LANCASTER, PA — The Lancaster Stormers are setting the stage for a thrilling season as they welcome catcher Jack Conley and former San Francisco Giants left-hander Caleb Baragar to their roster, alongside a tryout opportunity for local talent Antonio Barranca. Manager Ross Peeples made the announcement today, highlighting the team’s strategic moves ahead of spring training.
Jack Conley, 27, who stepped into the spotlight last season, taking on the majority of catching duties for the Stormers, has officially signed on for another year. His defensive prowess was on full display across 97 games, where he not only showcased his skills behind the plate but also contributed significantly at bat with a .237 average, six homers, and 40 RBI. Notably, Conley’s agility led him to steal 29 bases, ranking him third in the team and even pulling off a daring straight steal of home in a game against Lexington on June 29. His clutch performances, especially in critical matchups against York and in the Championship Game at Gastonia, have solidified his reputation as a key player for the Stormers.
“Conley is one of the best defensive catchers in the league,” Peeples remarked. “He’s a great guy in the clubhouse, but when he crosses the line, he always has his game face on.”
Adding to the pitching strength, Caleb Baragar, 30, joins the Stormers bringing his MLB experience from his time with the Giants, where he achieved a commendable 2.78 ERA across 49 games between the 2020 and 2021 seasons. Baragar’s tenure with the Giants was marked by impressive streaks of scoreless innings, highlighting his ability to maintain composure and deliver under pressure. After his stint in the big league, Baragar continued to refine his skills in Class AAA with the Arizona Diamondbacks and Cleveland Indians, preparing him for a pivotal role in the Stormers’ rotation.
“Baragar is a veteran pitcher who will come in and start for us,” said Peeples. “He throws strikes and will be a valuable piece to our rotation.”
The Stormers are also giving a shot to young catcher Antonio Barranca, a York native with a promising future. The 22-year-old, who spent two seasons in the Atlanta farm system, is attending camp on a tryout waiver, looking to make an impact and earn his place on the team. As the son of former Major League infielder German Barranca, Antonio carries a legacy of baseball excellence that he hopes to continue with the Stormers.
With these strategic additions and the anticipation of discovering new talent like Barranca, the Lancaster Stormers are poised for a strong performance in the upcoming season. The team’s quest for a third consecutive Atlantic League title begins at Long Island on Thursday, April 25, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting 20th year at Clipper Magazine Stadium.
As spring training kicks off and the exhibition game schedule gets underway, fans and players alike are gearing up for a season filled with potential, teamwork, and the pursuit of baseball excellence.
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