• Find team by: Affiliation | Class | Geography
     
08/25/2008 7:05 PM ET
Padres, Emeralds renew PDC
Eugene Emeralds

ADVERTISEMENT
The Eugene Emeralds and the San Diego Padres have announced that the two organizations will sign a new four year player development contract Monday afternoon at Civic Stadium.

Emeralds President Bob Beban and Grady Fuson, the Padres Vice President of Scouting and Player Development, will sign the agreement.

The Ems have been an affiliate of the Padres since the 2001 season, after two campaigns with the Chicago Cubs. The relationship between the parties is outstanding. Both the Emeralds and the Padres were eager to renew the existing contract.

"The renewal of our partnership in Eugene brings a lot of excitement for the future," said Fuson. "A new stadium for 2010 along with the continued support from Bob Beban and his staff, make this one of the most enjoyable environments for our young players to start their careers."

Beban pointed out that the reasons for the Emeralds to renew with the Padres were simple. "San Diego is a first class organization with great player development personnel with a very solid future." Beban continued, "Their community based initiatives such as the Outreach Program led by Tim Katzman was also a major factor in our decision. I anticipate our relationship to continue for a long time."

In the eight plus seasons the Emeralds have been affiliated with the Padres the Emeralds have compiled a 284-313 (.476) record including a 35-30 (.538) this season. Unfortunately, the Emeralds have not qualified for the Northwest League Championship Series under the Padres banner.

During the affiliation, 12 players have advanced to the Major Leagues including current Padres outfielder Chase Headley, shortstop Khalil Greene and catcher Nick Hundley. Boston Red Sox hurler David Pauley, Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Jason Bartlett and Detroit Tigers pitcher Eddie Bonine were all drafted by San Diego and began their careers in the Willamette Valley.

Since 2001, San Diego has sent 11 of the Padres 18 1st round and supplemental 1st round picks to Eugene including Greene (2002) and #1 overall selection Matt Bush (2004). Currently six players on the Padres 40-Man Roster played for the Emeralds as well as seven of the 24 non-roster Spring Training invitees.

For more information please call Bryan Beban, Director of Media Relations at 541-342-5367