The Storm continues their struggles in week 2 of the second half of the season. Fighting to score runs, they drop 5 of 7 games to three opponents during the week but succeed in winning the series against Visalia by scoring 25 runs during the 3 game series. Two storm hitters had a good week and posted very similar accomplishments for their efforts. 2B Cole Figueroa went 7/23 with 4 runs scored, 2 RBI, a double and HR with 5 BB and 1 SB. 1B/DH Cody Decker went 6/20 with 6 runs scored, 5 RBI, a double and HR and 4 BB. They both increased their averages and each had one outstanding game during the week.

The pitching staff are also having a difficult time adjusting to their second half roles. Jeremy McBryde was brought up from Fort Wayne and made his first appearance as a reliever but also started a game later in the week against Inland Empire. His line for the week,  5 IP,  6 H, 1 R, 1 BB, 4 SO left him with a 1.80 ERA and  a good start . Jeremy is repeating in LE this year due to a season ending injury half way thru last season. As a mid-season All Star for the Storm, he was really rounding into good form and developing his change up successfully when he developed back spasms and missed the rest of the season. His rehab this year began in AZL and he had 3 games in FW before being promoted to LE to try and pick up his career where he left off last season. Known for his power sinker in the low 90’s, he also possesses a plus slider and a change up in development. His projection as a mid level starter will be tested this year as he battles back from his back injury and tries to re-establish himself as one of the top pitching prospects in the system.

Anthony Bass also had a fine week on the hill, starting 2 games and maintaining his quality season. His 10 IP,  8 H,  4 ER, 3 BB, 9 SO and 1 HR left him wih a 7-3 record and 2.98 ERA for his 90.3 IP this season. By far the most productive of the Storms starters.

After completing their series against Inland Empire the Storm will play a 3 game series against San Jose, have an off day and then another 3 game series against IE. The Storm is currently in 4^th place in the Cal League with a 6-9 record, 3 games back of High Desert. Still searching for their second half identity, they need improved performances from the lower half of the lineup to pick up the offense.