The Storm Chasers had a strong month of August, holding a 16-11 record. In August, the bats were around the league average with a .254 batting average, good for 11th in the International League. They also were 10th in on-base percentage and 16th in slugging percentage out of the twenty teams in the league. The pitching was dominant throughout the month, posting a 3.29 ERA, good for 1st in the league by a wide margin (2nd had a 3.74 ERA). They also led the league in WHIP (1.17) and OBA (.214). Just a reminder that the team has already secured a playoff berth after a scorching hot start to the season, going 49-24 in the first half. Their playoff roster is rounding into form as the postseason draws nearer to its start on September 24th. The Storm Chasers will be hosting the first best-of-three series at Werner Park.
Hitter of the Month
Nick Loftin (2B)
August stats: 22 G, .358/.436/.494, .930 OPS
5 2B, 2 HR, 16 RBI, 11 BB, 10 K, 1 SB
Loftin has gone back and forth between Omaha and Kansas City often this season, but he always seems to perform well when he’s with the Storm Chasers. He provided incredible on-base ability for the team in August, racking up 29 hits and 11 walks. His keen eye at the plate led to a month in which he walked more than he struck out. He led the team in AVG, OBP, OPS, RBIs, and hits. He will be a key piece to the Storm Chasers’ playoff success in a few weeks.
Pitcher of the Month
Noah Cameron (SP)
August stats: 31.2 IP, 1.71 ERA, 0.88 WHIP, 36 K, 8 BB, .180 OBA
The 25-year-old lefty has had a dominant start to his time in Triple-A. His most impressive outing to date came on Saturday when he pitched 7 innings, giving up 5 hits, 1 run, 0 walks, and 10 strikeouts. All five of his starts in August were quality starts, and he is six for six in earning quality starts since joining the team. He has provided an excellent boost to Omaha’s starting rotation and, like Loftin, will play an integral part in the Storm Chasers’ postseason success.
Image credit: Mark Kuhlmann/Omaha Storm Chasers