PITTSBURGH (AP) - The Pirates and general manager Dave Littlefield agreed Monday to a one-year contract extension through 2008, the second time in three seasons he got a new deal on opening day.

Pittsburgh has gone through 13 straight losing seasons. Littlefield was hired on July 13, 2001, and the Pirates are 314-407 since then.

Despite the lack of winning, managing general partner Kevin McClatchy cited the marked improvement in the Pirates' farm system since the 45-year-old Littlefield took over.

"He understands that our scouting and player development system is the lifeblood of this ballclub and the key to our sustained success,'' McClatchy said. "A few years ago, we set out to improve our farm system. We did, and continue to devote the necessary resources to that area of our organization. We are beginning to see the results of those efforts, as we see more homegrown talent at the major league level.''

Though most were drafted under former general manager Cam Bonifay, prospects who moved up to the majors last season included left-handers Zach Duke and Paul Maholm, right-hander Ian Snell, catcher Ryan Doumit, outfielders Chris Duffy and Nate McLouth, and first baseman Brad Eldred. All but Eldred are beginning this season in the majors.