contract (PDC). The extension means that the affiliation between the two clubs will continue through the 2020 season.
“Having the Rays come to us and offer us an extension on our Player Development Contract is a testament to the great partnership we have had since 2009,” said Hot Rods General Manager Eric C. Leach.
“The Rays have been a pleasure to work with and we look forward to the great talent they continue to send to Southcentral Kentucky.”
The Hot Rods have been affiliated with the Rays since its inaugural season in 2009 and have since seen 31 former players make their Major League debut.
“We truly value our relationship with the Bowling Green Hot Rods organization and are looking forwarding to continue to develop our players in Bowling Green for the next three seasons,” said Tampa Bay Rays Director of Minor League Operations Mitch Lukevics.
“We not only thank the Hot Rods ownership and Front office staff, but also the city of Bowling Green and their fans for giving our players a great environment to develop their skills.”
In addition to the 31 players who have suited up for various Major League teams, two players have gone on to play in a MLB All-Star game (Matt Moore and Alex Colome). Former outfielder, Kevin Kiermaier, is also a two-time Gold Glove Winner while patrolling the outfield for the Rays.
“The Rays have been a first class organization to work with since we became owners of the team,” said Hot Rods Owner Stuart Katzoff. “We are excited about this extension of our partnership and for our fans to continue to watch the future of the Rays develop every night at Bowling Green Ballpark.”
Here is a look at the current affiliation status in Minor League Baseball.