VIERA, Fla. -- The Milwaukee Brewers extended their player development contract (PDC) with the Brevard County Manatees of the Class A Advanced Florida State League, through the 2012 season.

The Manatees are owned and operated by Central Florida Baseball Group, LLC.

"We are excited for the opportunity to continue our relationship with the Brewers, who are a class act top to bottom," Central Florida Baseball Group Chairman Dr. Tom Winters said.

The Manatees, located in Viera, Fla., have had a PDC with the Brewers since 2005. The club has previously been affiliated with the Florida Marlins (1994-2001) and the Montreal Expos (2002-2004).

"We are very excited to extend our player development contract with the Milwaukee Brewers," Brevard County Manatees General Manager Kyle Smith said. "We are glad to be able to continue grooming the young talent in the Brewers organization and also providing professional baseball to Brevard County."

Five players on Milwaukee's 2010 Opening Day roster played for the Manatees. OF Ryan Braun (2006), SS Alcides Escobar (2006-07), RHP Yovani Gallardo (2006), LHP Manny Parra (2006) and RHP Carlos Villanueva (2005) have all made a stop at Brevard County on their way to the majors.

"We are pleased to extend our working relationship with the Brevard County Manatees and their management team," said Brewers Executive Vice President and General Manager Doug Melvin.

"Brevard County has provided the important resources and environment needed to develop and prepare our young players for future success in the organization and the relationship continues to work well for our needs."

For more information on the Brevard County Manatees, visit manateesbaseball.com.