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2010 News and Game Summary
Archive

August 30, 2010 - Isotopes (68-67)

Isotopes Park

Iowa           460 040 105 --  20  25  1
Albuquerque    002 000 034 --   9  17  2

WP: Mitch Atkins (7-3)
LP: Seth Etherton (5-7)

HR: IWA Bobby Scales (9) off Etherton (1st inning)
    IWA Jason Dubois (15) off Etherton (1st inning)
    IWA Jason Dubois (16) off Lindblom (2nd inning)
    IWA Brad Snyder (23) off Lindblom (2nd inning)
    IWA Bryan LaHair (22) off Miller (7th inning)
    IWA Bryan LaHair (23) off Denker (9th inning)
    IWA Matt Camp (2) off Etherton (2nd inning)

TIME: 3:20
ATT: 7,782
The Daniel Powter song "Bad Day" would be very appropriate for Monday evening's contest at "The Lab". Seth Etherton lasted little more than an inning before leaving due to injury, an Isotopes position player tried to save the bullpen an inning but wasn't able to, and seven Isotope pitchers were used to get through the game. Iowa belted seven homers, accounting for 11 of their 20 runs in a 20-9 victory over Albuquerque in the series opener. Albuquerque snapped a three-game winning streak with the loss and fell to 3 games back of the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) in the division race with 8 games left to play.

In the 1st inning with Etherton on the mound, Brad Snyder doubled and scored on Jason Dubois' homer. Bryan LaHair struck out but reached on a wild pitch before Bobby Scales two-run homered as the Cubs led 4-0.

Things did not get any better for the Isotopes in the 2nd inning. Matt Camp led off the inning with a solo homer, Cubs starter Mitch Atkins doubled and Sam Fuld singled. Etherton left the game with an unknown injury and Josh Lindblom took over on the mound. Marquez Smith doubled home Atkins and Fuld and Snyder followed with a two-run homer. Dubois was the next batter and hit his second homer of the game as the Cubs plated six runs to lead 10-0.

In the 3rd inning, the Isotopes got on the scoreboard. A.J. Ellis and Justin Sellers drew walks, Lindblom grounded out as both runners advanced a base, and Trent Oeltjen grounded out to bring Ellis home. Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled home Sellers as Albuquerque trailed 10-2.

The Cubs plated four runs in the 5th inning on RBI singles from Snyder and Scales, a RBI double by Dubois, and a groundout from LaHair.

LaHair solo homered in the 7th inning as Iowa led 15-2.

Albuquerque started a late-game rally in the 8th inning to try to make the score respectable. Sellers singled and advanced to second base on a throwing error on the play. Pinch-hitter Travis Denker tripled home Sellers before scoring on Oeltjen's single. Ivan DeJesus Jr. walked and John Lindsey singled to load the bases and Jamie Hoffmann sacrifice flied out to bring home Oeltjen.

The position player Denker went to the mound in the 9th inning to try to save the Isotopes bullpen an inning. Fuld singled, Smith was hit by a pitch and Snyder ground-rule doubled to bring home Fuld. Pinch-hitter Ty Wright doubled home Smith and Snyder and LaHair followed with a two run homer. Scales was hit by a pitch before Denker was removed from the game after facing six batters and getting none out. Isotopes reliever Juan Perez allowed a single to Robinson Chirinos before getting the next three Cub batters in order to put out Denker's fire.

Albuquerque added four more in the bottom of the 9th inning. Sellers singled with one out, pinch-hitter JD Closser also singled, and Oeltjen sacrifice flied out to bring home Sellers. DeJesus Jr. singled and Russ Mitchell walked to load the bases and Lindsey cleared them with a double. Hoffmann grounded out to end the game.

Etherton's final line included 1 inning pitched with 7 hits, 7 runs and 3 homers allowed.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x5, 1 R, 1 RBI (64), 1 BB, .298 AVG
Scott Van Slyke: 2x5, 2 2B (4), 2 K, .348 AVG
Josh Lindblom: 3.1 IP, 9 H, 6 R, 4 ER, 1 BB, 2 K, 2 HR, 6.70 ERA


'TOPES NOTES:
Russ Mitchell is the PCL Hitter of the Week. During the award week, Mitchell hit .517 (15x29) with 4 homers and 9 RBI and plated 11 runs. Mitchell is the third Isotope PCL Hitter award winner in 2010 (John Lindsey - 2x winner). . . . The Dodgers recalled P Ramon Troncoso from the Isotopes to take the roster spot vacated by Manny Ramirez, who the White Sox acquired via waivers after the Dodgers decided to let him go without a trade needing to be worked out. . . . The seven homers allowed tied an Isotopes franchise record, as did the 42 combined runs for a game that is 9 innings in length. . . . Albuquerque tied season highs in runs allowed (20), combined runs (29), combined homers (7) and pitchers used in a game (7). The Isotopes had a season high in hits allowed (25). . . . John Lindsey had four hits - his eighth game in 2010 of at least four hits. . . . Russ Mitchell hit safely to extend his hitting streak to 9 games. . . . Iowa's Jason Dubois seems to like Isotopes Park. As a visitor with Iowa in 2004, Dubois had a three homer game and tonight, he added a two-homer game. . . . If you think Albuquerque's loss was bad, it was not the largest losing margin game of the day in the PCL. The Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) defeated the Round Rock Express (AAA Astros) 23-5. . . . On Monday night, the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) became the sixth PCL club to be eliminated from playoff contention. 10 more clubs are still competing for a chance at the playoffs. . . . Brandon Dickson of the Memphis Redbirds (AAA Cardinals) is the PCL Pitcher of the Week. Dickson won both of his starts and allowed 4 runs in 15 innings for a 2.40 ERA. Dickson allowed 15 hits, walked 3 and struck out 17. . . . The Isotopes and Cubs will put two games into the official record books on Tuesday. At 4PM, the Cubs and Isotopes will complete a game suspended by rain at Isotopes Park in July. Iowa leads the contest 4-0, batting in the top of the 1st inning and John Ely is on the hook for the loss unless Albuquerque can tie the game at some point to give Ely a no-decision. After that nine-inning game is completed, Albuquerque and Iowa will play the regularly scheduled game, shortened to 7 innings by PCL rules. The pitchers expected to take the field to pick up the suspended game are RHP Charlie Haeger (3-2, 5.40) for the Isotopes and RHP Jeff Samardzija (11-2, 3.23) for the Cubs. The regularly scheduled game probables are RHP Edgar Gonzalez (0-1, 6.00) for Albuquerque and RHP Hung-Wen Chen (2-3, 5.70) for Iowa.

Filed 08/30/2010

August 29, 2010 - Isotopes (68-66)

Isotopes Park

Oklahoma City  100 001 120 --   5  10  0
Albuquerque    136 000 00x --  10  12  1

WP: John Ely (5-3)
LP: Ben Snyder (0-1)

HR: OKC Willy Taveras (2) off Ely (1st inning)
    OKC Matt Brown (10) off Ely (7th inning)

    ALB Russ Mitchell (23) off Snyder (3rd inning)
    ALB Justin Sellers (13) off Snyder (2nd inning)
    ALB Trent Oeltjen (12) off Snyder (1st inning)

TIME: 2:32
ATT: 13,021
John Ely had a good outing, allowing four runs in 7 innings and his teammates gave him 10 runs of support over the first three frames as Albuquerque defeated the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) 10-5 to move to two games back of the Redhawks in the American Conference Southern Division race.

The two clubs exchanged solo homers in the 1st inning. Willy Taveras homered as the second batter of the game for Oklahoma City and Trent Oeltjen leadoff homered for Albuquerque.

Albuquerque really got things going in the 2nd inning. Jamie Hoffmann drew a walk, Michael Restovich had a broken-bat flare that landed just fair down the left field line for a double, and Travis Denker grounded out to bring home Hoffmann. An out later, Justin Sellers launched a two run homer as Albuquerque led 4-1.

The Isotopes' big inning was the third inning. Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled and scored on Russ Mitchell's team-lead tying 23rd homer of the season. John Lindsey was hit by a pitch, Hoffmann singled and Denker doubled to right-center field to drive in Lindsey and Hoffmann. After A.J. Ellis struck out, Sellers doubled to drive in Denker. Oeltjen singled home Sellers to cap the scoring in the inning as Albuquerque sent ten batters to the plate, scored six runs and led 10-1.

Chris Davis doubled and scored on Hernan Iribarren's double in the 6th inning as the Redhawks added another run to the scoreboard.

Matt Brown solo homered in the 7th inning for the Redhawks, and in the 8th inning, Iribarren and Ryan Garko singled home runs to tally Oklahoma City's final runs.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x5, 1 R, 2 K, .297 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
For a series that was a battle of first and second place teams in a division race, none of the five games in the series was closely contested. No game was won by less than five runs. . . . Tonight's game marked the final 2010 regular season meeting between the Isotopes and Redhawks. Albuquerque won four of the five contests in the series and 51,267 attended for a per-game average of 10,253. . . . In 2010, Albuquerque won 10 of the 16 season head-to-head matchups (6-2 at Isotopes Park, 4-4 in Oklahoma City), earning them the tiebreaker advantage over the Redhawks if needed to determine the division winner. All-time, Oklahoma City holds a 66-61 series advantage. . . . Tonight's draw of 13,021 is the 22nd largest regular-season attendance in Isotopes Park history. The just-completed fan appreciation weekend drew two of the top 40 crowds in the history of "The Lab". . . . Albuquerque has plated double-digit runs in three straight games. . . . Trent Oeltjen has both of Albuqueque's leadoff homers in 2010. . . . If tonight is going to be the final night the Isotopes wear their Sunday Dodger-like uniforms, their record while wearing the alternate uniform in 2010 will be 8-2. . . . Two more PCL clubs were eliminated from playoff contention on Sunday evening - Colorado Springs Sky Sox (AAA Rockies) and Reno Aces (AAA Diamondbacks). That makes five clubs so far that will be going home after the last out of the regular season is recorded. . . . Albuquerque is sitting in a good spot as they enter the series with the Iowa Cubs (AAA Cubs) starting on Monday. The Isotopes are within striking distance of the Redhawks at 2 games back with 9 games left to play and all the Isotopes have to do is at least tie the Redhawks at the end of the season as the Isotopes own the tiebreaker. If the Isotopes can make it to the playoffs, they will have home field advantage in the American Conference Championship series and if the Isotopes can advance, they will even hold home field advantage in the 2010 PCL Championship series. Do not expect Iowa to be a pushover as they are in a division race themselves with a half-game lead in the American Conference Northern Division. Probables in Monday's series opener are RHP Seth Etherton (5-6, 4.76) for the Isotopes and RHP Mitch Atkins (6-3, 3.71) for the Cubs.

Filed 08/29/2010

August 28, 2010 - Isotopes (67-66)

Isotopes Park

Oklahoma City  100 200 001 --   4   7  0
Albuquerque    242 011 00x --  10  14  0

WP: Francisco Felix (1-0)
LP: Michael Ballard (5-8)

HR: OKC Chris Davis (14) off Felix (4th inning)
    OKC Hernan Iribarren (8) off Felix (4th inning)

    ALB Russ Mitchell (22) off Madrigal (6th inning)
    ALB Michael Restovich (11) off Scheppers (3rd inning)
    ALB Ivan DeJesus Jr. (7) off Ballard (1st inning)
    ALB John Lindsey (23) off Ballard (1st inning)

TIME: 2:36
ATT: 12,250
Francisco Felix made his 2010 Isotopes debut and pitched a quality start, allowing three runs over 6 innings and the Isotopes offense put up double-digit runs for the second game in a row in a 10-4 victory over the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers). The Isotopes are now three games behind the Redhawks in the chase for the division title.

Esteban German tripled and scored on Willy Taveras' sacrifice flyout in the 1st innnig as the Redhawks led 1-0.

Ivan DeJesus Jr. and John Lindsey launched solo homers in the bottom of the 1st to give Albuquerque a 2-1 lead.

The Isotopes added to their lead in the 2nd inning. Scott Van Slyke singled, A.J. Ellis doubled and Justin Sellers doubled home Van Slyke. Trent Oeltjen singled home Ellis and DeJesus Jr. doubled home Sellers and Oeltjen for a 6-1 lead.

