The Lancaster Stormers, a prominent team in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball, are set to change ownership. The newly-formed Prospector Baseball Group (PBG) announced plans to acquire the team, marking their first purchase. Founded by sports executive John Abbamondi and investor Ben Boyer, PBG aims to create a community-driven Minor League Baseball collective. Abbamondi expressed pride in maintaining and building on the Stormers' commitment to Lancaster County and Central Pennsylvania.
The Stormers, established in 2005, have achieved significant success, including four Atlantic League championships, with titles in 2022 and 2023. They play at Penn Medicine Park, a three-time Ballpark Digest MLB Partner League Ballpark of the Year winner. The previous ownership group, consisting of Bob Zuckerman, Steve Zuckerman, Ian Ruzow, and Rob Liss, has been involved with the team since its inception and became sole owners in 2013.
Prospector Baseball Group plans to focus on community engagement and enhancing the fan experience while maintaining the Stormers' competitive excellence. They intend to empower local leadership and provide resources to attract top talent.
The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions and approvals. As PBG's first acquisition, they plan to expand by purchasing more teams, aiming for up to 15 in the future. The transition is expected to maintain the Stormers' role as a community hub and a beloved local institution.
Abbamondi and Boyer, though not locally based, are committed to preserving the team's local identity while leveraging efficiencies from owning multiple teams. The Stormers will return to the field in 175 days, continuing their legacy as the longest-running franchise in the Atlantic League.