LANCASTER, PA — The Lancaster Stormers are wasting no time fine-tuning their roster for the 2025 season, announcing this week that right-handed relievers Michael McAvene and Stephen Lacey will be joining the squad. With these relievers under contract, the Stormers bring their preseason roster count to four, laying the groundwork for another run at Atlantic League glory.
Michael McAvene Returns After Strong 2024 Stint
Michael McAvene, a 27-year-old Indiana native, first joined the Stormers late in the 2024 season after a trade from the Evansville Otters of the Frontier League. Despite a brief window of opportunity, McAvene made an immediate impact, pitching in five regular-season games for Lancaster. He allowed just two hits across five innings, striking out eight batters while maintaining a calm presence on the mound.
Though he suffered a loss to Hagerstown on September 12, McAvene displayed consistency and power in Lancaster’s bullpen. He was also part of the postseason, earning credit for 1/3 of an inning during a pivotal moment when York’s Jacob Rhinesmith was thrown out stealing.
McAvene’s resume includes a solid foundation in the Chicago Cubs organization, which selected him in the third round of the 2019 MLB draft. He spent four seasons in their system, reaching as high as Class AA Tennessee, and demonstrated his skills further with the Evansville Otters in 2024, earning eight saves and posting a 3.00 ERA. His 38 strikeouts in just 33 innings of work showcased his ability to dominate from the bullpen.
Manager Ross Peeples spoke warmly about McAvene’s contributions, stating, “(McAvene) came to us last year and threw very well. He’s a great clubhouse guy who fits in well with us.”
Stephen Lacey Blazes a New Path in Lancaster
Joining McAvene in the bullpen is Stephen Lacey, a 25-year-old native of Mississippi who is set for his Atlantic League debut. Lacey spent the last two seasons with the Chicago Dogs in the American Association, building his reputation as a versatile pitcher. Known primarily as a starter during his time with the Dogs, Lacey compiled a 5-4 record with a 3.97 ERA, a testament to his endurance and control on the mound.
Before his professional career, Lacey honed his skills in college, pitching at South Alabama and Delta State, where he demonstrated his potential to transition successfully into the pros. Now, with the opportunity to shine in Lancaster, Lacey looks ready to make his mark on the Atlantic League.
Peeples expressed his enthusiasm for the addition, saying, “Lacey is a guy we looked at last year, but he was under contract with (Chicago). He has a good arm and has put up good numbers in the AA. He wanted to come to the Atlantic League, and we are going to give him that opportunity.”
Looking Ahead to 2025
These signings represent Lancaster’s commitment to building a well-rounded bullpen and competing at the highest level. McAvene’s sharp control and Lacey’s versatility bring a mix of experience and fresh potential to the Stormers’ pitching roster.
The Stormers, who have claimed the Atlantic League championship four times in their history, are eyeing another successful season and will kick off their 2025 campaign on April 25 against the Long Island Ducks. They’ll make their long-awaited return to Clipper Magazine Stadium on May 2 for their home opener against the Gastonia Honey Hunters, providing fans with their first look at the revamped roster.
With McAvene and Lacey bolstering their pitching, Lancaster aims to continue its tradition of excellence in the Atlantic League. Fans can expect a season filled with determination, excitement, and the relentless drive that has come to define Stormers baseball. The countdown to opening day is on, and the energy is already building.
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