Albuquerque added two more runs in the 3rd inning. Michael Restovich solo homered, Ellis singled, advanced to second base on Sellers' single and scored on Oeltjen's single.

Felix allowed solo homers to Chris Davis and Hernan Iribarren in the 4th inning as Oklahoma City trailed 8-3.

Sellers singled home Restovich in the 5th inning and Russ Mitchell solo homered in the 6th inning as Albuquerque led 10-3.

The Redhawks plated their final run in the 9th inning when Davis doubled and scored on Max Ramirez's single.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x5, 1 R, 1 2B (31), 1 HR (7), 3 RBI (63), .298 AVG
Scott Van Slyke: 1x4, 1 R, .333 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
At 67-66, the Isotopes are back above the .500 mark for the first time since August 9th. . . . The crowd of 12,250 - Isotopes Park's 37th largest regular season crowd in history - pushed Albuquerque's 2010 home attendance mark over the 500,000 mark (511,517). . . . Russ Mitchell's homer extended his hitting streak to 7 games. . . . The five game series wraps up on Sunday evening. Albuquerque can breathe a little bit easier knowing that Saturday's victory wrapped up the tiebreaker for them should they and the Redhawks end up deadlocked at the end of the season. Albuquerque still needs to continue winning as they need to make up three games on the Redhawks with 10 games left to play. Probables in the series finale are RHP John Ely (4-3, 6.20) for the Isotopes and RHP Guillermo Moscoso (7-6, 5.11) for the Redhawks.

Filed 08/28/2010

August 27, 2010 - Isotopes (66-66)

Isotopes Park

Oklahoma City  000 003 000 --   3   8  0
Albuquerque    013 210 32x --  12  18  0

WP: Tim Corcoran (8-8)
LP: Doug Mathis (5-6)

HR: OKC Hernan Iribarren (7) off Corcoran (6th inning)

    ALB Justin Sellers (12) off Mathis (3rd inning)
    ALB John Lindsey (22) off Mathis (3rd inning)

TIME: 2:47
ATT: 10,297
John Lindsey had a four-hit game (three doubles and homer) and drove in four runs as the Isotopes cruised to a 12-3 victory over the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) on Friday evening. Albuquerque is now four games behind the Redhawks in the division race with 11 games left to play.

Lindsey doubled and scored on Scott Van Slyke's single as Albuquerque led 1-0 in the 2nd inning.

The Isotopes powered their way to a 4-0 lead in the 3rd inning. Justin Sellers led off the inning with a homer and two outs later, Russ Mitchell singled and scored on Lindsey's team-leading 22nd homer of the season.

Albuquerque added more runs in the 4th inning. Van Slyke singled and scored on A.J. Ellis' double. Ellis went to third base on Sellers single and scored when Jamie Hoffmann struck out swinging and Ellis plated the run before Sellers was caught stealing second base on the play.

Back-to-back doubles from Mitchell and Lindsey put Albuquerque's 7th run on the scoreboard in the 5th inning.

Oklahoma City got their only runs of the game with one swing of the bat in the 6th inning. Willy Taveras and Chris Davis singled and Hernan Iribarren three-run homered.

Albuquerque scored again in the 7th inning. Mitchell singled and scored on Lindsey's double. JD Closser drew a walk and Michael Restovich doubled home Lindsey. Closser advanced to third base on the play and scored on Van Slyke's groundout.

The Isotopes scored their final two runs in the 8th inning. Mitchell walked, Closser singled and Restovich singled home Mitchell. Van Slyke followed with a double to bring home Closser.

Isotopes starter Tim Corcoran was just an out shy of having a quality start. In 5 2/3 innings, Corcoran allowed 6 hits and 3 runs while walking 2 and fanning 4.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x5, .297 AVG
Scott Van Slyke: 3x5, 1 R, 1 2B (2), 3 RBI (3), .357 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
P Brent Leach is going to rejoin the Isotopes from Class-AA Chattanooga as soon as the Isotopes make a roster move to free up space for Leach. . . . The Isotopes had 7 doubles in the game, one shy of the franchise record. John Lindsey tied a franchise record with 3 doubles in a game, the fourth time this season he tied that record. . . . Russ Mitchell tied a franchise record with four runs scored in the game. . . . Tim Corcoran's winning decision was his team-leading 8th victory of the season. . . . Chris Schlosser, Head Groundskeeper for the Iowa Cubs (AAA Cubs) is the 2010 PCL Sports Turf Manager of the year. This is the same award former Isotopes groundskeeper Jarad Alley won in 2007 for his manicuring of Isotopes Park. . . . The series continues on Saturday evening. The probable for the Isotopes is RHP Francisco Felix (No Record) who pitched in a few games for Albuquerque in 2009. Felix has spent the 2010 season pitching for Saltillo (on loan from the Dodgers) in the Mexican League. Felix made 17 appearances (12 starts) with Saltillo and went 1-3 with a 6.28 ERA. LHP Derek Holland (6-2, 1.87) is the probable for the Redhawks.

Filed 08/27/2010

August 26, 2010 - Isotopes (65-66)

Isotopes Park

Oklahoma City  220 000 310 --  8  15  0
Albuquerque    100 000 000 --  1   6  2

WP: Omar Beltre (3-8)
LP: Edgar Gonzalez (0-1)

TIME: 2:36
ATT: 8,296
Edgar Gonzalez fanned 10 Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) batters and allowed four runs in 6 innings, but that effort was not good enough on Thursday evening as the Isotopes were only able to muster one run of offense in a 8-1 loss to the Redhawks. Oklahoma City extended their division lead over Albuquerque to 5 games.

In the 1st inning, Esteban German led off the game with a double, advanced to third base on Willy Taveras' bunt single and both runners scored on Chris Davis' double.

The Isotopes plated their lone run in their half of the 1st inning. Jamie Hoffmann singled, stole second base, advanced to third base on Ivan DeJesus Jr.'s single and then two outs later scored on Michael Restovich's single.

Max Ramirez had a two-run single in the 2nd inning and Ryan Garko had a two-out, bases loaded double to clear the bases in the 7th inning as the Redhawks led 7-1.

Oklahoma City plated their final run in the 8th inning on an error.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 3x4, 1 2B (30), .300 AVG
Josh Lindblom: 2 IP, 5 H, 4 R, 3 ER, 1 BB, 0 K, 0 HR, 6.55 ERA


'TOPES NOTES:
C A.J. Ellis, who was optioned to Albuqueque from the Dodgers, was added to the Isotopes active roster tonight and C Esteban Lopez was placed back on the disabled list with a right ankle strain. . . . Albuquerque is 11-13 when committing two errors in a game. . . . Ivan DeJesus Jr. had half of the Isotopes' 6 hits in the game. . . . On Thursday evening, the Las Vegas 51s (AAA Blue Jays) became the third PCL club to be eliminated from playoff contention. All four divison races continue to be tight, with the Redhawks/Isotopes race the division with the most games separating first and second place. . . . File this away in the "Gee, I didn't know they had an award for that!" department. Heath Townsend, trainer for the Colorado Springs Sky Sox (AAA Rockies) won the 2010 Professional Baseball Athletic Trainers Society (PBATS) Athletic Trainer of the Year for the Pacific Coast League. The award press release notes Townsend worked with several big league players on rehabilitation assignments, including Troy Tulowitzki, Eric Young Jr., Taylor Buchholz and Huston Street. It must be a good sign that the Isotopes have been relatively healthy enough that Isotopes trainer Greg Harrel did not win the award. . . . The series plays the third of five games on Friday evening. Probables are RHP Tim Corcoran (7-8, 6.78) for the Isotopes and RHP Doug Mathis (5-5, 5.31) for the Redhawks.

Filed 08/26/2010

August 25, 2010 - Isotopes (65-65)

Isotopes Park

Oklahoma City  000 003 000  --  3   4  1
Albuquerque    140 400 02x --  11  14  0

WP: Charlie Haeger (3-2)
LP: Brandon McCarthy (3-1)

HR: ALB Russ Mitchell (20) off McCarthy (2nd inning)
    ALB Russ Mitchell (21) off McCarthy (4th inning)
    ALB Justin Sellers (11) off McCarthy (2nd inning)
    ALB Jamie Hoffmann (7) off McCarthy (2nd inning)
    ALB Ivan DeJesus Jr. (6) off Ballard (8th inning)

TIME: 2:23
ATT: 7,403
In Albuquerque's most important series of the season, the Isotopes got off to a good start. Russ Mitchell homered twice, part of a five homer outburst, as the Isotopes powered their way to a 11-3 victory over the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) on Wednesday evening. Albuquerque moved to four games back of the Redhawks with the victory.

In the 1st inning, MItchell doubled and scored when JD Closser reached on a throwing error.

Albuquerque started showing their home run power in the 2nd inning. Scott Van Slyke doubled and scored one out later on Justin Sellers' homer. Jamie Hoffmann followed with a homer of his own. Another out later, Mitchell hit his first homer of the night as Albuquerque led 5-0.

Albuquerque put up another four-spot on the scoreboard in the 4th inning. Sellers singled and Hoffmann walked with one out and both scored on Ivan DeJesus Jr.'s double. Mitchell followed with a two-run homer to give Albuquerque a 9-0 lead.

The Redhawks avoided the shutout in the 6th inning benefitting from Isotope starter Charlie Haeger's wildness. Taylor Teagarden, Esteban German and Willy Taveras each drew walks to lead off the inning. Chris Davis sacrifice flied out to bring home Teagarden and after Ryan Garko struck out, Max Ramirez singled home German and Taveras.

Hoffmann doubled and scored on DeJesus Jr.'s two-run homer to close out the scoring in the game in the 8th inning.

Haeger went 6 innings, allowing 2 hits, 3 runs, 5 walks and 5 strikeouts.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x5, 2 R, 1 2B (29), 1 HR (6), 4 RBI (60), 1 K, .296 AVG
Scott Van Slyke: 1x4, 1 R, 1 2B (1), .222 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
Albuquerque's five homers tonight was more than the Isotopes had hit in the just-completed four game series with the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) at "The Lab". . . . The series continues on Thursday evening. Probables are RHP Edgar Gonzalez (1-1, 3.91) for the Isotopes and RHP Omar Beltre (2-8, 2.65) for the Redhawks.

Filed 08/25/2010

August 24, 2010 - DH2 - Isotopes (64-65)

Isotopes Park

New Orleans    000 080 0 --  8  11  0
Albuquerque    011 100 0 --  3   7  1

WP: Taylor Tankersley (4-2)
LP: Seth Etherton (5-6)

HR: NRL Brett Carroll (7) off Etherton (5th inning)
    NRL Brett Carroll (8) off Troncoso (5th inning)

TIME: 2:24
ATT: 7,372
For the second outing in a row, Isotopes starter Seth Etherton hit a wall in the 5th inning and the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) used that to their advantage to plate all eight of their runs in an 8-3 victory over the Isotopes to earn a split of the doubleheader. Albuquerque's three game winning streak was snapped with the loss and the Isotopes saw a five game winning streak against the Zephyrs in games played at "The Lab" ended.

In the 2nd inning, Michael Restovich drew a one out walk and scored on JD Closser's double.

Albuquerque added to their lead in the 3rd inning. Seth Etherton singled, advanced to second base on a wild pitch, moved on to third base when Russ Mitchell singled, and scored when John Lindsey sacrifice flied out.

The Isotopes led 3-0 in the 4th inning. Restovich drew a leadoff walk, went to second base on a wild pitch and scored two outs later on Justin Sellers' single.

Former-Isotope Brett Carroll had a big inning in the 5th inning. Carroll solo homered to lead off the frame to break up Etherton's shutout. Neil Wilson and pinch-hitter Brian Barden singled and Scott Cousins walked to load the bases and an out later, Mike Lamb grounded out as Wilson scored. Mark Saccomanno's triple drove home Barden and Cousins and Danny Richar singled home Saccomanno. Isotopes reliever Ramon Troncoso entered the game in relief of Etherton and allowed a single to Bryan Petersen before Carroll belted his second homer of the inning, a three-run shot, as the Zephyrs led 8-3.

