The Bowling Green Hot Rods in conjunction with the Tampa Bay Rays announced Wednesday an extension of their player development contract through the 2020 season.

“Having the Rays come to us and offer us an extension on our player development contract is a testament to the great partnership we have had since 2009,” Hot Rods general manager Eric C. Leach said in a news release. “The Rays have been a pleasure to work with and we look forward to the great talent they continue to send to Southcentral Kentucky.” 

The Hot Rods have been affiliated with the Rays since their inaugural season in 2009 and have since seen 31 former players make their major league debut.

“We truly value our relationship with the Bowling Green Hot Rods organization and are looking forward to continue to develop our players in Bowling Green for the next three seasons,” Tampa Bay Rays Director of Minor League Operations Mitch Lukevics said in a news release.

“We not only thank the Hot Rods ownership and front office staff, but also the city of Bowling Green and their fans for giving our players a great environment to develop their skills.”

In addition to the 31 players who have suited up for various major league teams, two players have gone on to play in an MLB All-Star game (Matt Moore and Alex Colome). Former Hot Rods outfielder Kevin Kiermaier is also a two-time Gold Glove winner while patrolling the outfield for the Rays.

“The Rays have been a first-class organization to work with since we became owners of the team,” Hot Rods owner Stuart Katzoff said in a news release. “We are excited about this extension of our partnership and for our fans to continue to watch the future of the Rays develop every night at Bowling Green Ballpark.”