The Lexington Legends announced a new Major League Baseball affiliation on Thursday, switching from the Houston Astros to the Kansas City Royals.

The Legends' new player development contract with Kansas City runs through the 2016 season.

Lexington was an affiliate of the Astros since the team began play in 2001.

The Legends will continue to play in the Class A South Atlantic League.

The Royals' previous Class A affiliate was the Kane County Cougars of the Midwest League.