Etherton ended up pitching 4 2/3 innings, allowing 6 runs and 8 hits while walking 1 and fanning 5.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x3, 1 BB, 1 K, .295 AVG
Scott Van Slyke: 0x1, 1 K, .200 AVG
Josh Lindblom: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 1 K, 0 HR, 6.39 ERA


'TOPES NOTES:
The Isotopes and Zephyrs concluded their 2010 season series with the nightcap of the doubleheader. Albuquerque took 3 out of the 4 games in the series and 23,972 attended for a per-gate average of 7,991. In 2010, Albuquerque won 10 out of the 16 contests in the season series (6-2 at Isotopes Park, 4-4 at Zephyr Field). All-time, Albuquerque leads the series 70-57 and since the Marlins partnered with the Zephyrs in 2009, Albuquerque has won 22 of the 32 games between the current and former Marlins affiliates. . . . The Isotopes are 1-3 in home doubleheaders in 2010. This season, Albuquerque has played five doubleheaders total and has split three doubleheaders, swept one and has been swept once. . . . Ivan DeJesus Jr. went hitless in 3 at-bats to snap a 7-game hitting streak. . . . Seth Etherton allowed 6 runs in the 5th inning tonight, the same number of runs allowed in the problematic 5th inning in his previous outing on August 19th in Tacoma. . . . Isotopes management should put up bunting around Isotopes Park and the fans should show up because it needs to be a playoff atmosphere for the next five days. The division-leading Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) come to town for a five game series that plays a major role in deciding Albuquerque's playoff fate for the 2010 season. The Redhawks lost on Tuesday and the Isotopes split their doubleheader so the Isotopes gained half a game on the Redhawks, now trailing by 5 games. If the Redhawks sweep the series, Albuquerque would be eliminated from the playoffs. If Albuquerque sweeps the series, there will be a deadlock atop the division. If Albuquerque wins the series, they will find themselves closer to the Redhawks with 9 games left to play and if the Redhawks win the series, Albuquerque's playoff chances become slim because the Isotopes would almost have to win every single one of the 9 remaining games and the Redhawks would have to lose almost every single one of their remaining contests. Probables in the opener are knuckleballer RHP Charlie Haeger (2-2, 5.55) for the Isotopes and RHP Brandon McCarthy (3-0 2.39) for the Redhawks.

Filed 08/24/2010

August 24, 2010 - DH1 - Isotopes (64-64)

Isotopes Park

New Orleans    004 001 0 --  5   9  1
Albuquerque    010 400 1 --  6  11  0

WP: Juan Perez (4-2)
LP: Jorge Sosa (5-3)

HR: ALB Mike Rivera (2) off Mastny (2nd inning)

TIME: 2:26
What perfect timing for the Isotopes. The Isotopes placed OF Xavier Paul on the disabled list with neck inflammation and activated C Esteban Lopez. Lopez pinch-hit singled in the bottom of the 7th inning to drive in the game-winning run as the Isotopes defeated the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) 6-5 in the opener of a doubleheader.

Mike Rivera solo homered as Albuquerque led 1-0 in the 2nd inning.

Isotopes starter John Ely ran into trouble in the 3rd inning. Mike Lamb singled with two outs to drive in Chris Hatcher, Mark Saccomanno two-run doubled to drive in Scott Cousins and Lamb, and Danny Richar singled home Saccomanno as the Zephyrs led 4-1.

In the 4th inning, Albuquerque had a four-run rally of their own. Scott Van Slyke singled and pinch-hitter Michael Restovich singled. An out later, Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled to load the bases and Russ Mitchell cleared them with with a double to tie the game at 4-4. Mitchell scored when John Lindsey reached on a throwing error as Albuquerque led 5-4.

Hatcher singled home Richar in the 6th inning as the Zephyrs tied the game.

In the 7th inning, Mitchell singled, advanced to third base on Lindsey's single, Jamie Hoffmann was intentionally walked to load the bases with no outs, and Lopez singled into right field as Mitchell raced home with the game winning run.

Ely went 4 innings, allowing 4 runs and 6 hits while walking one and fanning 5.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x4, 1 R, .297 AVG
Scott Van Slyke: 1x3, 1 R, 1 K, .250 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The Isotopes have won three straight games and evened their season mark at 64-64, the first time at the .500 mark since August 17th. . . . Russ Mitchell had four hits in the game, his third 4-hit effort of the season. . . . Juan Perez has two of the three victories in the series with the Zephyrs. . . . Drew Locke of the Round Rock Express (AAA Astros) is the PCL Hitter of the Week. Locke hit .500 (11x22) with 2 homers and 7 RBI. . . . Bobby Cramer of the Sacramento River Cats (AAA Athletics) is the PCL Pitcher of the Week. Cramer made two starts and went 1-1 with a 0.64 ERA. In 14 innings, Cramer allowed 9 hits, 2 runs (1 earned), walked 1 and struck out 15.

Filed 08/24/2010

Isotopes Postponed; PDA Renewal

The Isotopes had a busy day on and off the field. On the field, the game with the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) was postponed after almost a two hour delay due to electrical storms and the threat of rain in the vicinity of Isotopes Park. The rain did not start until just before the postponement was announced. The two teams will plays games 3 and 4 of the series as a doubleheader starting at 4:05 PM with each game lasting seven innings. It was the ninth home postponement in franchise history and the second this season, tying the franchise mark for most home postponements in season. Probables in the opener are RHP John Ely (4-3, 5.98) for the Isotopes and RHP Tom Mastny (4-4, 4.41) for the Zephyrs. In the nightcap, probables are RHP Seth Etherton (5-5, 4.44) for Albuquerque and former-Isotope RHP Nic Ungs (1-1, 4.58) for New Orleans. The Isotopes fell a half-game in the standings despite not playing. The Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) defeated the Round Rock Express (AAA Astros) in their contest, extending the Redhawks division lead over Albuquerque to 5.5 games. The Express became the second PCL club to be eliminated from playoff contention with the loss. In the penthouse area of the divisions, all the division races are competitive so it appears all the divisions won't be decided until at least the final 7 contests of the season or maybe even down to the last weekend of play on Labor Day weekend. Off the field, the Isotopes and Dodgers announced a renewal of the Player Development Agreement that was set to expire at the end of the 2010 season. Not including Class-A Inland Empire where a renewal announcement has not been made yet, all other Dodgers' farm teams renewed their PDA deals through 2014 except for the Isotopes, whose pact with the Dodgers is good for two seasons, through 2012.
Filed 08/23/2010

August 22, 2010 - Isotopes (63-64)

Isotopes Park

New Orleans    200 000 200 --  4   7  2
Albuquerque    130 030 00x --  7  12  0

WP: Tim Corcoran (7-8)
LP: Brian Lawrence (10-8)
SV: Scott Dohmann (14)

HR: NRL Mike Lamb (6) off Corcoran (1st inning)
    NRL Chris Hatcher (1) off Corcoran (7th inning)

TIME: 2:39
ATT: 6,558
Tim Corcoran pitched into the 7th inning allowing 4 runs and his teammates gave him plenty of run support as the Isotopes defeated the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) 7-4 on Sunday evening.

Scott Cousins singled, stole second base and had an easy trot home to score on Mike Lamb's two run homer as the Zephyrs led 2-0 after a half-inning of play.

In the Isotopes half of the 1st inning, Russ Mitchell singled with two outs, John Lindsey was hit by a pitch and Michael Restovich reached on an error with Mitchell coming home to get the Isotopes on the scoreboard.

In the 2nd inning, Justin Sellers doubled and scored on Corcoran's chop single up the middle. Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled and Mitchell doubled home Corcoran and DeJesus Jr. as Albuquerque led 4-2.

Mitchell reached on an error in the 5th inning and took second base on a wild pitch. Lindsey drew a walk and Restovich singled to load the bases with no outs. JD Closser two-run singled to drive in Mitchell and Lindsey. Travis Denker flied out with Restovich tagging up to third base and Sellers sacrifice flied out to drive him in as Albuquerque led 7-2.

Bryan Petersen singled and scored on Chris Hatcher's two-run homer in the 7th innig as the Zephyrs plated the final runs of the contest.

Corcoran's official line was 6 1/3 innings pitched, 7 hits, 4 runs, 2 walks, 5 strikeouts and 2 homers allowed.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 3x5, 1 R, .295 AVG
Scott Van Slyke: 0x1, .000 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The Dodgers acquired C Rod Barajas from the New York Mets. No Isotopes were traded to the Mets organization in the cash deal, but C A.J. Ellis was optioned to Albuquerque to free up roster room on the Dodgers for Barajas. The Dodgers also activated P Jeff Weaver from the disabled list and did not have to send someone to Albuquerque as they placed the recently called up P Travis Schlichting on the major league disabled list. OF Trent Oeltjen was placed on the disabled list with left elbow inflammation and OF Scott Van Slyke was promoted from Class-A Inland Empire. Van Slyke, the son of former major-leaguer Andy Van Slyke, is considered the Dodgers' 19th best prospect according to Baseball America. . . . The Isotopes certainly are not getting any help from fellow-division rival Round Rock Express (AAA Astros). The Express are hosting division-leader Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) and the Redhawks have won both of their games in the series so far, just like the Isotopes. Albuquerque remains 5 games back of the Redhawks while the Express are on the brink of being eliminated from playoff contention. . . . Tim Corcoran earned his 7th victory tonight. The 7 victories and his 8 defeats both lead the team. . . . The Isotopes have a press conference scheduled for Monday afternoon. The rumor is that a Player Development Agreement (PDA) renewal with the Dodgers will be announced as the current PDA with the Dodgers expires at the end of the season. Based on the recently inked PDA renewals with other Dodger minor league clubs, the Isotopes/Dodgers renewal may be for four years instead of the usual two years as the Dodgers appear to be wanting to keep the Path to Dodgertown intact for four more seasons. . . . The series continues on Monday evening. With school back in session, school night home contests revert to 6:35 PM start times. Probables are RHP John Ely (4-3, 5.98) for the Isotopes and RHP Tom Mastny (4-4, 4.41) for the Zephyrs.

Filed 08/22/2010

August 21, 2010 - Isotopes (62-64)

Isotopes Park

New Orleans    400 000 000 1 -  5  10  0
Albuquerque    010 011 100 2 --  6  15  0

WP: Juan Perez (3-2)
LP: Scott Strickland (4-3)

HR: NRL Cameron Maybin (4) off Perez (10th inning)

TIME: 3:11
ATT: 10,042
Ivan DeJesus Jr.'s single in the 10th inning drove in the game winning run as Albuquerque began their monster homestand with a 6-5 victory over the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) in the series opener at "The Lab". The important victory kept Albuquerque from losing ground in the division, remaining 5 games back of the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers).

Isotopes starter Edgar Gonzalez made his first appearance for Albuquerque and got off to a rough start. Scott Cousins led off the game with a triple and Bryan Petersen walked. Cameron Maybin singled home Cousins and Brian Barden walked to load the bases. Danny Richar grounded into a double play with Petersen scoring on the play. Former-Isotope Brett Carroll singled home Maybin and Gookie Dawkins tripled to bring home Carroll as the Zephyrs led 4-0 before Albuquerque even came to bat.

The Isotopes started chipping away at the defecit in the 2nd inning. John Lindsey singled, advanced to second base on a passed ball and scored on Travis Denker's first run batted in as an Isotope.

Jamie Hoffmann singled, advanced to third base on DeJesus Jr.'s single and scored on Lindsey's sacrifice flyout as the Isotopes trailed 4-2.

Albuquerque added another run in the 6th inning when JD Closser doubled, Denker singled, and Justin Sellers sacrifice flied out to drive in Closser.

The Isotopes completed their comeback in the 7th inning to tie the game at 4-4. DeJesus Jr. singled, took second base on a wild pitch and scored on Lindsey's single.

Maybin solo homered with two outs in the 10th inning as New Orleans appeared on their way to the victory, but Albuquerque had different plans in the bottom half of the inning against Zephyrs closer (and former-Isotope) Scott Strickland. Closser and Denker singled ahead of pinch-hitter Josh Lindblom's single to drive in Closser to tie the game. Mike Rivera laid down a sacrifice bunt and Hoffmann was intentionally walked to load the bases. DeJesus Jr then singled home Denker with the game winning run.

