Lake Elsinore Storm’s Manager Carlos Lezcano describes Storm baseball as “A fun place to come with the family.” In an invitation to Padres fans he said, “If you come up once, you will come again.”

Thunder the Storm's Mascot

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Likely Lezcano’s assessment is correct. In just a one-hour drive up the 15 freeway, you will have a great time as you discover the Storm’s majestic ballpark located alongside Lake Elsinore.

Taking in a Storm baseball game is a great outing for San Diegans who are either pure baseball fans or families just looking for some fun, quality entertainment for dirt cheap prices.

A quick glance at the Storm's schedule reveals that every home game is a promotional night. Impressive considering the most expensive ticket is only $10.00.

Brian, Brad and Bryce Enjoy a Free Hotdog

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My first experience with the Storm was on a Wednesday. Wednesdays are Nickelodeon Family Nights. On Family Night, kids (ages 14 and under) are two for one, eat for free, get a free kids program and free parking is available in Lot C.

Murrieta resident John Wilson took two of his kids to their first Storm game. He described Storm baseball as, “A great value and great for families.” Wilson and his kids sat just a few rows behind home plate and he estimated that the total cost of the evening out would be less than $30.00. Meanwhile, his son Brad exclaimed, “The hotdogs are delicious!”

In addition to exciting baseball, on-field announcer Dave McCoy keeps the fun going with approximately six crowd participation events between innings.

McCoy started with the Storm three years ago when he and his wife would come to games dressed as Mr.and Mrs. Incredible, throwing Frisbees to the crowd with their company. McCoy has discovered that he loves entertaining crowds and now works with the Storm to create and run fun activities.

Getting Slimed at Nickelodeon Family Night

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In describing the difference between the minor leagues and the majors, McCoy said, “It is much more relaxed and much more family oriented.” This allows him to be creative and do activities that you would not see at the major league level.

Along with the activities on the field, there is much for kids to do who may have a hard time sitting still for nine innings. Similar to Petco Park, the Storm has a park for kids that features attractions that Petco does not. This includes free playground equipment and inflatable play areas for kids to bounce off some calories for just $1 each.

With all this fun, there is still a professional baseball game being played on the field. The Storm is the Padres’ Class A minor league affiliate and where pitcher Jake Peavy began his Padre career.

The good news for Padres fans is that the Storm is a wining baseball team. They are currently in second place in their league. Much of their success can be attributed to some young Peavy-like arms who can throw the ball over 90 miles per hour with movement. A few arms to keep a close eye on are, Bryan Oland, Corey Kluber and Jeremy Hefner. Last year Hefner was Minor League Pitcher of the Year for the Padres’ organization.

If you would like to have some fun previewing your future Padres, go to the Storm's website for tickets and a list of nightly promotions.