January 26, 2012 at 4:06 PM
Red Sox renew Player Development Contract with Lowell
The Red Sox announced today that they have renewed their Player Development Contract (PDC) with the Lowell Spinners for two more seasons. The Red Sox and Spinners, who play in the New York-Penn State league, will now continue their relationship through the 2014 season.
The Spinners have been affiliated with the Boston Red Sox since they moved to Lowell prior to the 1996 season. In 1998, they moved into Edward A. LeLaucheur Park where they had a 413 game sellout streak, clearly showing the strong support of the community.
Red Sox Director of Player Development, Ben Crockett, made a point of emphasizing this when he made the announcement today along with Spinners owner, Drew Webber, and President/General Manager, Tim Bawmann.
"The Spinners organization and the community of Lowell really embrace our young players and provide them an exciting introduction to Red Sox Nation. Drew Weber, Tim Bawmann and the entire Spinners staff foster an excellent atmosphere for development and we look forward to our continued partnership," Crockett said.
Over the 21 year partnership, many past and current prospects have made their way through Lowell, including current Red Sox Clay Buchholz, Felix Doubront, Jacoby Ellsbury, and Kevin Youklis. Prospects expected to begin the year in Lowell include some of the Red Sox 2011 draft picks such as Cody Kukuk, Mookie Betts, Jordan Weems, and Williams Jerez.
The Lowell Spinners will continue to act as the Short-Season-A affiliate, joining the Pawtucket Red Sox (AAA), Portland Sea Dogs (AA), Salem Red Sox (High-A), Greenville Drive (Low-A), Golf Coast Red Sox (Rookie), and DSL Red Sox (DSL) as the Red Sox minor league organizations.