STORMERS ADD BIG LEAGUE VET

Hoyt Comes to Lancaster

The Lancaster Stormers have signed Major League veteran James Hoyt, a right-handed pitcher, to a contract for the 2024 season, it was announced today by manager Ross Peeples.

By signing Hoyt, the Stormers now have 15 pitchers, but two of them, Oscar De La Cruz, the 2022 Championship Series MVP, and Junior Mieses have had their arrival delayed.

Hoyt, 37, reached the big leagues with the Houston Astros in 2016 and spent a portion of six years at the top level with Houston, Cleveland, Miami and the Los Angeles Angels.  The native of Idaho appeared in 107 games, all in relief, with a 4-1 record and 3.94 ERA.  He last appeared with the Angels in 2021, completing that season at Class AAA Salt Lake. 

The right-hander had not pitched since playing in the Dominican Winter League in 2021-22 until making his return in the Venezuelan League this past winter.  He was 1-1 in 15 appearances for Lara.

Hoyt is a success story of the MLB Partner Leagues.  He began his professional career with Yuma of the now-defunct North American Baseball League in 2011 and pitched for Edinburg of that same league and Wichita of the American Association in 2012 before signing with the Atlanta Braves for the 2013 season.

“Hoyt is a veteran pitcher who has the itch to keep playing and wants to prove himself,” said Peeples.  “We are going to give him a chance to do that.  He has good numbers across the board, and will be a veteran presence in our clubhouse to help with out youth.”