Dodgers Switch Class A Affiliation From Inland Empire To Rancho Cucamonga

The Dodgers are switching their advanced Class A affiliation in the California League from Inland Empire to Rancho Cucamonga Quakes beginning next year, the team announced today. It is a two-year agreement, through 2012.

The Quakes were an Angels affiliate for the last 10 seasons, and is owned and run by Brett Sports, which is run by pine tar enthusiast George Brett and his brothers Bobby and John. Their other brother Ken pitched for the Dodgers in 1979.

"We feel like the move to Rancho not only brings our High A partner closer to Dodger Stadium, but is a strong fit for our organizational goals," said Dodger Assistant General Manager De Jon Watson. "We're excited to partner with Brett Sports and look forward to a long-lasting relationship." The Quakes play at The Epicenter, roughly 44.7 miles from Dodger Stadium, compared to the 60.5 miles between Dodger Stadium and Arrowhead Credit Union Park in San Bernardino, home of the 66ers.

Speaking of Inland Empire, Baseball America speculates that the Angels, without an advanced Class A affiliate agreement yet for 2011, will likely partner up with the 66ers.

The Dodgers were affiliated with Inland Empire from 2007-2010, and were previously affiliated with San Bernardino from 1995-2000.

This year, the Dodgers have extended agreements with Double A Chattanooga, Class A Great Lakes, and rookie league Ogden through 2014, and reached agreements with Triple A Albuquerque and Class A Rancho Cucamonga through 2012.