The Great Lakes Loons and Los Angeles Dodgers today announced an extension of the organizations' player development contract for an additional four seasons, making the Loons the Class A Midwest League partner of the Dodgers through 2014. The extension was announced today during the Loons game against the Lansing Lugnuts.

"Our goal from a partnership perspective has always been to have continuity and competitiveness," said Paul Barbeau, Loons President and General Manager. "We have had a great working relationship with the Dodgers over our first four seasons. Our players have been active in the Great Lakes Bay Region, and our association with the Dodgers brand -- which has such a rich tradition of excellence -- has provided additional recognition and exposure to our franchise."

"We look forward to continuing our partnership with the Loons and our success both on the field and in the Great Lakes Bay Region for years to come," said De Jon Watson, Assistant General Manager of Player Development for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

"The Dodgers have made a strong commitment to our organization and fans by putting such a competitive product on the field the past two seasons," Barbeau added. "The Dodgers have played a key role in the success our franchise has enjoyed, and we are excited to announce the Dodgers will be a part of Loons baseball for four more years."

The Loons have a 73-36 (.670) record this season and boast the best record in all of Minor League Baseball.

The Loons have been affiliated with the Dodgers since the franchise began play in 2007. On May 25, 2008, Clayton Kershaw became the first former member of the Loons to debut in the Majors with Los Angeles. On July 24, of this season, Kenley Jansen became the second Loons player to make his Major League debut with the Dodgers. Forty-two former Loons are currently playing in higher levels of the Dodgers Minor League system.