Reds, Bats extend affiliation
"The Reds are thrilled to have the opportunity to formally extend our relationship with the people operating one of the truly great professional baseball operations, and keep our Triple-A club in one of America's finest cities," said Reds vice president of scouting, player development and international operations, Bill Bavasi.
"The Bats front office didn't win the 2010 Bob Freitas Award by accident," continued Bavasi. "This is one of our industry's most prestigious awards, and we are so happy for Gary Ulmer, Dale Owens and Greg Galiette, who run a great operation year-in and year-out. It is clearly our great good fortune to be associated with dedicated professionals in a terrific city."
From 1982-1997, the Louisville franchise spent the first 16 years of its existence as the Triple-A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals. Louisville began a two-year Triple-A affiliation with the Milwaukee Brewers in 1998, and became the Reds' top farm club in 2000, the first year of play at Louisville Slugger Field. During its affiliation with Cincinnati, Louisville won its first ever Governors' Cup in 2001, and has reached the postseason five times, including in each of the past three seasons (2001, 2003, 2008, 2009, 2010).
"This is an exciting time for Cincinnati Reds baseball, and we are pleased to announce the continuation of our long term relationship," added Bats' president, Gary Ulmer. "Our partnership is strong, and we look forward to being a Reds' affiliate for many years to come."
The 2011 season will mark the 12th year at Louisville Slugger Field and the 12th season as an affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds. The Bats will open their 2011 season at home on Thur, April 7 vs. Toledo at 6:35 p.m.
Full and partial season tickets, along with group outings and suite rentals, are available by calling the Bats front office at (502) 212-2287 or by visiting www.batsbaseball.com online.