Helena, Milwaukee come to terms

HELENA, Mont. -- The Helena Brewers and Milwaukee Brewers announced Wednesday that the two organizations have come to an agreement to extend Milwaukee's Player Development Contract (PDC) through the 2014 season. Helena will remain as Milwaukee's advanced-rookie level in the Pioneer League. The current agreement is set to expire following the 2012 season. Milwaukee has been Helena's sole parent club since the franchise was resurrected in 2003 following a two-year absence from the league. Helena was a Milwaukee farm team between 1985-2000 as well.

"We are thrilled to continue our working relationship with the Milwaukee Brewers," Helena Brewers president/general manager Paul Fetz said. "This has been a partnership that has lasted a very long time, and in our business that is a strong sign that you have a positive, respectful and mutually beneficial relationship. As our parent club, Milwaukee has always strived to send us their best ambassadors and we appreciate it."

Since the return of professional baseball to Helena in 2003, the Helena Brewers have witnessed 30 former players make it to the Major Leagues. Helena won the Pioneer League title in 2010, the franchise's first championship since 1996.

"We are excited to extend our PDC with the Helena franchise," Milwaukee Brewers director of player development Reid Nichols said. "The Helena front office, led by Paul Fetz, is professional and responsive. The fans of Helena have given us great support."