Wings, Twins extend agreement through 2014
The working agreement began in 2003 following the Red Wings' 42-year affiliation with the Baltimore Orioles from 1961- 2002 and a 33-year partnership with the St. Louis Cardinals from 1928-60.
"The Minnesota Twins is an organization that develops quality major leaguers through their minor league system," Silver said. "While that clearly does not guarantee us a winner every year, we believe that the development bodes well for us in most years. The Twins believe in the same thing we do - teaching these quality players to play hard, build good character, and be role models on the field and in the community. We are excited to renew our working agreement and we look forward to the conclusion of this fantastic season and the next two years."
"The Red Wings organization and the City of Rochester have been very good to us and this is the place we want to be," said Twins General Manager Terry Ryan. "Ownership, the front-office staff, and, of course, the fans have always made us feel very special and welcome in Rochester."
Rochester has posted winning records in five of the first nine seasons of the partnership, and the Red Wings in 2012 are on pace for a sixth with a 65-61 record with 18 games remaining. The Red Wings have the best record in the International League beginning July 1 at 28-16, and they are only three and a half games out of a post-season berth.
The Red Wings have made one post-season appearance during the first nine years of the partnership, advancing to the 2006 Governors' Cup against Toledo (Tigers) and losing three games to two. The Twins have won five American League Central Division titles in nine seasons as the parent club of the Red Wings, missing a sixth division title by one game in 2008.
"We are proud and honored to be a part of the Minnesota Twins family," Red Wings General Manager Mason said. "The great baseball fans of the Rochester community should also be proud to be associated with such a first-class franchise. Our relationship is stronger than ever before."
"I am very happy that we once again will be partners in Rochester," said Twins Senior Director of Minor Leagues Jim Rantz. "Our relationship over the years has been nothing but major league. Our players enjoy the city and enjoy playing here. They also appreciate the terrific fan support. We look forward to the coming years and fielding a winning team in Rochester."
The Red Wings have produced three International League Rookies of the Year: Jason Kubel in 2004, Francisco Liriano in 2005, and Randy Ruiz in 2008. Rochester has also produced two IL batting titles (Kubel in 2004 and Ruiz in 2008) and two IL ERA leaders (Scott Baker in 2005 and Kevin Slowey in 2007).