Fisher Cats, Blue Jays extend affiliation

MANCHESTER, N.H. -- The New Hampshire Fisher Cats and their parent club, the Toronto Blue Jays, announced today a new two-year extension of the Player Development Contact between the two teams. The extension of the PDC agreement means the Fisher Cats will remain the Blue Jays' Double-A affiliate through 2018, extending the relationship between Toronto and New Hampshire to 15 consecutive seasons.

"This is always an easy and enjoyable process when we extend our agreement with the Blue Jays," said Fisher Cats owner Art Solomon. "Toronto is a first-class organization with outstanding people, and they continue to provide our fans with some of the most exciting prospects in the game. We look forward to teaming with future Blue Jays to make a positive impact in the community while providing entertaining action on the field."

The Blue Jays are the only major league organization the Fisher Cats have known since their arrival in Manchester for the 2004 season. Over 11 years, Blue Jays prospects have won a pair of Eastern League titles for the Granite State and 75 former players have gone on to make their major league debut after appearing with the Fisher Cats. The 2014 season saw seven more prospects advance to the majors for the first time, including the Blue Jays' top overall prospect, pitcher Aaron Sanchez.

"We have truly enjoyed our experience with the Fisher Cats and we are excited to continue our partnership for another two seasons," said Charlie Wilson, Blue Jays Director of Minor League Operations. "When our players are in New Hampshire, we know that they get to enjoy one of the best facilities in the minor leagues while also playing in front of a dedicated fan base. Just as importantly, we know that the Fisher Cats share our goal of integrating our players into the greater fabric of their community."

"Working with the Blue Jays has been a pleasure for our team," added Fisher Cats President and General Manager Rick Brenner. "The players provide our fans with excitement on the field while representing the Blue Jays, the Fisher Cats, and themselves with class in the community. We look forward to continuing this partnership for the coming seasons."

The Fisher Cats' affiliate relationship with the Blue Jays is the longest in the Jays' minor league organization for a non-club owned team.