JetHawks and Astros extend affiliation

LANCASTER, CA - The Lancaster JetHawks have extended its player development contract agreement with the Houston Astros and will remain the Major League club's high-A affiliate for the next two years.

The Astros affiliation began in 2009 when the two organizations signed a four-year agreement to place Houston's high-A affiliate in the California League for the first time in over 40 years.

"Coming on the heels of a memorable season, we are excited to continue our partnership with Houston," says JetHawks majority owner Peter Carfagna. "The Astros have taken great steps forward by placing a lot of talent and focus in its minor league system and fans in the Antelope Valley will continue to have the opportunity to enjoy the fruits of the organization's great drafts and trades."

In the four years that the JetHawks and Astros have been partners, several players have gone on to play at the Major League level, including National League All-Star Jose Altuve and the club's starting catcher Jason Castro.

The Houston organization's other Minor League affiliates are located in Oklahoma City, OK (AAA), Corpus Christi, TX (AA), Lexington, KY (low A), Troy, NY (short season A) and Greenville, TN (Rookie).

"The fans in Lancaster who cheer the JetHawks on at The Hangar are among the best in minor league baseball," said Astros General Manager Jeff Luhnow. "We hope to continue to field winnings teams there and win championships."

The JetHawks have had three other Major League partners in the franchise's 17-year history. Prior to Houston's arrival in 2009, the JetHawks had a two-year partnership with the Boston Red Sox, which followed a six-year affiliation with the Arizona Diamondbacks from 2001 - 2006 and five-year partnership with the Seattle Mariners from 1996 - 2000.

Over 100 former JetHawks have moved on to the Major League level during Lancaster's existence, including notables Brandon Webb, Justin Masterson, Brian Fuentes, Mark Reynolds, Dan Uggla, Carlos Gonzalez and Carlos Quentin. The club has reached the California League playoffs in nine of the club's 17 years.

Don't miss the exciting 18th season of JetHawks baseball in Lancaster. The 2013 regular season opens in early April and ticket packages are available now. To order, call (661)726-5400 or for more information, check out the official website of the JetHawks at www.JetHawks.com.