No surprise: the Hagerstown Suns (Low Class A; Sally League) and the Washington Nationals extended their player-development deal by two more years, through 2012; it also means Oakland will be sending players to Iowa.
The renewal was never in doubt; the complicating factor was the impending sale of the team, which is now complete.
“Our partnership between the Nationals and Hagerstown has fit well,” said Nationals President Stan Kasten. “We very much appreciate the proximity and hospitality that Hagerstown and the Suns provide our players. We are pleased to have both town and team as members of our affiliate family.”
“We are very fortunate to have another two years with the Washington Nationals,” said Suns Majority Owner Bruce Quinn. “Through the Lerners, Stan Kasten and Mike Rizzo, the Nationals truly are an up-and-coming team in the National League.”
The deal leaves the Oakland A’s and the Burlington Bees (Low Class A; Midwest League) as the only two unaffiliated teams at this level. We would expect an announcement of their upcoming nuptuals any time now.
Here’s a look at the current affiliate status.
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