Zephyrs, Marlins sign two-year pact

The New Orleans Zephyrs and Miami Marlins have agreed to a two-year extension of their player development contract, running through the end of the 2014 season.

The Marlins will continue to provide the players and coaching personnel for the Zephyrs. The latest extension means the Zephyrs will operate with the same parent club for at least six years, surpassed only by an eight-year run with the Houston Astros from 1997-2004.

"We are excited to continue our relationship with the Miami Marlins," said Mike Schline, Zephyrs General Manager. "They are a great organization to work with, and we look forward to another two years of partnering with the Marlins on and off the field."

"One of the most important parts of any partnership are the people you work with and the relationships that are formed," said Brian Chattin, Marlins Director of Player Development. "There's something to be said for the people you work with and treat you the right way."

Despite having the final week of the 2012 season interrupted by Hurricane Isaac, the Zephyrs finished with their first winning season since 2007.

The 2013 campaign will get underway on Thursday, April 4 against the Nashville Sounds.