Gonzalez made it through 6 innings and allowed 4 runs and 6 hits.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 4x6, 1 R, 1 RBI (56), .292 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The Dodgers activated OF Manny Ramirez from the disabled list and the move had no immediate impact on the Isotopes. The Dodgers designated IF Juan Castro for assignment and it is possible that Castro will eventually rejoin the Isotopes if he clears waivers and accepts an assignment to Albuquerque. It will be known in a few days as the process plays out what Castro's fate will be. . . . The Isotopes are 10-6 in extra inning contests in 2010. The 16 total overtime contests and 10 extra inning victories in a season continue to add to the franchise record books with each occurrance. . . . Albuquerque has 16 last at-bat wins in 2010 and Ivan DeJesus Jr. had a role in three of those. . . . DeJesus Jr. had a four-hit game for the fourth time this season. . . . The series continues on Sunday evening. Probables are RHP Tim Corcoran (6-8, 6.86) for the Isotopes and RHP Brian Lawrence (10-7, 4.73) for the Zephyrs.

Filed 08/21/2010

August 20, 2010 - Isotopes (61-64)

Cheney Stadium

Albuquerque    000 100 003 --  4   6  1
Tacoma         211 000 04x --  8  14  0

WP: Mauricio Robles (1-0)
LP: Charlie Haeger (2-2)

TIME: 3:12
ATT: 7,495
Isotopes reliever Scott Dohmann entered a 4-1 contest and gave up four runs in the 8th inning. Normally, one would think of those as junk-time runs, but on Friday evening those runs actually mattered. Albuquerque rallied for three runs in the 9th inning, making those four Dohmann-allowed runs the winning margin as the Tacoma Rainers (AAA Mariners) handed Albuquerque another loss, 8-4. Albuquerque has dropped three straight games and is a season-worst three games below the .500 mark.

In the 1st inning, Dustin Ackley singled, Matt Mangini doubled and Justin Smoak sacrificed flied out to drive in Ackley. David Winfree singled home Mangini as the Rainiers led 2-0.

Tug Hulett singled home a run in the 2nd inning and Rob Johnson drew a bases-loaded walk in the 3rd inning to bring home a run to extend Tacoma's led to 4-0.

With two outs in the 4th inning, Jamie Hoffmann, Michael Restovich and Travis Denker walked to load the bags and JD Closser drew a fourth consecutive walk to bring home Hoffmann as Albuquerque got on the scoreboard.

In the 8th inning with the bases loaded, Winfree cleared the bases with a double and scored on Mike Carp's single as Tacoma led 8-1.

Albuquerque plated the final runs of the game in the 9th inning. Closser doubled and advanced to third base on a wild pitch. Mike Rivera walked and Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled home Closser. Russ Mitchell doubled home Rivera and John Lindsey grounded to drive in DeJesus Jr.

Isotopes starter Charlie Haeger went the first three innings, allowing 5 hits, 4 runs (3 earned), walked 4 and struck out 2.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x5, 1 R, 1 RBI (55), 1 K, .287 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The Dodgers recalled P Travis Schlichting from the Isotopes on Friday to take the roster spot of P Vincente Padilla who was placed on the big league disabled list. . . . With the Isotopes loss and the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) victory on Friday, the Isotopes are five games back in the PCL American Conference Southern Division with 18 games left to play. . . . This was the first series played at Cheney Field in Tacoma that did not result in a series sweep. Tacoma swept the Isotopes in 2004 and 2008; Albuquerque swept the Rainiers in 2006. Tacoma took three games in the only four game series of the 2010 regular season between the two clubs and 22,409 attended for a per-game average of 5,602. All-time, Albuquerque leads the series 17-15 but is 5-11 in games played at Cheney Stadium. . . . Albuquerque finished 14-17 in 2010 against Pacific Conference foes (with one game lost to the schedule due to a rainout in Colorado Springs). All-time against the Pacific Conference, Albuquerque is 122-130. . . . Justin Sellers went hitless in four at-bats to snap a 10-game hitting streak. Russ Mitchell hit safely to extend his hitting streak to 5 games, the current Isotope longest hitting streak. . . . The Portland Beavers of the PCL Pacific Conference Northern Division became the first PCL club to be eliminated from playoff contention. . . . Albuquerque returns home for their final homestand, a very crucial one for their playoff chances. The homestand consists of 13 scheduled games plus a game that was suspended in late July that needs to be completed and put in the record books, making it a 14 game-in-13 day monster homestand. The Isotopes enter the homestand with a 30-28 home record so having a much higher winning percentage at home is needed to try to make up the five game division defecit and become repeat division champions. The first four games of the homestand are against the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins). The Zephyrs are a half-game back of the Isotopes for second place and 5.5 games back of the division leader Redhawks. This four-game series could be considered the battle for second place because both teams are too far back to take the division lead if there is a series sweep and if the Redhawks get swept.. Probables in the opener are a pitcher to be named for Albuquerque, while New Orleans is expected to counter with RHP Adalberto Mendez (5-3, 3.61).

Filed 08/20/2010

August 19, 2010 - Isotopes (61-63)

Cheney Stadium

Albuquerque    000 100 130 --   5  10  1
Tacoma         100 061 30x --  11  16  0

WP: Blake Beavan (2-1)
LP: Seth Etherton (5-5)

HR: ALB John Lindsey (21) off Shell (8th inning)

    TAC Greg Halman (29) off Etherton (5th inning)
    TAC Tug Hulett (1) off Link (7th inning)
    TAC Matt Mangini (14) off Etherton (5th inning)
    TAC David Winfree (9) off Etherton (5th inning)

TIME: 2:49
ATT: 6,006
The Tacoma Rainiers (AAA Mariners) plated six runs in the 5th inning, aided by three homers, to turn a 1-1 game into a 7-1 lead and eventually defeated the Isotopes 11-5 on Thursday evening. Albuquerque, despite the loss, remains four games back of the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) as the Redhawks also lost on Thursday.

Dustin Ackley doubled and scored on Justin Smoak's single in the 1st inning as Tacoma quickly led 1-0.

In the 4th inning, Russ Mitchell singled, advanced to second base on John Lindsey's groundout and scored on Jamie Hoffmann's single to tie the game at 1-1.

The Rainiers powered their way to to a comfortable lead in the 5th inning. Greg Halman got the inning started with a solo homer. Tug Hulett doubled, advanced to third base on a wild pitch, and scored on Ackley's single. Matt Mangini followed with a two run homer. Smoak doubled and scored on David Winfree's homer as the Rainiers led 7-1.

The Ackley/Smoak combo struck again in the 6th inning when Ackley singled and scored on Smoak's double to give Tacoma a 8-1 lead.

Michael Restovich reached on a fielder's choice, advanced to second base when Travis Denker was hit by a pitch, and scored on JD Closser's double as the Isotopes plated their second run of the game in the 7th inning.

Rob Johnson doubled, Halman reached on an error, and Hulett launched a three-run homer as the Rainiers extended their lead to 11-2 after 7 innings of play.

The Isotopes matched that three-run homer in the 8th inning for the final runs of the game. Ivan DeJesus Jr. and Mitchell singled and Lindsey belted his team-leading 21st homer.

Isotopes starter Seth Etherton allowed three of the four Tacoma homers and gave up 10 hits and 7 runs in 4 innings.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x5, 1R, 1 K, .288 AVG
Josh Lindblom: 2 IP, 3 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 1 BB, 1 K, 0 HR, 6.46 ERA


'TOPES NOTES:
IF Travis Denker was promoted from Class-AA Chattanooga on Thursday, while IF Pedro Guerrero was transferred to rookie-level Ogden. The Dodgers placed P Vicente Padilla on the disabled list but have not made an official roster move yet to fill Padilla's spot. It is anticipated P Travis Schlichting will be headed to the Dodgers. . . . Albuquerque has lost their last two games and is a season-tying worst 2 games below the .500 mark. . . . The 3 homers allowed in the 5th inning was the most allowed in an inning this season by Isotopes pitching and the 4 homers tied a season-worst for most staff homers allowed in a game in 2010. Seth Etherton tied a staff season-worst in homers given up in a game (3). . . . The series, and roadtrip, concludes Friday evening. Albuquerque looks to avoid losing the series and the game marks the final game against a Pacific Conference foe for the 2010 regular season. Probables are knuckeballer RHP Charlie Haeger (2-1, 5.23) for the Isotopes and LHP Mauricio Robles (0-0, 9.00) for the Rainiers.

Filed 08/19/2010

August 18, 2010 - Isotopes (61-62)

Cheney Stadium

Albuquerque    001 001 010 --  3  5  0
Tacoma         210 001 00x --  4  5  2

WP: Ryan Rowland-Smith (2-1)
LP: John Ely (4-3)
SV: Dan Cortes (1)

HR: TAC Greg Halman (28) off Ely (2nd inning)
    TAC Mike Carp (21) off Ely (6th inning)

TIME: 2:23
ATT: 5,015
Isotopes starter John Ely did not have that bad of outing, allowing 4 runs in 7 innings, but it was enough runs for the Tacoma Rainiers (AAA Mariners) to edge the Isotopes 4-3 on Wednesday evening.

Tacoma got off to a good start against Ely. In the 1st inning, Dustin Ackley led off the game with a double and Matt Mangini walked. Justin Smoak singled to drive in Ackley while Mangini ended up on second base. Mike Carp grounded out to advance Mangini to third base and Eliezer Alfonzo sacrifice flied out to bring Mangini home.

Greg Halman solo homered in the 2nd inning as the Rainiers led 3-0.

Albuquerque got on the scoreboard in the 3rd inning. Justin Sellers doubled, took third base on Trent Oeltjen's groundout and scored when Ivan DeJesus Jr. reached on a fielding error.

In the 6th inning, DeJesus Jr. singled, advanced to second base when Xavier Paul walked, scampered into third base when John Lindsey grounded into a double play, and scored on Russ Mitchell's single as the Isotopes trailed by a run at 3-2.

Carp solo homered in the home half of the 6th inning as Tacoma extended their lead back to two runs at 4-2.

Albuquerque scored their final run in the 8th inning. Oeltjen was hit by a pitch, DeJesus Jr. reached on a fielding error with Oeltjen going to third base, and Paul grounded out with Oeltjen scoring.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x4, 1 R, 1 RBI (54), .289 AVG
Xavier Paul: 1x3, 1 2B (20), 1 RBI (38), 1 BB, .325 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The defeat was harmful to the Isotopes' playoff chances. The Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) won their game, so the Redhawks increased their lead in the division over the Isotopes to 4 games with Albuquerque having only 20 games left to play. If Albuquerque can keep the defecit in the division to under 5 games, they have an opportunity to make up some ground on the Redhawks when the two clubs meet for a five game series starting August 25th at Isotopes Park. . . . The Isotopes had five hits in the game, and Justin Sellers had one of those to extend his hitting streak to 10 games. . . . The third game of the series is Thursday evening. Probables are RHP Seth Etherton (5-4, 3.95) for the Isotopes and RHP Blake Beavan (1-1, 6.00) for the Rainiers.

Filed 08/18/2010

August 17, 2010 - Isotopes (61-61)

Cheney Stadium

Albuquerque    102 040 010 -  8  11  0
Tacoma         001 200 001 -- 4   6  4

WP: Tim Corcoran (6-8)
LP: Ryan Feierabend (3-6)

HR: ALB Michael Restovich (10) off Speigner (5th inning)

    TAC Brad Nelson (13) off Corcoran (4th inning)

TIME: 3:06
ATT: 3,893
Michael Restovich's homer highlighted a four-run 5th inning as Albuquerque broke a deadlocked game and Isotopes starter Tim Corcoran ended a long quality start drought as the Isotopes defeated the Tacoma Rainiers (AAA Mariners) 8-4 in the opener of a four-game series in Tacoma on Tuesday evening. Albuquerque has won two straight.

In the 1st inning, Trent Oeltjen manufactured Albuquerque's first run. Oeltjen reached on an error to start off the game, stole second base, advanced to third base on Ivan DeJesus Jr.'s single and scored on John Lindsey's single.

In the 3rd inning, DeJesus Jr. doubled and scored two outs later on Russ Mitchell's double. Jamie Hoffmann drew a walk before Restovich doubled home Mitchell for a 3-0 lead.

Matt Mangini grounded out to bring home a run in the 3rd inning and Rob Johnson doubled and scored on Brad Nelson's two-run homer in the 4th inning as the Rainiers tied the game at 3-3.

