LANCASTER, PA — The Lancaster Stormers have announced the return of outfielder Ariel Sandoval and shortstop Yeison Coca for the 2025 season. Both players, integral to past championships, bring proven talent and experience as the Stormers aim to continue building on their recent successes.
Sandoval, 29, is set to begin his third season with the Stormers. The Dominican Republic native joined the team during the latter part of the 2022 season and made an immediate impact. Over his time in Lancaster, Sandoval has posted an impressive .332 batting average, with 17 home runs, 85 RBIs, and 37 stolen bases in 482 at-bats. His most memorable moment came in the 2022 postseason when he delivered a clutch three-run homer in the ninth inning of Game 2 of the North Division Series, helping the Stormers advance and eventually win the championship.
“‘Sandy’ has had a great history with us,” said Stormers manager Ross Peeples. “He can play all three outfield positions and is always a threat in the middle of our lineup.”
Coca, 25, enjoyed a standout 2023 campaign as the Stormers’ everyday shortstop. The switch-hitter posted a career-best .311 batting average, contributing five home runs, 42 RBIs, and 37 stolen bases in 38 attempts. Coca also excelled in the postseason, recording 10 hits and six runs to propel the Stormers to their second consecutive championship.
“Coca can be one of the best shortstops in our league,” Peeples remarked. “He brings speed to the top of our lineup. I am looking forward once again to watch his growth as a player.”
Including Sandoval and Coca, the Stormers now have nine players under contract for the upcoming season. Fans can catch the action when Lancaster opens its 2025 season on the road against Long Island on April 25. The home opener at Penn Medicine Park is set for May 2, featuring a matchup against the Gastonia Ghost Peppers, with the first pitch scheduled for 6:45 p.m.
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