About the Storm Chasers (AA)

The HVNABA StormChasers were established in Spring of 2025. The core group of players on that team were originally from the 2024 Fall Braves, who were randomly put together as an expansion team. However, that expansion team fared very well for a group that never played together before with the leadership of Elvis Gonzales and Mike Balles. These two were brand new to HVNABA, but not new to baseball, and were playing in other Hudson Valley leagues. 

 

After the positive experience in Fall 2024, Elvis and Mike decided to move the team into the AA division with hopes to make a run for a championship. The talent of the team shined through, but the outcome of the season was one that left much to be desired. Though, there were several very bright stars on the team and the foundation for years to come was established. 

 

For the 2025 Fall season, the StormChasers were led by Elvis Gonzales once again, and the team finished the season with a 7-1 record which put them in the chanpionship game. Unfortunately, the team came up short of the title, but it left several players on the team with a taste in their mouths that would only be changed with another title run. Elvis had made the decision prior to the Fall that he would be stepping away from the StormChasers following the Fall season. Mike had agreed to take the leadership role of the team and revamp the roster for a run in the Spring.

 

A roster has now been formulated for Spring 2026 comprised of returning core players, players from the Fall team, and other talented players from a variety of backgrounds. Mike expects to lead this team in the right direction with the help of new Assistant Coach, Ryan Vitagliano. This team is built to succeed, but championships were never won by creating a great roster. The Chasers plan to bring their best to field every week this season.