In Albuquerque's big 5th inning, Lindsey doubled, Mitchell singled and both runners advanced into scoring position on an error during the play. Hoffmann singled them both home before scoring on Restovich's two-run homer as Albuquerque led 7-3.

In the 8th inning, Justin Sellers singled and scored when DeJesus Jr. reached on a two-base fielding error to extend Albuquerque's lead to 8-3.

With the bases loaded in the 9th inning, Dustin Ackley reached on a fielder's choice as Tacoma's final run scored on the play.

Corcoran allowed 3 runs and 5 hits in 6 innings while walking none and fanning 4.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x5, 1 R, 1 2B (28), .287 AVG
Xavier Paul: 0x5, 2 K, .324 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) also won their contest on Tuesday evening, so the Isotopes remain 3 games back of the Redhawks in the PCL American Conference Southern Division. The Isotopes have 21 games left to try to make a run at repeating the division title. . . . Albuquerque's record is 61-61, the first time returning to the .500 mark since August 10th. . . . The Isotopes snapped a four-game losing streak at Cheney Stadium with tonight's victory. . . . Justin Sellers failed to homer for the third game in a row, but he did extend his hitting streak to 9 games with a single. . . . Prior to tonight's start, Tim Corcoran's last quality start was seven outings ago on June 4th when he allowed a run in 8 innings in Nashville. Corcoran earned his sixth victory, tying him with former-Isotope James McDonald for the 2010 season team lead in wins. . . . It is MLB Player Development Agreement (PDA) time of the year in professional baseball. The Tacoma Rainiers and Seattle Mariners announced today that the PDA between the two clubs has been renewed to 2014. Triple-A level baseball has 13 PDA expirations at the end of this season and there are 10 in the PCL alone so it could be very interesting in the PCL if major league clubs decide to partner with a different Triple-A club similar to the mass musical chairs that occurred in the International League in 2008. The Isotopes PDA with the Dodgers expires at the end of this season and it seems reasonable that flying in Tommy Lasorda and making the renewal announcement with the deal probably good through the 2014 season will be forthcoming when Albuquerque returns home for their monster 14-games-in-13-days last homestand of the season. The Dodgers recently renewed PDA's through 2014 with rookie-Ogden, AA-Chattanooga, and A-Great Lakes and the only Dodger affiliates with an expiring PDA at the end of this season are A-Inland Empire and AAA-Albuquerque. . . . The series continues Wednesday evening with a pair of pitchers who have spent at least 14 games each in the major leagues this season. The Isotopes are expected to send RHP John Ely (4-2, 6.12) to the mound, while Tacoma is expected to counter with LHP Ryan Rowland-Smith (1-1, 5.06). Rowland-Smith is with the Rainiers on a rehabilitation assignment outing and will be making his third rehab start.

Filed 08/17/2010

August 16, 2010 - Isotopes (60-61)

PGE Park

Albuquerque    030 001 100 --  5  7  0
Portland       202 000 000 --  4  5  1

WP: Jon Link (3-1)
LP: Josh Geer (9-10)
SV: Scott Dohmann (13)

HR: ALB Justin Sellers (10) off Geer (2nd inning)

    PORT Craig Stansberry (6) off Haeger (1st inning)

TIME: 2:56
ATT: 3,815
Ivan DeJesus Jr.'s sacrifice fly in the 7th inning brought home the eventual game-winning run as the Isotopes rallied to defeat the Portland Beavers (AAA Padres) 5-4 on Monday afternoon in the series finale. The Isotopes cut their division defecit from four games to three games back with 22 games left to play because of their victory and the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) loss.

Luis Durango drew a leadoff walk in the 1st inning and scored on Craig Stansberry's homer as the Beavers quickly led 2-0.

Albuquerque took a 3-2 lead in the 2nd inning. John Lindsey doubled, Russ Mitchell singled and JD Closser walked to load the bases. Mike Rivera grounded into a double play with Lindsey scoring and Justin Sellers followed with a two-run homer.

Former Isotope Nick Green singled home two runs in the 3rd inning as the Beavers reclaimed the lead at 4-3.

Xavier Paul doubled, advanced to third base on Lindsey's groundout and scored on Mitchell's sacrifice flyout in the 6th inning as Albuquerque tied the game at 4-4.

In the 7th inning, Sellers singled, took second base on pinch-hitter Michael Restovich's single, advanced to third base whne Trent Oeltjen reached on an error, and scored on DeJesus Jr.'s sacrifice flyout for the go-ahead run.

Isotopes starter Charlie Haeger went 2 innings and gave up a hit, two runs, walked 5 and struck out one.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x3, 1 RBI (53), .286 AVG
Xavier Paul: 1x4, 1 R, 1 2B (19), .332 AVG
Josh Lindblom: 2 IP, 2 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 1 BB, 2 K, 0 HR, HBP, 6.51 ERA


'TOPES NOTES:
P Charlie Haeger was activated from the disabled list to make the start today and P Claudio Vargas was waived. Vargas made 10 starts for the Isotopes and went 2-6 with a 5.89 ERA. . . . The Isotopes and Beavers finished their only four game series of the season and each team won two games. 19,324 attended the series at PGE Park for a per-game average of 4,831. With the Beavers relocating from Portland for the 2011 season, the Isotopes' all-time record at PGE Park is finalized at 6-10. Against the Beavers all-time, Portland holds a 18-14 series advantage. . . . Justin Sellers extended his hitting streak to 8 games and has homered in back-to-back contests. . . . Nick Gourneault of the Salt Lake Bees (AAA Angels) is the PCL Hitter of the Week. Gourneault hit .435 (10x23) with 3 homers and 10 RBI. . . . Anthony Lerew of the Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) is the PCL Pitcher of the Week. Lerew won both of his starts and compiled a 0.56 ERA (1 ER in 16 IP). Lerew allowed 14 hits, walked 3 and struck out 13. . . . The Isotopes are going by bus from Portland to Tacoma and will open a four-game series against the Tacoma Rainiers (AAA Mariners) at historic Cheney Stadium on Tuesday evening. Probables in the opener are RHP Tim Corcoran (5-8, 7.04) for the Isotopes and LHP Ryan Feierabend (3-5, 5.23) for the Rainiers.

Filed 08/16/2010

August 15, 2010 - Isotopes (59-61)

PGE Park

Albuquerque    000 010 310 --  5  7  0
Portland       102 003 00x --  6  7  1

WP: Cory Luebke (4-0)
LP: Claudio Vargas (2-6)
SV: Adam Russell (9)

HR: ALB John Lindsey (20) off Perdomo (8th inning)
    ALB Justin Sellers (9) off Luebke (5th inning)

    PORT Mike Baxter (16) off Vargas (1st inning)
    PORT Josh Barfield (4) off Vargas (6th inning)

TIME: 2:57
ATT: 5,107
Down 6-1 heading into the 7th inning, Albuquerque rallied for four late-game runs but came up short of tying the game in a 6-5 defeat to the Portland Beavers (AAA Padres). Despite the loss, Albuquerque lost no ground in the division race, remaining in second place 4 games back of the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers).

Mike Baxter solo homered for the Beavers in the 1st inning and in the 3rd inning, Cedric Hunter singled, Sean Kazmar walked and Baxter doubled them both home as Portland led 3-0.

Albuquerque got on the scoreboard in the 5th inning when Justin Sellers solo homered.

In the 6th inning, Baxter walked and stole second base, Aaron Cunningham walked and Josh Barfield three-run homered as the Beavers led 6-1.

Albuquerque's late-game rally started in the 7th inning. Michael Restovich singled, Sellers walked, and both scored on Trent Oeltjen's double. Ivan DeJesus Jr. doubled home Oeltjen as the Isotopes trailed 6-4.

John Lindsey hit his team-leading 20th homer in the 8th inning for the final run of the contest.

Isotopes starter Claudio Vargas allowed 5 hits and 6 runs in 5 1/3 innings.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x5, 1 2B (27), 1 RBI (52), 3 K, .288 AVG
Xavier Paul: 0x1, .333 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The Isotopes fell to 18-19 in one-run contests. . . . Justin Sellers' homer extended his hitting streak to 7 games. . . . The series concludes Monday afternoon. Probables are knuckleballer RHP Charlie Haeger (2-1, 4.99) for the Isotopes and RHP Josh Geer (9-9, 5.65) for the Beavers.

Filed 08/15/2010

August 14, 2010 - Isotopes (59-60)

PGE Park

Albuquerque    220 000 001 --  5  10  0
Portland       000 001 000 --  1   7  2

WP: Seth Etherton (5-4)
LP: Cesar Carrillo (4-12)

TIME: 2:49
ATT: 5,183
Isotopes starter Seth Etherton was a streak stopper in Portland, Oregon on Saturday evening. Etherton had a no-hitter through 4 1/3 innings, had a shutout into the 6th inning, and eventually pitched seven innings, allowing a run and 6 hits while fanning 8 as the Isotopes snapped a season-high four-game losing streak with a 5-1 victory over the Portland Beavers (AAA Padres).

In the 1st inning, Trent Oeltjen doubled, Ivan DeJesus Jr. walked and each executed a double-steal. Jamie Hoffmann doubled them both home as the Isotopes led 2-0.

The Isotopes put two more runs on the scoreboard in the 2nd inning. JD Closser doubled, Justin Sellers singled, and Etherton laid down a sacrifice bunt to advance both runners a base. DeJesus Jr. singled to plate Closser and Sellers.

Etherton lost his shutout in the 6th inning. Pinch-hitter Cedric Hunter singled, advanced to second base on Luis Durango's single and scored on Mike Baxter's single.

The Isotopes plated their final run in the 9th inning. Oeltjen singled, stole second base and went to third base on a throwing error on the play, and scored on DeJesus Jr.'s ground-rule double.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x4, 1 R, 1 2B (26), 3 RBI (51), 1 BB, SB (5), .289 AVG
Xavier Paul: 0x5, 1 K, .335 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
C Esteban Lopez was placed on the disabled list with a sprained right ankle and IF Pedro Guerrero (not the former Albuquerque Duke, Los Angeles Dodger, St. Louis Cardinal) was transferred from Class-A Ogden to Albuquerque. . . . Albuquerque did not make up any ground in the division race -- still 4 games back of the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) -- but the Isotopes did move back into second place in the division as the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) were swept in a doubleheader to fall to third place in the division, 5 games back of the Redhawks. . . . Isotopes pitching did not allow a homer in the game, cementing into the history books the record for most consecutive games allowing a homer (14 games). . . . P Charlie Haeger is nearing a return to the Isotopes. Haeger was sent to the rookie-level Arizona League Dodgers on a rehabilitation assignment. Haeger started August 11th and in two innings, did not allow a hit, run, or walk and fanned 4 Arizona League Angels batters. . . . The series continues with a Sunday afternoon contest. Probables are RHP Claudio Vargas (2-5, 5.36) for the Isotopes and LHP Cory Luebke (3-0, 4.30) for the Beavers.

Filed 08/15/2010

August 13, 2010 - Isotopes (58-60)

PGE Park

Albuquerque    210 010 001 0  --  5  10  0
Portland       000 200 012 1  --  6  11  0

WP: Adam Russell (4-9)
LP: Geoff Geary (4-6)

HR: ALB John Lindsey (19) off Liz (1st inning)

    PORT Mike Baxter (15) off Lindblom (9th inning)

TIME: 3:36
ATT: 5,219
The Isotopes went from ecstasy to agony in about 30 minutes. Portland Beavers (AAA Padres) hitter Mike Baxter two-run homered in the bottom of the 9th inning to tie the game and Luis Durango had a game-winning single in the 10th inning as the Beavers defeated the Isotopes 6-5 in the series opener in Portland on Friday evening. Albuquerque has dropped four straight.

Albuquerque got off to a great start early. Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled and scored on John Lindsey's team-lead tying 19th homer in the 1st inning.

In the 2nd inning, JD Closser singled, Mike Rivera doubled, and DeJesus Jr. singled home Closser as Albuquerque led 3-0.

Portland got on the scoreboard in the 4th inning when former-Isotope Nick Green singled home two runs.

In the 5th inning, DeJesus Jr. walked, Xavier Paul ground-rule doubled and Lindsey sacrifice flied out to bring home DeJesus Jr. as the Isotopes led 4-2.

Wily Mo Pena walked and later scored on a wild pitch as the Beavers closed to a run down at 4-3 in the 8th inning.

