Snappers, Twins extend affiliation

The Beloit Snappers on Tuesday extended their Player Development Contract with the Minnesota Twins through 2012.

Beloit has been the Twins' Class A Midwest League affiliate since 2005. The teams' current agreement, reached on Aug. 14, 2007, was set to expire following the 2010 season.

"This is a great day in Snappers history," said Dennis Conerton, chairman of Beloit Professional Baseball Association Inc. "We couldn't be happier with the Twins, who have been outstanding to work with since day one and provide our fans with a very exciting Major League product to watch. The Twins, from top to bottom, are a first-rate organization and we are proud to continue our affiliation with them."

In five seasons as a Minnesota Minor League team, the Snappers have reached the playoffs three times. In 2007, they lost to West Michigan in a decisive fifth game in the Midwest League Championship Series.

Among the players who have come through Beloit in recent years are Matt Garza, Kevin Slowey, Jeff Manship, Jose Mijares, Brian Duensing, Chris Parmelee, Ben Revere and Aaron Hicks.

"We would like to thank the Minnesota Twins for extending their agreement with us," Snappers general manager Jeff Vohs said. "The signing represents the confidence that both we and the Minnesota Twins have in each other. We look forward to keeping this relationship alive through the 2012 season and beyond."

Beloit has been a member of the Midwest League since 1982. Before joining the Twins system, the Snappers were affiliated with the Milwaukee Brewers for 23 years.