Extensions

In Milwaukee Bob Melvin's contract was extended through 2009. The extension is for three years and rewards Melvin for his role in helping to rebuild the club's farm system and making key personnel additions this year to give Milwaukee its first .500 season in thirteen years.

The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim also extended a management official -- Mike Scioscia -- field manager of the club. For the past six seasons Scioscia has guided the Angels to three playoff appearances and one World Championship title. The extension shows the respect for Scioscia that general manager Bill Stoneman and owner Arte Moreno have for his managerial skills and also their committment to continuity. Another effect of this extension is that it greatly solidifies Scioscia's position in the Angel clubhouse.

Perhaps more teams will begin to follow the Atlanta Brave model of organizational stability that seems to have worked so well for them. The Angels have just taken that step and the Brewers will if manager Ned Yost is extended beyond 2006 when his contract currently ends. Other clubs with Brave-like continuity are the San Diego Padres (Kevin Towers/Bruce Bochy) and St. Louis Cardinals (Walt Jocketty/Tony LaRussa).