Mudcats, Reds announce two-year deal

ZEBULON, NC -- This afternoon the Double-A Carolina Mudcats and National League's Cincinnati Reds jointly announced the signing of a two-year player development contract running through the 2010 season. Additionally, the Mudcats will be hosting a Major League exhibition game with the Reds on Friday, April 3rd, 2009 at Five County Stadium.

"The Reds are a baseball icon and we're proud to have such a highly-rated Minor League system coming our way," remarked Mudcats owner Steve Bryant, noting that Baseball America ranked the Reds' Minor League organization third in baseball entering 2008. "It speaks well of the Mudcats organization that Cincinnati has been so highly interested in being here."

"We're very excited about having the Reds partner with us," commented Carolina's General Manager Joe Kremer. "Many Midwesterners have relocated to North Carolina over the years, including a large number of Buckeyes and a very strong Reds following."

The Reds represent the oldest existing Major League team, established in 1882 and joining the National League in 1890, winning nine N.L. pennants and five World Championships.

The Mudcats begin their Cincinnati era on Thursday, April 9th against the defending Southern League champions Mississippi Braves at Trustmark Park in Pearl, MS.