The Brewers have signed a player development contract with the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers, returning Brewers-affiliated baseball to the state and the Midwest League.

The Brewers announced the four-year contract today in Appleton, where the Timber Rattlers play their home games.

The Timber Rattlers replace the West Virginia Power as the Brewers' low Class A affiliate. The Timber Rattlers have been affiliated with the Seattle Mariners for the past 16 seasons.

Brewers general manager Doug Melvin said Fox Cities Stadium, the Brewers fan base in Appleton and the proximity to Milwaukee all provide a great opportunity for the ball club.

The Beloit Snappers were the last Brewers affiliate in the state. They were affiliated with the Brewers from 1995 to 2004.