Mets and Savannah Extend Player Development Partnership through 2012
Published on August 26, 2010 under South Atlantic League (SAL1)
Savannah Sand Gnats News Release
FLUSHING, N.Y., August 26, 2010 - The New York Mets and Savannah Sand Gnats today announced a two-year extension of their player development partnership through 2012.
Mets catcher Josh Thole played 117 games for the Gnats of the South Atlantic League during his progression to the major leagues. Savannah, which won the first half championship at 42-28, is going to the playoffs for the first time as a Mets affiliate. The Mets and Gnats partnership began prior to the 2007 season.
"We are very pleased to extend our relationship with the Gnats and the city of Savannah," said Adam Wogan, Mets Director, Minor League Operations. "Historic Grayson Stadium has never looked better, and thanks to the tireless efforts of the Gnats ownership and the city of Savannah, has one of the best playing surfaces in the South Atlantic League."
"The Mets have been a tremendous partner for us, both on the field and in our community," said John Katz, Gnats Team President. "It is a great testament to the dedication of our fans, ownership and staff that the Mets will continue to field their Class-A affiliate right here in Savannah and the Coastal Empire for at least the next two seasons."
Over the past three years, the Sand Gnats and the City of Savannah have made numerous improvements to Historic Grayson Stadium. A new state-of-the-art video board, large fans to cool fans in the grandstand, new eco-friendly field lighting, and a brand-new playing surface, with superior drainage and irrigation systems, were all in place prior to the 2008 season. An expanded leftfield picnic area was completed during the 2009 season, and Land Shark Landing opened this summer, providing additional seating and full-service concession areas for Sand Gnats fans.
The extension will create the longest period of stability for the Savannah franchise since an 11-year affiliation with the St. Louis Cardinals that ran from 1984 to 1995.
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