STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The Staten Island FerryHawks have continued to showcase their ability to develop professional talent, with three more players — pitchers Morgan McSweeney and Matt Dunaway, and infielder Damon Dues — having their contracts purchased this season. These signings bring Staten Island’s total to six players advancing to affiliated or international clubs in 2025.
Morgan McSweeney, the ace of Staten Island’s pitching staff, had his contract purchased by the Miami Marlins following a stellar first half. The 27-year-old right-hander went 4-2 with a 3.00 ERA and 41 strikeouts over 10 starts, showcasing sharp command and consistency each time he took the mound. Originally drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in the 17th round of the 2019 MLB Draft (498th overall) out of Wake Forest, McSweeney reached Triple-A before joining the Atlantic League with Gastonia in 2024. This season marked his debut with the FerryHawks — and his standout performance has now earned him a return to affiliated baseball.
Matt Dunaway is headed to affiliated ball for the first time in his career, as the San Francisco Giants purchased the right-hander’s contract following an impressive run with the FerryHawks. Dunaway, 26, went 4-1 with a 3.75 ERA, 37 strikeouts, and one save across 11 appearances (three starts), excelling in both long relief and spot starts. A native of Mililani, Hawaii and a product of Western Oregon University, Dunaway spent the last three and a half seasons grinding in MLB Partner Leagues — including the American Association, Frontier League, and Atlantic League — before finally earning a shot with a Major League organization. His journey is a testament to perseverance, and his success in Staten Island helped seal the opportunity.
Damon Dues, one of the league’s most dynamic offensive weapons this season, had his contract purchased by Algodoneros de Unión Laguna of the Mexican Baseball League. The 25-year-old infielder was a force at the top of the FerryHawks’ lineup, batting .331 with 5 home runs, 20 RBIs, 36 runs scored, and 23 stolen bases in just 41 games. Acquired in an offseason trade from the Lancaster Stormers — where he also hit well over .300 in 2024 — Dues brought speed, energy, and consistent production to Staten Island. He previously spent time in the San Francisco Giants system, reaching Double-A after signing as a free agent in 2021.
These three departures further cement the Atlantic League’s status as a launchpad for talent — a league where players can develop, perform, and earn attention from clubs around the world. The FerryHawks’ six total contract purchases in 2025 are a reflection of that momentum.
The organization congratulates McSweeney, Dunaway, and Dues and thanks them for their contributions to Staten Island baseball.