RedHawks, Astros Extend Contract

The Oklahoma City RedHawks and Houston Astros announced back on Sept. 11 that the two organizations have agreed to extend their Player Development Contract through the 2014, keeping OKC as the Astros' Triple-A affiliate for two more years.

"We are very happy to continue our relationship with the Houston Astros," RedHawks President & General Manager Michael Byrnes said in a press release. "The Astros are in the middle of a new and exciting chapter in their franchise's storied history, and we're proud to be a part of it."

The RedHawks became an Astros affiliate prior to the 2011 season. After a 68-75 campaign in the inaugural season, the RedHawks improved to 78-65 in 2012. Oklahoma City finished in second place in the PCL's American Southern Division by just 1.5 games, marking the best record for a non-playoff team in franchise history.

The Astros, on the other hand, are a MLB-worst 48-102, 43.5 games out of first place.

"We are excited to continue our relationship with Oklahoma City and the RedHawks for another two years," Astros GM Jeff Luhnow said. "The facility is first rate and the environment is excellent for the highest level of minor league baseball. Our prospects benefit from playing there."

Among the current active players on the Astros roster, 18 logged time with the RedHawks in 2012, not including rehab assignments. Tony DeFrancesco served as RedHawks manager for the better part of two seasons before being named Astros interim manager in August.

The RedHawks will open the 2013 season on April 4 in Memphis, and the home opener is Friday, April 12, also against Memphis.