In the 9th inning, Trent Oeltjen and Justin Sellers drew walks. DeJesus Jr. sacrifice bunted them over a base and Paul was intentionally walked to load the bases. Pinch-hitter Michael Restovich sacrifice flied out to bring home Oeltjen as Albuquerque extended their lead to 5-3.

In the bottom of the 9th inning, Durango singled and scored an out later on Baxter's homer to tie the game at 5-5.

In the 10th inning, Albuquerque tried to rally to take the lead. With two outs, Rivera doubled, Oeltjen was intentionally walked and both runners advanced a base on a wild pitch. Sellers drew a walk to load the bases and DeJesus Jr. grounded into a fielder's choice to end the rally.

In the bottom of the 10th inning, pinch-hitter Kyle Phillips singled, Chris Stewart walked and two outs later, Durango singled to drive in Phillips to give the Beavers the win.

Isotopes starter John Ely seemed to get back on track in tonight's outing, tossing a quality start for the first time in his last four outings (counting the game that he started that isn't official yet because it has been suspended). Ely allowed 2 runs and 4 hits in 6 innings while walking 4 and fanning 3.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x4, 2 R, 1 RBI (48), 1 BB, 1 K, .287 AVG
Xavier Paul: 1x4, 1 2B (18), 1 BB, .343 AVG
Josh Lindblom: (BS, 4) 1 IP, 2 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 0 BB, 1 K, 1 HR, 6.45 ERA


'TOPES NOTES:
P Alberto Bastardo was sent to Class-AA Chattanooga on Friday to make roster room for P Ramon Troncoso, who was optioned from the Dodgers recently. . . . Albuquerque dropped to third place in the division with the defeat. The Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) won their contest, dropping Albuquerque to four games back. The Isotopes were tied for second place with the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) coming into the contest. The Zephyrs only lost a half-game in the standings because their game was postponed due to rain and unplayable grounds in Metarle, Louisiana. . . . The Isotopes are 2 games below the .500 mark, the most below the breakeven mark this season, and tied a season worst mark with the four game losing streak. . . . Albuquerque pitching set a franchise record by allowing a homer in the 14th straight contest, breaking the record first set in June/July 2009. . . . The Isotopes extra innings record in 2010 is 9-6. . . . The series continues Saturday evening. Probables are RHP Seth Etherton (4-4, 4.17) for the Isotopes and RHP Cesar Carrillo (4-11, 4.92) for the Beavers.

Filed 08/13/2010

August 11, 2010 - Isotopes (58-59)

Isotopes Park

Fresno         010 230 010 --  7  15  1
Albuquerque    003 001 110 --  6  11  0

WP: Henry Sosa (7-5)
LP: Tim Corcoran (5-8)
SV: Steve Edlefsen (6)

HR: FRE Joe Borchard (14) off Corcoran (5th inning)

    ALB Justin Sellers (8) off Sosa (6th inning)

TIME: 3:29
ATT: 9,119
In the series finale, the Isotopes stranded the game tying run at third base when the last out was recorded in a 7-6 loss to the Fresno Grizzlies (AAA Giants). Albuquerque has dropped three straight contests.

In the 2nd inning, Fresno's Jesus Guzman doubled and scored on Ryan Rohlinger's single.

Albuquerque took the lead in the 3rd inning. Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled, Xavier Paul doubled, and John Lindsey doubled them home. Lindsey took third base on Russ Mitchell's single and scored on Justin Sellers' sacrifice flyout.

Albuquerque couldn't hold the two run lead as the Grizzlies tied the game in the 4th inning. With the bases loaded and two outs, Fresno starter Henry Sosa singled home two runs.

Fresno rallied again in the 5th inning to take a 6-3 lead when a run scored on a groundout, former-Isotope Joe Borchard solo homered, and Steve Holm doubled home a run.

Sellers solo homered in the 6th inning and in the 7th inning, DeJesus Jr. reached on a two base throwing error and scored on Paul's single as the Isotopes cut the defecit to a run at 6-5.

Brett Pill singled home Brock Bond in the 8th inning as the Grizzlies led by two runs.

In the bottom of the 8th inning, Trent Oeltjen doubled, tagged up to third base on DeJesus Jr.'s flyout and scored on Paul's single as the Isotopes trailed 7-6.

In Albuquerque's bottom of the 9th inning, Mitchell singled and Jamie Hoffmann laid down a sacrifice bunt to move Mitchell to second base. JD Closser grounded out as Mitchell went to third base and Sellers struck out swinging to end the game and strand Mitchell at third base.

Isotopes starter Tim Corcoran lost his team-leading 8th contest. In 4 2/3 innings, Corcoran allowed 6 runs and 8 hits, walked 1 and struck out 4.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x5, 2 R, 1 K, .285 AVG
Xavier Paul: 3x4, 1 R, 1 2B (17), 2 RBI (37), 1 BB, .345 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The Dodgers purchased the contract of IF Juan Castro when they put Rafael Furcal on the disabled list. C Esteban Lopez was activated from the disabled list. . . . The American Conference Southern Division race added a new player after play concluded on Wednesday. While the Isotopes remain 3 games back of division leader Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) who also lost, the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) won their contest and moved from third place into a tie for second place with the Isotopes, making it three out of the four teams in the division that are within 3 games of each other. . . . The Grizzlies and Isotopes concluded their only series of the season and Fresno took three out of the four games. 29,086 attended the series for a per-game average of 7,272. All-time, Fresno holds a 18-14 series advantage with both teams having won 8 games at Isotopes Park. . . . Albuquerque is one game below the .500 mark for the first time since June 27th. That one game ties a season mark for most games below the break-even record. . . . The Isotopes had a very disappointing 3-5 homestand. . . . Isotopes pitching tied a franchise record tonight when they allowed a homer for the 13th consecutive contest. . . . Albuquerque is 18-17 in one run contests in 2010. . . . Justin Sellers has homered in back to back games. . . . After the Isotopes and the rest of the PCL enjoy Thursday off, the Isotopes open up a roadtrip that concludes games against Pacific Conference foes for 2010. The first four games are against the Portland Beavers (AAA Padres), the same franchise that formerly was the Albuquerque Dukes until they relocated to Portland after the 2000 season. This could be Albuquerque's final trip to Portland as the Portland fans are on the cusp of losing their team to relocation. PGE Park is going to be remodeled to a soccer and football-only stadium to support the new MLS Portland Timbers franchise and no agreement could be worked out in the Portland area to build a baseball facility for the Beavers. Probables in the opener Friday evening are RHP John Ely (4-2, 6.63) for the Isotopes and RHP Radhames Liz (7-7, 4.79) for the Beavers.

Filed 08/11/2010

August 10, 2010 - Isotopes (58-58)

Isotopes Park

Fresno         273 000 300 --  15  20  0
Albuquerque    010 000 200 --   3  10  2

WP: Eric Hacker (14-5)
LP: Alberto Bastardo (5-4)

HR: FRE Tyler Graham (2) off Lindblom (3rd inning)
    FRE Brett Pill (16) off Bastardo (2nd inning)

    ALB Justin Sellers (7) off Hacker (7th inning)

TIME: 3:20
ATT: 5,287
Unlike last night when the Fresno Grizzlies (AAA Giants) erupted late to turn a pitchers duel into a rout, the Grizzlies were not as dramatic on Tuesday evening, plating 12 runs over the first three frames to crush the Isotopes for a second straight night, 15-3. Albuquerque, despite having lost two straight games and falling back to the .500 mark at 58-58, remained 3 games back of the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) in the American Conference Southern Division race.

In the 1st inning, Brock Bond and Tyler Graham back-to-back doubled to bring home a run. Graham stole second base and later scored on Jesus Guzman's single as the Grizzlies led 2-0.

Fresno erupted for a seven run 2nd inning to extend their lead to 9-0. Ben Copeland and Jackson Williams singled and both executed a double steal, with Copeland stealing home. Williams stole second base on the play and advanced to third base on a throwing error. Bond walked and Graham singled home Williams. Brett Pill followed with a three run homer. Guzman doubled and scored when former Isotope Joe Borchard reached on an error. Borchard advanced to second base on a wild pitch and scored on Copeland's single.

The Isotopes got on the scoreboard in their half of the 2nd inning. Russ Mitchell doubled, took third base on Michael Restovich's single and scored when Mike Rivera grounded into a double play.

Graham's two run homer was the highlight of a three-run Fresno 3rd inning as the Grizzlies led 12-1.

Fresno extended the lead to 15-1 in the 7th inning with another three run inning. Grizzlies starer Eric Hacker doubled and scored on Bond's double. Graham was hit by a pitch and PIll two-run doubled to drive in Bond and Graham.

Restovich doubled and scored on Justin Sellers' homer in the bottom of the 7th inning for the final runs of the game.

Isotopes starter Alberto Bastardo lasted 1 1/3 innings, tying for the Isotopes' shortest starting pitcher outing of the season that was not injury related. Bastardo gave up 7 hits, 7 runs, walked one and fanned 3.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x4, 1 2B (25), 2 K, .286 AVG
Xavier Paul: 0x2, 2 HBP, .337 AVG
Josh Lindblom: 2.2 IP, 9 H, 5 R, 3 ER, 0 BB, 0 K, 1 HR, WP, 6.31 ERA


'TOPES NOTES:
The Dodgers placed IF Rafael Furcal on the disabled list Tuesday. The Dodgers have not made an official transaction to replace Furcal, but several sources are reporting that it is believed they will purchase the contract of IF Juan Castro from the Isotopes. . . . Isotopes pitching has allowed a home run in the last 12 contests, closing in on a franchise record. . . . Ben Copeland's steal of home plate was the first opponent steal of home plate since Reno's Cole Gillespie did it against the Isotopes on August 21, 2009 at Reno. . . . The Dodgers announced their organizational Dodger Pride award winners for July and at the Triple-A level, P Seth Etherton and IF/OF Jay Gibbons are the winners. Etherton went 1-1 with a 3.38 ERA in four July starts. Gibbons hit .383 (36x94) with 7 homers and 24 RBI during the month of July and was promoted on Sunday to the Dodgers. . . . The series, and homestand, concludes on Wednesday evening. Probables are RHP Tim Corcoran (5-7, 6.75) for the Isotopes and RHP Henry Sosa (6-5, 3.84) for the Grizzlies.

Filed 08/10/2010

August 9, 2010 - Isotopes (58-57)

Isotopes Park

Fresno         000 000 324 --  9  12  0
Albuquerque    010 000 000 --  1   6  1

WP: Kevin Pucetas (4-6)
LP: Claudio Vargas (2-5)

HR: FRE Jesus Guzman (16) off Dohmann (8th inning)

    ALB Jamie Hoffmann (6) off Pucetas (2nd inning)

TIME: 2:51
ATT: 7,474
Isotopes starter Claudio Vargas tossed six scoreless innings and held Albuquerque's slim lead before hitting a wall in the 7th inning as the Fresno Grizzlies (AAA Giants) scored nine late-game runs to defeat the Isotopes 9-1. Albuquerque remained three games back in the division because the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) also lost their contest on Monday evening.

Jamie Hoffmann solo homered in the 2nd inning for the first run of the game.

Vargas made that 1-0 lead stand until the 7th inning. Jesus Guzman doubled, Ben Copeland singled and Jackson Williams doubled to drive them both in to give Fresno the lead. Brock Bond reached on an error as Williams scored to make it 3-1 Fresno.

Former-Isotope Joe Borchard singled and scored on Guzman's homer in the 8th inning and in the 9th inning, Brett Pill singled home a run and Borchard tripled wtih the bases loaded to drive in three runs.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x3, 1 BB, .286 AVG
Xavier Paul: 0x4, 1 K, .340 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The Dodgers signed P Geoff Geary to a minor league deal and assigned him to Albuquerque on Monday. Geary started the season in the Texas Rangers organization with the Triple-A Oklahoma City Redhawks and went 5-4 with a 5.37 ERA in a mix of starts and relief appearances. The Dodgers optioned P Ramon Troncoso to Albuquerque and P Cody White was sent back to the rookie-level Arizona League Dodgers. . . . Micah Hoffpauir of the Iowa Cubs (AAA Cubs) is the PCL Hitter of the Week. Hoffpauir hit .536 (15x28) with 3 homers and 12 RBI during the week. . . . Michael Kirkman of the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) is the PCL Pitcher of the Week. Kirkman made and won both of his starts during the award week. In 11 2/3 innings, Kirkman had an ERA of 2.31, fanned 12, and gave up 11 hits, 3 runs, and 6 walks. . . . The series continues Tuesday evening. Probables are LHP Alberto Bastardo (5-3, 6.02) for the Isotopes and RHP Eric Hacker (13-5, 4.30) for the Grizzlies.

