During the month of July the Lake Elsinore Storm struggled over the first half of the month and then began to improve their play and finished the month with a winning record.

Catcher Robert Lara was a big reason for the improvement. He carried a .280 to .300 or better average for the month and showed improved power in his offense.

The most improved player for the month was 1B/DH Allan Dykstra. His line for the month was .241/.402/.519, showing improved production gradually over the season. For July he had 7 2B, 5 HR, 20 RBI, 21 BB with 34 SO. He is showing improved patience at the plate and is beginning to show better discipline with RISP (.269 avg). These numbers might not necessarily excite the fan base but is showing better performance for Allan. For those who may not remember, the Padres coaching staff rebuilt his swing during this last offseason and he has struggled to find his stroke and be consistent.

The Storm Pitcher of the month is left handed reliever Rob Musgrave. Because of the limited innings for the starting staff since the All Star break the relief staff has had more opportunity to shine and Rob has taken advantage. In his 21 IP for the month he has allowed 15 H, 2 ER, 6 BB, and 28 K’s for a 0.86 ERA and a .205 avg against. By far his best performance of the season.