The Lakewood Blueclaws will be affiliated with the Philadelphia Phillies through at least the 2014 season, as the club has announced a two-year extension of their contract with the Major League club.
Phillies slugger Ryan Howard, who did a in Lakewood this year, announced he extension via video at Thursday's game. Phillies General Manager Ruben Amaro Jr. and BlueClaws General Manager Geoff Brown then signed the agreement on the field to make the decision official.
Benny Looper, the Phillies assistant general manager for player personnel, said there was excitement on both sides about continuing the partnership. "The Phillies couldn't be happier to extend their relationship with both the BlueClaws and the city of Lakewood," he said. "It's been a wonderful 12 years, and we look forward to many more."
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The agreement between the BlueClaws and their Philadelphia big league club started when they first took the field in 2001. Since then 46 players have made it to the Major Leagues. Of those 28 suited up for the Phillies.
Brown said he was glad to see the agreement continued after a dozen years of working together. "It's been a magnificent relationship over the last 12 years, and we've been graced with some great players who have come through Lakewood," he said.
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Since their first season the team has won three South Atlantic League titles including back-to-back crowns in 2009 and 2010.
There is still time left to see this year's group of players. The team is home through Sunday evening as they wrap up a series against the Kannapolis Intimidators. They will then be home starting Aug. 31 for a series against the Greensboro Grasshoppers.
To learn more about the team check out their website.
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