Dave Oster, president and general manager of the Lake Elsinore Storm for the past 16 years, is moving on, in a transition announced by the High A California League team today.
“It’s been a great run but it’s the right time for change,” Oster said via press release. “I’m thankful we have been able to produce so many local and national programs together, and in doing so I’ve met and worked with countless talented people over the years.
“Gary Jacobs and Len Simon, owners of the Storm, have been tremendous to work for during my time with the team,” he added. “It’s been an incredible adventure.”
Oster’s plan: he provide consulting services with the Storm and other Minor League teams moving forward, and in addition has plans to grow his California-based action sports marketing and events company.
“The Storm has been very fortunate to have Dave Oster as GM and President for 16 years,” Jacobs said. “He came to the team the year before Len and I purchased the Storm and brought the organization to a new level.”
“Other Minor League teams have been inspired by Storm promotions, sales programs and community activities that were created by Dave,” Simon added.
Oster played a vital part in taking the Storm national and making “The Eyes” one of the most recognizable brands in baseball. Under his leadership, the franchise has been honored for its promotions and marketing as baseball’s Larry MacPhail Award winner, recognized locally as Business of the Year multiple times and championed the global “Going Green” movement, making an industry-wide impact that is still in place today. Dave was also named Lake Elsinore’s Citizen of the year in 2013. On the field, Oster’s tenure included two California League championships, a Minor League Team of the Year award, 13 playoff appearances and the 2009 California-Carolina League All-Star Game.
Oster will not be replaced, at least not immediately. Third-year Storm Baseball General Manager Raj Narayanan and Assistant General Manager Mark Beskid (Marketing) will continue to run the day-to-day operations of the franchise. Tim Arseneau will become General Manager of Golden State Concessions and Catering and Lake Elsinore Storm Stadium Operations.
“It’s been an honor and a pleasure working with Dave over the last six-plus years,” Narayanan said. “It’s no secret that his impact has been felt throughout Minor League Baseball, but perhaps even more so in our local community. The number of successful GMs and other executives that have been developed under Dave is a testament to his work and knowledge. The entire Storm organization wishes Dave the best in his new endeavors and we’re all grateful for his passion, energy and knowledge he has shared.”
“Dave has been the unequivocal guiding force of the Lake Elsinore Storm since 2000,” 20-year Storm broadcaster Sean McCall said. “Cheers to a new chapter and continued prosperity, for him and for all of us.”