LANCASTER, PA — The Lancaster Stormers are making waves in the Atlantic League with some strategic roster moves, as announced by manager Ross Peeples. The addition of outfielder Niko Hulsizer, and pitchers Max Green and Ted Stuka, brings the team’s total to 21 players under contract for the 2024 season, signaling a clear intent to fortify their lineup and pitching staff as they eye another championship run.
Niko Hulsizer, a 27-year-old powerhouse from Berks County, is set to bring his explosive bat to the Stormers. After being signed by the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2018 and later joining the Tampa Bay Rays, Hulsizer has demonstrated his ability to change the game with one swing. With 78 home runs and 268 RBIs over his last four minor league seasons, and a notable performance in winter leagues abroad, his presence in the middle of the lineup is expected to inject some serious power into the Stormers’ offense. Despite a modest .212 average last season at Class AAA Durham, Hulsizer’s 17 homers and 63 RBIs speak volumes about his potential impact.
Joining him in the new signings are pitchers Max Green and Ted Stuka, both hailing from the Detroit Tigers’ farm system. Green, a 27-year-old lefty reliever, boasts a solid track record with a 2.83 ERA in 36 relief appearances for Class A+ Lakeland in 2019. His performance, coupled with a strong comeback from injury last season, has caught the attention of Lancaster’s pitching coach Mark Johnson, who praises Green’s live arm and sees him as a valuable addition to the bullpen.
Stuka, on the other hand, represents a high-risk, high-reward player. The 26-year-old right-hander has had a rocky start to his professional career, posting a 6.75 ERA across various levels. However, his mid-90s fastball and recent efforts to refine his delivery have convinced the Stormers’ management to take a chance on him. Peeples expressed excitement about giving Stuka an opportunity to prove himself, highlighting the potential upside of his powerful arm.
As the Stormers gear up to defend their title starting April 25 against the Long Island Ducks, these new signings underscore the team’s commitment to building a competitive roster capable of making a deep playoff run. The blend of Hulsizer’s slugging, Green’s pitching prowess, and Stuka’s potential for improvement could be the key ingredients the Stormers need to dominate in the upcoming season.
With the home opener set for five days after their season debut, against the Hagerstown Flying Boxcars at Clipper Magazine Stadium, fans are buzzing with anticipation. The Stormers’ latest moves not only promise exciting baseball action but also demonstrate the team’s determination to remain at the pinnacle of the Atlantic League. As Lancaster looks to solidify its status as a powerhouse, the 2024 season is shaping up to be one for the books.
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