Spokane, K.C. Keep Player Pact

The Kansas City Royals and Spokane Indians have determined that four good years are worth at least two more.

The Indians announced on Wednesday a renewal of their Player Development Contract with Kansas City, their major league parent team, through the 2000 baseball season.

The existing four-year PDC expired two weeks ago, at the end of the 1998 Northwest League season. The NWL is a short-season Class A league of eight teams.

Both sides agreed to continue the affiliation, although for two years instead of four.

Kansas City will stock the Indians’ roster with players each June. The Royals have normally sent to Spokane experienced college players, including high selections in the amateur draft.

“Over the past four years, the Royals have sent some great prospects to Spokane,” said Indians general manager Paul Barbeau. “We look forward to seeing more quality young players during the next two seasons.”

Spokane tied for first place in the NWL’s North Division with Boise this season. The Indians finished 47-29, improving their season record for the fourth consecutive year. Royals-stocked teams are 165-139 in Spokane.

“The franchise in Spokane is without a doubt the best affiliate in the Northwest League,” said Royals director of minor league operations Bob Hegman.

Jose Santiago, Jeremy Giambi, Carlos Beltran and Dermal “Dee” Brown, currently on the Royals roster, have played in Spokane on their way up to Kansas City.