Hillcats Sign Player Development Contract with Braves
"We are very excited to form this partnership with the Atlanta Braves," said Lynchburg Hillcats General Manager Paul Sunwall. "The Braves have a strong fan base in the Central Virginia area and we are looking forward to working with this premier organization."
During the 2010 season the Cincinnati Reds fulfilled the final year of a two-year agreement with the Pittsburgh Pirates. The Pirates served as Lynchburg's parent club for 15 seasons prior to last year. This past season while serving as the High-A affiliate of the Reds, the Hillcats had an overall record of 61-77 and finished in seventh place in the composite standings in the eight-team Carolina League. The Braves were previously affiliated with the Myrtle Beach Pelicans in the Carolina League from 1999 through last season.
"We are excited to enter into a new relationship in Lynchburg," said Braves Executive Vice President and General Manager, Frank Wren. "We have a great respect for Calvin Falwell and Paul Sunwall and the baseball operation in Lynchburg. We think it will be a great new affiliation to add to our system and the close proximity to Danville is ideal for our player development."
A press conference will be held on Friday, September 24th at Lynchburg City Stadium to discuss the recently-signed agreement. The exact location and a time for the press conference are still to be determined.
The 2011 season will get underway on April 8th and the home opener is set for April 15th at Lynchburg City Stadium. Season and book tickets go on sale on October 1st. You can purchase tickets by stopping by the ticket office Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., or call us at 434-528-1144.