Filed 08/09/2010

August 8, 2010 - Isotopes (58-56)

Isotopes Park

Fresno         000 001 001  --  2   5  0
Albuquerque    021 121 10x  --  8  14  2

WP: Seth Etherton (4-4)
LP: Craig Whitaker (0-1)

HR: FRE Brett Pill (15) off White (9th inning)

TIME: 2:39
ATT: 7,206
Isotopes starter Seth Etherton was spectacular on Sunday evening against the Fresno Grizzlies (AAA Giants). Etherton tossed eight innings, giving the worn-out Isotopes bullpen almost the night off, and he no-hit the Grizzlies through the first four innings and had a shutout into the 6th inning as the Isotopes defeated the Grizzlies 8-2 in the series opener. Albuquerque remained three games back in the division as the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) won a rain-shortened game on Sunday evening.

In the 2nd inning, John Lindsey singled, Russ Mitchell walked and JD Closser singled to load the bases. Justin Sellers chopped a single into left field to bring home Lindsey and Mitchell as Albuquerque led 2-0.

In the 3rd inning, Mitchell sacrifice flied out to bring home Ivan DeJesus Jr. and in the 4th inning, Sellers doubled and scored on Etherton's single up the middle as the Isotopes led 4-0.

The Isotopes made it 8-0 in the 5th inning. Lindsey was hit by a pitch, Jamie Hoffmann walked, and Closser doubled into the left field corner to drive them both home.

Etherton lost his shutout in the 6th inning with no outs. Pinch-hitter Tyler Graham doubled and scored on Emmanuel Burriss' double.

In their half of the 6th inning, Albuquerque's Trent Oeltjen tripled and scored on DeJesus Jr.'s single and in the 7th inning, Hoffmann doubled and scored on Closser's single as Albuquerque led 8-1.

Brent Pill solo homered for Fresno in the 9th inning for the final run of the game.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x4, 1 R, 1 RBI (47), 1 BB, .288 AVG
Xavier Paul: 1x4, 1 2B (16), 1 K, .347 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
For the first time since 2007, Jay Gibbons is a big leaguer. The Dodgers designated OF Garret Anderson for assignment and purchased the contract of Gibbons from Albuquerque. Gibbons was hitting .347 with 19 homers and 83 RBI in 94 games for the Isotopes at the time of his promotion. Replacing Gibbons on the Isotopes roster is Michael Restovich. Waived last week to make roster room for Xavier Paul, the Dodgers were able to ink Restovich to a minor league deal and assign him to Albuquerque. P Bobby Livingston was released and P Cody White was promoted from rookie-level Arizona League Dodgers. . . . How spectacular was Seth Etherton's outing, innings-wise? In the previous three contests, all against the Sacramento River Cats, Isotopes starters combined to pitch 5 innings total while the bullpen tossed 21 innings. Etherton's 8 inning effort surpassed the Isotopes starters effort in those three previous games. The 8 inning start tied for the longest starting pitcher outing of the season for Albuquerque (Tim Corcoran). . . . The series continues Monday evening. Probables are RHP Claudio Vargas (2-4, 5.86) for the Isotopes and RHP Kevin Pucetas (3-6, 6.13) for the Grizzlies.

Filed 08/08/2010

August 7, 2010 - Isotopes (57-56)

Isotopes Park

Sacramento    082 020 000 000 --  12  22  1
Albuquerque    001 002 135 001 --  13  21  2

WP: Cory Wade (3-0)
LP: Justin James (0-1)

HR: SAC Chris Carter (27) off Link (5th inning)
    SAC Jeff Baisley (3) off Ely (2nd inning)

    ALB Mike Rivera (1) off Mortensen (7th inning)

TIME: 5:03
ATT: 11,019
Saturday evening ended up being a historic night for the Isotopes. Fans waiting for fireworks waited through a five hour, three minute contest -- the longest game time-wise in franchise history -- and saw the largest comeback to win in franchise history as the Isotopes battled from 12-1 down at one point to tie the game with an 11-run comeback and then in extra innings, JD Closser's single in the 12th inning won the game as Albuquerque defeated the Sacramento River Cats (AAA Athletics) 13-12. The victory snapped a two-game losing streak and improved the Isotopes' season record back over the .500 mark.

For the third game in a row, the River Cats plated lots of runs in the 2nd inning. In previous games, the frame put away the game but not tonight. Michael Taylor drew a one out walk and scored on Jeff Baisley's two run homer. Anthony Recker doubled and scored on Corey Wimberly's single. Eric Sogard singled to put runners on the corners and Chris Carter singled home Wimberly. Jeff Larish singled to load the bases and former-Isotope Dallas McPherson singled home Sogard and Carter. Steven Tolleson tripled home Larish and McPherson to complete the eight run outburst.

Carter singled home Recker and Larish doubled home Carter as the River Cats built the lead to 10-0 in the 3rd inning.

In the bottom of the 3rd inning, Jamie Hoffmann singled, advanced to second base on Mike Rivera's single, took third base on Juan Castro's groundout and scored on Trent Oeltjen's groundout to get Albuquerque on the scoreboard.

In Sacramento's 5th inning, Wimberly reached on an error and scored on Carter's two-run homer as the River Cats led 12-1.

The rest of the game was all Albuquerque. In the 6th inning, Oeltjen doubled, advanced to third base on Ivan DeJesus Jr.'s groundout, and scored on Xavier Paul's double. John Lindsey doubled home Paul as Albuquerque trailed 12-3.

Rivera solo-homered in the 7th inning and in the 8th inning, Paul singled, Lindsey doubled, and Closser singled home Paul and Lindsey. Hoffmann and Castro drew walks to advance Closser to third base and Oeltjen brought him home with a single as Albuquerque closed the gap to 12-7.

Albuquerque completed the 11-run comeback with a 5-run 9th inning. Paul singled and Lindsey flew out for the first out. Paul took second base on a wild pitch and scored on Closser's single. Russ Mitchell popped out for the second out and Hoffmann doubled. Rivera reached on an error as Closser scored and Hoffmann went to third base. Rivera went to second base on defensive indifference and Castro singled home Hoffmann. Oeltjen singled to drive in Rivera and DeJesus Jr. singled to drive in Castro to tie the game and Paul grounded out to send the game to extra innings.

In the top of the 12th inning, the River Cats had a golden opportunity to take the lead. Isotopes reliever Cory Wade had the bases loaded with one out. Wimberly reached on a fielder's choice with a force-out recorded at home plate and Eric Sogard grounded out to end the threat.

In the bottom of the 12th inning, DeJesus Jr. singled and after Paul struck out, Lindsey doubled and Closser followed with his game-winning single to bring home DeJesus Jr.

John Ely was once again unspectacular, lasting only 1 2/3 innings while giving up 8 runs and 9 hits. What was spectacular was the Isotopes bullpen combo of Scott Dohmann, Juan Perez, Josh Lindblom, Travis Schlichting and Cory Wade, who shut down the River Cats with 7 scoreless innings to give the Isotopes the opportunity to make their historic comeback and victory.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x7, 1 R, 1 RBI (46), 2 K, .289 AVG
Xavier Paul: 3x7, 3 R, 1 2B (15), 1 RBI (35), 1 K, .349 AVG
Josh Lindblom: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 2 K, 0 HR, HBP, 6.18 ERA


'TOPES NOTES:
Despite the historic night, the Isotopes efforts did not move them any closer to first place in the division. The Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) also won their contest on Saturday so the Isotopes remain 3 games back with 30 games left to play. . . . The Isotopes and River Cats completed their only series of the season and each team won two games in the series. 27,455 attended the series, shortened to 3 gates due to an unplayable grounds postponement that forced a doubleheader, and the per-gate average was 9,152. All-time, Sacramento holds a 18-14 advantage and each team has won 8 games at Isotopes Park. . . . Franchise records set in the game included largest comeback in a game (11 runs), largest comeback to win a game (11 runs), longest game, time-wise (5 hours, 3 minutes), and most combined hits in a game (43). . . . Season bests established included longest home game, innings-wise (12 innings), most at-bats in a game (56), and Isotope pitching strikeouts in a game (14). . . . Albuquerque tied a season high in hits (21) and Isotope batting strikeouts in a game (14). . . . Albuquerque is 9-5 in extra inning contests. . . . John Lindsey, Russ Mitchell and Mike Rivera each struck out 3 times in the game. . . . Lindsey had three doubles in the game, tying that franchise record for the third time this season. . . . There were two ejections in the game, both by Home Plate umpire Barry Larson. Sacramento's Jeff Baisley was ejected in the 2nd inning and Albuquerque's Scott Dohmann was ejected in the 6th inning. . . . The Fresno Grizzlies (AAA Giants) come to town for a four-game series starting Sunday evening. Probabls are RHP Seth Etherton (3-4, 4.48) for the Isotopes and the Grizzlies have yet to name a probable.

Filed 08/07/2010

August 6, 2010 - DH2 - Isotopes (56-56)

Isotopes Park

Sacramento     363 000 0 --  12  13  0
Albuquerque    020 000 1 --   3  11  0

WP: Fernando Hernandez (4-6)
LP: Tim Corcoran (5-7)

HR: SAC Jeff Larish (17) off Corcoran (2nd inning)
    SAC Jeff Larish (18) off Schlichting (3rd inning)

TIME: 2:36
ATT: 8,232
Sacramento River Cats' first baseman Jeff Larish went off on the Isotopes, clubbing two homers and driving in 7 runs and the River Cats duplicated their game one feat of scoring early and often to put the game away in defeating the Isotopes 12-3 to sweep the doubleheader from the Isotopes. Albuquerque has dropped two straight games, but only lost a half-game in the standings despite being swept as the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) lost their contest on Friday. Albuquerque is three games back of the Redhawks with 31 games left to play.

Larish singled home a run and Eric Sogard singled home two runs in the 1st inning as the River Cats were off and running at 3-0.

Just like in game one, Sacramento's big inning was the 2nd inning. Jared Price singled with one out, Corey Wimberly walked and Travis Buck singled home Price. Chris Carter walked to load the bases and Larish cleared them with a grand-slam homer. After former-Isotope Dallas McPherson struck out, Sogard walked and Jeff Baisley doubled him home.

Albuquerque was in a 9-0 defecit in their half of the 2nd inning when they got on the scoreboard. Russ Mitchell singled, Jamie Hoffmann doubled and Justin Sellers grounded out to bring home Mitchell. Trent Oeltjen singled home Hoffmann to make it 9-2 Sacramento.

Sacramento scored their final three runs in the 3rd inning. Carter singled home Wimberly and Larish followed with a two-run homer.

In the 7th inning, Juan Castro singled and scored on John Lindsey's triple for the final run of the game.

Isotopes starter Tim Corcoran tossed 1 2/3 innings, allowing 8 hits and 9 runs.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x2, 1 K, .289 AVG
Xavier Paul: 1x4, .346 AVG
Josh Lindblom: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 2 K, 0 HR, 6.26 ERA


'TOPES NOTES:
OF Xavier Paul reported to the team today after his option from the Dodgers and OF Michael Restovich was released to make roster room for him. Restovich appeared in 84 games for the Isotopes and hit .293 with 9 homers and 39 RBI. . . . At 2 hours, 36 minutes, the doubleheader contest was the longest home doubleheader game, time-wise, in Isotopes history. . . . Albuquerque was swept in a doubleheader for the first time since the 2008 season. . . . The Isotopes record is at the .500 mark at 56-56. It is the first time at the breakeven mark for Albuquerque since July 15th. . . . The Isotopes' doubleheader mark in 2010 is 4-5 - four complete doubleheaders played and only game one of a fifth doubleheader. . . . The hit machine, John Lindsey, went 4x4 in the game -- his sixth game in 2010 of four hits or more. . . . Albuquerque pitching has allowed three grand-slam homers this season. . . . Tim Corcoran leads the Isotopes staff with 7 losses and Corcoran tied a starter season-high with 9 earned runs allowed in an outing (Josh Towers). . . . Ivan DeJesus Jr. was ejected by Home Plate umpire Takeshi Hirabayashi in the 3rd inning. . . . Sacramento's Jeff Larish made a very strong case in today's doubleheader to be the PCL Hitter of the Week. In the second game of the twinbill, Larish was 3x5 with 2 homers and 7 RBI. In both games, Larish homered three times and drove in 10. . . . The series concludes on Saturday evening. Probables are RHP John Ely (4-2, 4.89) looking to get back on-track and avoid giving up the big early run innings for the Isotopes. Sacramento is expected to counter wtih RHP Clayton Mortensen (11-5, 3.82).

