Lugnuts and Blue Jays Partnership Extended Through 2016

The Toronto Blue Jays minor league fans received great news today. According to multiple sources the Toronto Blue Jays and the Lansing Lugnuts have agreed to extend their player development contract for an additional two-years, which will take them to 2016.

The Lansing Lugnuts have been Toronto’s Single-A affiliate since 2005 and have seen major leaguers such as Henderson Alvarez, Brett Lawrie, Jesse Litsch, and Danny Farquhar develope in Michigan.

According to Brian Calloway, Lansing State Journal, the relationship that Toronto and Lansing have is a special one. A partnership that has lasted 20 years. In 2014, the Lugnuts drew 338, 249 fans, which was 5th highest in the Midwest League….not bad for a team that finished 30-40 good for 2nd last in the Midwest League Eastern. That is an average of 4832 fans per game, that is down from last years 5231 per game.

"“The relationship between the Lugnuts and Blue Jays is the fifth-longest partnership in the Midwest League.”"

This year has been extra special for Lansing, as they have seen a number of their players reach the majors. Lugnuts co-owner said it best,

"“This is terrific news for the city of Lansing,” said Lansing Lugnuts co-owner Tom Dickson in a press release. “The Toronto Blue Jays consistently provide high-character, high-ceiling baseball players. After watching the rapid ascent of Daniel Norris, Dalton Pompey and Kendall Graveman from the Lugnuts to the Blue Jays in just one year, we are excited to see who follows in their footsteps.”"

If Jesse Goldberg-Strassler can be believed the 2015 version of the Lansing Lugnuts will make them want to sign a 10 year extension. Give it a read and let Jesse know what you think of his projections.