The Storm finished their series with Modesto Nuts by taking 2 out of the last 3. They then took on the Inland Empire for 4 games, taking 3 out of 4. Thereby ending the week 5 of 7 and continuing their grip on first place in the Southern division of the Cal League.  They are dominating with strong pitching from both the starters and the bullpen, combined with 5 of their position regulars who continue to hit well over .300 and a balanced attack.

Lake Elsinore is keeping up their side of the duel with the Tampa Bay Rays for the best record in professional baseball.

The Storm played host to rehabbing Padre LF Kyle Blanks, who is recovering from his elbow strain by serving as DH for the Storm. Kyle started off slow with his swing but was able to contribute 2 2B and 2 RBI.

The roster changes during the week included bringing in right-handed reliever Eric Gonzalez (native of the Canary Islands) from extended spring training and sending  OF Yefri Carvajal up to the SA Missions. Catcher Ali Solis again rejoined the Storm from his relief spell with the Beavers.

Outstanding pitching for the week came from starter Erik Davis (6-2) who pitched 6 shutout innings giving up 1 hit and compiling 9 strikeouts against Inland Empire. Juan Oramas again distinguished himself with 6 strong innings against Inland Empire. He gave up 7 hits but only 1 run with 6 strikeouts, lowering his ERA to 1.76.

2B Cole Figueroa had a great week hitting 12/23  with 8 runs scored, a double and triple, 6 RBI and 8 BB improving his average from .329 to .344 hitting in the second position for most of the season.  His OBP of .650 for the week was partially responsible for the 45 runs scored by the Storm during the week. He is part of the most successful top 4 in the league during this time. With SS Drew Cumberland, OF Dan Robertson and 3B Vince Belnome frequently serving in those other positions.

The Storm is searching for a consistent No 4 and has used several different players in that position but continue to win despite who is hitting cleanup. Both Jaff and Cody Decker, Kyle Blanks and OF Blake Tekotte have taken their turns during the last week. 1B and DH Allan Dykstra has been playing periodically while working on his swing. His current average .215 has improved over the last two weeks and his strikeout rate has dropped somewhat. He continues to struggle with finding a swing that makes consistent contact.

Going into the last week of the first half of the season, Lake Elsinore dominates and looks to easily win the first half championship.