ROUND ROCK, Texas - Round Rock Express Baseball announced Wednesday a four-year extension of its player development contract with the Texas Rangers. The extension keeps the Express as the Rangers Triple-A affiliate through the 2018 season.

"We're excited to solidify our relationship with the Rangers for the next six years," Express founder and CEO Reid Ryan said. "The Rangers organization continues to be one of baseball's best. Given the success of teams at lower levels within the organization this season, we know there will be a continuous stream of talent through Round Rock."

Round Rock began its affiliation with Texas following the 2010 season after an 11-year affiliation with the Houston Astros. The Express are owned by Ryan Sanders Baseball, while the Rangers are owned by Rangers Baseball Express - both of which Baseball Hall of Famer Nolan Ryan is a part.

Texas' farm system remains one of baseball's best, according to several outlets. Baseball America ranked the Rangers minor league system was ranked among baseball's five best each of the last five seasons. Four Rangers, including overall top prospect Jurickson Profar, placed in the top 100 of Jonathan Mayo's recent top prospects list for MLB.com.

Round Rock begins the 2013 season with an eight-game home stand that includes four-game series against Omaha (April 4-7) and Iowa (April 8-11). Game times will be announced at a later date.

Ticket plans, including full season, 20-game and flex plans, can now be reserved through the Express ticket office at (512) 255-2255 or online at www.RoundRockExpress.com.