Seattle extends PDC with High Desert

SEATTLE -- Seattle Mariners executive vice president and general manager Jack Zduriencik announced today the extension of the Player Development Contract with the High Desert Mavericks (Class A Advanced). The Player Development Contract, which would have run out at the end of the 2010 season, has been extended to cover the 2011-'12 seasons.

The Mariners had previously announced extensions with Triple-A Tacoma (four-year), rebranded Double-A Jackson (two-year), Class A Clinton (two-year), Class A Short-Season Everett (two-year) and Rookie-level Pulaski (two-year).

"We are very pleased to have completed a new agreement with High Desert," said Zduriencik. "The commitment from the organization and their fans made this an easy decision. Now that we have secured all of our Minor League affiliates through at least the 2012 season, we can continue to develop the future of the Mariners organization."

The High Desert Mavericks reached the California League playoffs for the second straight year, losing to Rancho Cucamonga in the first round.

"The relationship we have developed with the High Desert organization has been a very positive one for all those involved," said Pedro Grifol, Mariners' director of player development. "Our players will continue to be in an environment where they can succeed personally and collectively."

The Mavericks and Mariners first entered into a Player Development Contract prior to the start of the 2007 season. In the four years with the Mariners, the Mavericks have compiled a 270-290 record, including going 75-65 in 2010. Seattle has been affiliated in the California League for the past 10 years. The Mariners' California League affiliate has won the league championship twice during this stretch, including the title in 2003 and 2006.