Mariners to build academy in Dominican Republic

SEATTLE (AP) - The Seattle Mariners have announced plans to build a baseball academy in the Dominican Republic serving players from Latin America.

The Mariners revealed their plans on Wednesday and said they expected to complete the project near the end of 2013. The academy will be able to accommodate two full teams and staff. For the past decade, the Mariners have rented a facility in the Dominican Republic.

General manager Jack Zduriencik says the facility will help not only with the development of prospects in the Dominican Republic, but also throughout Latin America.

The facility will include two full-sized fields, other smaller practice fields and dormitory space for up to 80 players plus staff. The facility will be constructed near Boca Chica, about 30 miles east of Santo Domingo.