Storm Alums Head East For First Time

LAKE ELSINORE, CA - Minor League pitchers and catchers reported Friday, including four Storm alumni who will be heading to new digs after the offseason overhaul completed by the San Diego Padres. They are:

Joe Ross (2014) - Washington Nationals

The hard-throwing righty, who was traded to the Nats as part of the three-team swap that landed Wil Myers with the Padres, will make his first career appearance in the Grapefruit League. Ross arrives in Melbourne, FL with an impressive 2014 behind him. The 2011 first round pick excelled in Lake Elsinore to start the season, and a midseason promotion did nothing to hamper his success. 2015 should find Ross with the AA Harrisburg Senators of the Eastern League.

Zach Eflin (2014) - Philadelphia Phillies

Another former first round pick of the Padres, Eflin departed the San Diego system in the Matt Kemp deal. His 2014 campaign was one of consistent improvement, and the Florida native seems destined for AA Fightin Phils after his first Spring Training in his home state.

Mallex Smith (2014) - Atlanta Braves

Less than three months removed from leading all of professional baseball in stolen bases, Mallex Smith found himself the property of the Atlanta Braves as part of the Justin Upton swap. Mallex joined the Storm after the 2014 All-Star Break and his spark at the top of the lineup helped propel Lake Elsinore into the playoffs. He's also likely to start 2015 in AA, slowing down just long enough to establish himself with the Mississippi Braves.

Jace Peterson (2013) - Atlanta Braves

Joining Smith in the Braves' system is Jace Peterson, who is the only player on this list with Major League experience. The Louisiana native made his big league debut on April 25, 2014, collecting six hits in 53 at-bats. He has an outside shot at making the Major League roster when camp breaks, but he'll likely start 2015 with AAA Gwinnett Braves.

The Lake Elsinore Storm begin their 22nd season and their 15th as a Padres affiliate on Thursday, April 9. A complete schedule can be found HERE.