Juan David Torres is among 10 players currently set to return to the Charleston Battery in 2025 after having his contract option exercised. | Photo courtesy Michael Wiser / Charleston Battery
CHARLESTON, S.C. – The Charleston Battery announced on Monday it had exercised contract options on defender Nathan Dossantos and midfielders Arturo Rodriguez and Juan David Torres as part of the club’s initial roster moves heading into the 2025 USL Championship season.
Ten players are currently set to return following the club’s run to the Eastern Conference Final of the 2024 USL Championship Playoffs, with defenders Leland Archer, Josh Drack, Graham Smith and Mark Segbers, midfielder Aaron Molloy and forwards MD Myers and Zeke Soto previously under contract.
“We have had an incredible two years at this club and we want to continue to build off our tremendous successes,” said Battery Head Coach Ben Pirmann. “We are excited to bring these players back, as it is clear they are great footballers, and even better people. This group has laid the foundation for continued growth on and off the pitch. We want to continue to push for trophies, serve our community and altogether bring positivity to the Lowcountry.”
The club also announced it had declined its contract option on defender Samuel Biek and the retirement of goalkeeper Adam Grinwis after 11 seasons in the professional ranks across Major League Soccer and the USL Championship.
The Battery also announced seven players were entering free agency – Chris Allan, Jackson Conway, Robbie Crawford, Daniel Kuzemka, Juan Sebastian Palma, Prince Saydee and Emilio Ycaza – with the club set to continue to assess and evaluate players including those from the 2024 squad to finalize its roster for the new campaign.
Jay Chapman will return to Hartford Athletic following the completion of his loan spell in the Lowcountry.
Nick Markanich is set to formally make his to Spanish LaLiga 2 side CD Castellón when the winter European transfer window opens.
"We are forever thankful for all of the players and staff that have given to this club,” said Pirmann. “The hard work, the passion and dedication, as well as the utmost selflessness is beyond appreciated by everyone involved.”