The Kane County Cougars on Wednesday announced the signing of a two-year player development contract with the Chicago Cubs.

Effective Sept. 19, the agreement does not affect the ownership, management or front office staff of the Kane County Cougars in any manner.

The Cougars organization looks forward to April 4, which is Opening Night at Fifth Third Bank Ballpark, and the first home game featuring the Cougars' new affiliation with the Cubs.

"We are extremely excited about our new relationship with the Chicago Cubs,” said Cougars General Manager Curtis Haug. "The close proximity between both organizations will be mutually beneficial in numerous ways. We believe that the Cubs organization and their philosophies about the minor leagues, including scouting, player development, and involvement in the community, are a fantastic fit for our franchise.”

News of the Cougars and Cubs partnership broke in August, but both sides remained mum until the deal was sealed.

"The decision to change affiliation is never an easy one, particularly after a tremendous two-year relationship with the Kansas City Royals. Both on and off the field, Royals front office staff and coaches were the epitome of class, and the players represented the Cougars with professionalism throughout our affiliation. We’d particularly like to thank (Royals VP of Baseball Operations/Assistant GM) J.J. Picollo and (Royals Director of Minor League Operations) Scott Sharp, for being so instrumental in ensuring a great personal relationship between both of our organizations.”

"We are excited at the opportunity to work with the Kane County franchise,” said Cubs Senior Vice President of Scouting/Player Development Jason McLeod. "The benefits of having one of our minor league clubs this close to Chicago are numerous and we look forward to starting this new relationship.”

The arrival of (President, Baseball Operations) Theo Epstein, (General Manager) Jed Hoyer and (Senior VP of Scouting/Player Development) Jason McLeod has brought a renewed sense of optimism to the Cubs organization within the past year. Prospects such as Anthony Rizzo, Brett Jackson and Josh Vitters, along with a plethora of other prospects throughout the Cubs farm system, have strengthened the organization as having one of the deepest and most prospect-laden farm systems in Major League Baseball.

Fans can call the Cougars at 630-232-8811 to inquire about season ticket, partial-season ticket packages and catered event group outings, as well as corporate sponsorship opportunities.

About the Cubs, Cougars: The history of the Cubs dates back to 1876. Several of the many Hall-of-Famers who spent all or most of their big league careers as Cubs include Hack Wilson, Mordecai Brown, Billy Williams, Ryne Sandberg, Fergie Jenkins, Ernie Banks and Ron Santo. The Cougars organization, which began in 1991, has had at least one former player make a Major League debut in each season, dating back to 1993. The list includes Major League All-Stars, World Series champions and former Rookie of the Year, Gold Glove and Silver Slugger award winners. Through the 2012 season, more than 9.5 million fans have attended a Cougars game and the organization is anticipating its 10 millionth fan in 2013.

This information was courtesy of the Kane County Cougars.