Tides sign affiliation extension with Orioles

The Baltimore Orioles and Norfolk Tides announced today that the two clubs have agreed on a four-year Player Development Contract extension that runs through the end of the 2014 season.

"We are extremely excited to continue our partnership with the Baltimore Orioles franchise" said Tides president Ken Young. "The proximity of Baltimore is a natural geographical fit for Norfolk, Bowie and Frederick, and we are thrilled that our fans will continue to get the opportunity to watch their favorite Orioles prospects move up the organizational ladder. The Orioles have also served as such a valuable force in our community, and we look forward to working with them to ensure the next four years are even more successful."

"We are very pleased to continue our working agreements with the Norfolk, Bowie and Frederick clubs," said Orioles President of Baseball Operations, Andy MacPhail. "We have formed great partnerships with each of these clubs and look forward to continue developing our talent in the supportive environment that these cities provide."

The Tides have served as the top affiliate of the Orioles since the beginning of the 2007 season, and over that time 64 different players have appeared for both Norfolk and Baltimore. 12 of the 25 players currently on the Orioles roster have played with Norfolk over the last two years.