Filed 08/06/2010

August 6, 2010 - DH1 - Isotopes (56-55)

Isotopes Park

Sacramento     082 040 0 --  14  12  0
Albuquerque    001 040 0 --   5   9  1

WP: Tyson Ross (2-1)
LP: Alberto Bastardo (5-3)

HR: SAC Chris Carter (26) off Livingston (5th inning)
    SAC Jeff Larish (16) off Bastardo (2nd inning)

    ALB Justin Sellers (6) off Ross (3rd inning)

TIME: 2:26
The Sacramento River Cats (AAA Athletics) plated ten runs in the first three innings in a 14-5 defeat of the Isotopes in the first game of a doubleheader.

The River Cats began their decimation of the Isotopes in the 2nd inning. Jeff Larish singled and scored on former-Isotope Dallas McPherson's double. Michael Taylor walked and Steven Tolleson singled to load the bags. After a strikeout, Anthony Recker doubled home McPherson and Taylor. Corey Wimberly reached on a sacrifice bunt to bring home Tolleson and advanced into scoring position on an error during the play. Travis Buck grounded out to drive in Recker and Chris Carter walked ahead of Larish's three-run homer as the River Cats led 8-0.

In the 3rd inning, Recker grounded out to bring home a run and Buck doubled home a run as the River Cats extended their lead to 10-0.

Justin Sellers solo homer in the 3rd inning got the Isotopes on the scoreboard.

Each team had a big 5th inning. For Sacramento, Eric Sogard singled, Recker doubled to drive in Sogard, and Buck was hit by a pitch. Carter followed with a three-run homer as the River Cats led 14-1.

In the home half of the 5th inning, Sellers walked, Trent Oeltjen singled and a wild pitch advanced both runners a base. Ivan DeJesus Jr. doubled home Seller and Oeltjen before scoring on Jay Gibbon's double. Jamie Hoffmann singled home Gibbons for the final run of the game.

Isotopes starter Alberto Bastardo was roughed up for 8 runs and 5 hits in 1 2/3 innings. His ERA entering the game was 4.86 and ended up at 6.02 after his outing.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x4, 1 R, 1 2B (24), 2 RBI (45), 1 K, .290 AVG


Filed 08/06/2010

Isotopes, River Cats Postponed

Heavy afternoon rains hit Isotopes Park on Thursday afternoon and the contest between the Sacramento River Cats (AAA Athletics) and Albuquerque Isotopes was postponed due to unplayable grounds. The River Cats and Isotopes are scheduled to play a doubleheader Friday (4:35pm, gates open at 3:30pm). It was the eighth home postponement in franchise history and the first one since May 15, 2008. Probables in Game 1 are LHP Alberto Bastardo (5-2, 4.86) for the Isotopes and RHP Tyson Ross (1-1, 2.21) for the River Cats. Game 2 probables are RHP Tim Corcoran (5-6, 5.76) for Albuquerque and RHP Bobby Cramer (No Record) for Sacramento. Despite not playing, the Isotopes lost a half-game in the division -- now 2.5 games back -- because the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) won on Thursday.
Filed 08/05/2010

August 4, 2010 - Isotopes (56-54)

Isotopes Park

Sacramento     301 100 000 --  5  12  0
Albuquerque    220 000 02x --  6   9  0

WP: Josh Lindblom (3-2)
LP: Jon Hunton (5-4)
SV: Scott Dohmann (12)

HR: SAC Chris Carter (25) off Vargas (1st inning)

    ALB Jay Gibbons (19) off Banwart (1st inning)

TIME: 3:03
ATT: 8,204
Michael Restovich singled home the game winning runs in the bottom of the 8th inning as the Isotopes got their homestand off to a good start with a 6-5 victory over the Sacramento River Cats (AAA Athletics) on Wednesday evening. The victory, which snapped a three-game losing streak, combined with an Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) loss, moved the Isotopes to 2 games back of the Redhawks in the division.

Isotopes starter Claudio Vargas was quickly roughed up in the 1st inning. Vargas allowed a game leadoff walk to Corey Wimberly, Travis Buck singled and Chris Carter followed with a three-run homer as the River Cats led 3-0 before their first out was recorded.

Albuquerque used the big fly in their half of the 1st inning to cut into the defecit. Ivan DeJesus Jr. one-out singled and scored on Jay Gibbon's team-lead-tying 19th homer.

In the 2nd inning, Jamie Hoffmann walked and later came around to score on JD Closser's single as the Isotopes tied the game and Trent Oeltjen tripled home Closser as the Isotopes took a 4-3 lead.

The River Cats tied the game in the 3rd inning on Jeff Larish's single and took a 5-4 lead in the 4th inning when Wimberly singled home a run.

Sacramento held onto that slim lead until the 8th inning. Russ Mitchell drew a one out walk and Gibbons singled. After John Lindsey struck out, Hoffmann drew a walk to load the bases. Restovich followed with a single to bring home Mitchell and Gibbons.

Vargas, fresh off the disabled list, went 4 1/3 innings, allowing 5 runs and 9 hits.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x4, 1 R, .288 AVG
Josh Lindblom: (W, 3-2) 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 1 K, 0 HR, 6.34 ERA


'TOPES NOTES:
There were Isotope transactions on Wednesday that affected every positional category. For pitchers, Claudio Vargas came off the Disabled List and Jesus Rodriguez was placed on the disabled list with a right calf strain. For catchers, A.J. Ellis was recalled by the Dodgers when the Dodgers placed C Russell Martin on the disabled list and Mike Rivera was brought up from Class-AA Chattanooga. In the infielders department, the Dodgers signed Juan Castro to a minor-league deal and assigned him to Albuquerque and Elian Herrera was sent to Class-AA Chattanooga. Finally, for the outfielders, the Dodgers optioned OF Xavier Paul to Albuquerque when they activated OF Reed Johnson. . . . The Isotopes drew their 400,000th (400,962) fan in their 51st home gate tonight. . . . Isotopes manager Tim Wallach and catcher JD Closser were both ejected in the 8th inning by Home Plate umpire Takeshi Hirabayashi. . . . In former Isotopes news, the Diamondbacks sent IF Tony Abreu back to the minor leagues when they optioned him to Triple-A Reno. . . . The series with the River Cats continues Thursday evening. Probables are LHP Alberto Bastardo (5-2, 4.86) for the Isotopes and RHP Tyson Ross (1-2, 2.21) for Sacramento.

Filed 08/04/2010

August 3, 2010 - Isotopes (55-54)

Zephyr Field

Albuquerque    000 000 111 --  3  11  2
New Orleans    120 020 03x --  8  15  3

WP: Matt Peterson (3-0)
LP: Seth Etherton (3-4)

HR: NRL Brett Carroll (5) off Etherton (5th inning)

TIME: 3:00
ATT: 2,121
The Isotopes late-series woes in New Orleans continued on Tuesday morning. Seth Etherton allowed five runs (four earned) in 6 innings and the Isotopes were only able to muster three runs in falling to the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) 8-3. Albuquerque has dropped three straight games.

Etherton didn't help himself in the 1st inning. Cameron Maybin bunt singled with one out and advanced to second base on Etherton's throwing error. Mike Lamb followed with a double to bring Maybin home as the Zephyrs quickly led 1-0.

In the 2nd inning, former-Isotope Brett Carroll doubled and came around to score when Gookie Dawkins singled and then a fielding error allowed Carroll to come home while Dawkins held at first base. Zephyrs pitcher Matt Peterson laid down a sacrifice bunt to advance Dawkins to second base before Scott Cousins doubled him home for a 3-0 lead.

New Orleans added two more runs in the 5th inning when Mark Saccomanno singled and scored on Carroll's two-run homer.

Albuquerque took advantage of some Zephyrs generosity in the 7th inning to avoid being shut out. Justin Sellers walked, pinch-hitter Elian Herrera and Trent Oeltjen each reached on errors with Sellers scoring on Oeltjen's play.

In the 8th inning, Jamie Hoffmann singled, advanced to second base on Michael Restovich's groundout, and scored on a fielding error after A.J. Ellis singled.

The Zephyrs added their final three runs in their half of the 8th inning. Maybin doubled home a run, later scored on Carroll's sacrifice flyout, and Dawkins singled home a run.

In the 9th inning, Oeltjen walked, advanced to third base on Ivan DeJesus Jr.'s single and scored on Hoffmann's single for the final run of the game.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x5, 2 K, .288 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The Dodgers placed P Jeff Weaver on the Disabled List and recalled P Ramon Troncoso from Albuquerque. . . . With the loss and the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) winning on Tuesday, the Isotopes dropped to 3 games back in the division. . . . Albuquerque is hanging onto a one-game above the .500 mark record at 55-54 and is holding onto second place by just one game over the Zephyrs. . . . The Zephyrs won three out of the five games in the series and 16,785 attended with a per-gate average of 4,196 -- a doubleheader made up one of the gates. . . . Today's contest marked the final contest of 2010 played in Metarie and both teams won four games. All-time at Zephyr Field, the Zephyrs hold a 32-30 advantage. . . . After homering in the series opener, the Isotopes went homerless in the final four games of the series. The homer drought meant Albuquerque was outhomered in the series 6-1. . . . The Isotopes open an critical eight game homestand starting Wednesday evening, starting with a four game series against the Sacramento River Cats (AAA Athletics). Probables in the opener are RHP Claudio Vargas (2-4, 5.23) for the Isotopes and RHP Travis Banwart (2-2, 5.67) for the River Cats. Albuquerque needs to find and take advantage of the home field if they expect to stay in the division race through this final month of play.

Filed 08/03/2010

August 2, 2010 - Isotopes (55-53)

Zephyr Field

Albuquerque    000 000 100 --   1   7  0
New Orleans    053 000 02x --  10  10  0

WP: Nic Ungs (1-0)
LP: John Ely (4-2)

HR: NRL Scott Cousins (10) off Herrera (8th inning)
    NRL Neil Wilson (4) off Ely (3rd inning)

TIME: 3:02
ATT: 4,454
John Ely was hammered for 8 runs in 3 innings, not helped by allowing five walks and four hits, as the Isotopes fell to the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) 10-1 on Monday evening in Metarie, Lousiana. Albuquerque has dropped two straight games.

Ely pitched a scoreless first inning before the Zephyrs got to him in the 2nd inning. With one out, Brian Barden, John Raynor, and Gookie Dawkins each drew consecutive walks to load the bags. After Neil Wilson popped out, former-Isotope and Zephyrs starter Nic Ungs doubled to clear the bags. Scott Cousins walked and Ely uncorked a wild pitch. Cameron Maybin tripled to drive in Ungs and Cousins before Ely got Mike Lamb to ground out to end the inning.

New Orleans extended their lead to 8-0 in the 3rd inning when Barden doubled, Dawkins walked, and Wilson three-run homered.

Albuquerque avoided the shutout in the 7th inning. Jay Gibbons singled, John Lindsey walked and Jamie Hoffmann singled to load the bases with no outs. JD Closser struck out swinging before Justin Sellers sacrifice flied out to bring home Gibbons. Pinch-hitter Michael Restovich then fouled out to end the rally.

Elian Herrera moved from second base to pitcher in the 8th inning to save the bullpen an inning in the blowout and Cousins greeted him with a solo homer. An out later, Mike Lamb doubled, took third base on Mark Saccomanno's single and scored on Barden's sacrifice flyout.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x1, .289 AVG
Josh Lindblom: 1 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 2 K, 0 HR, 6.42 ERA


'TOPES NOTES:
The Isotopes remained 2 games back in the PCL American Conference Southern Division race as the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) also lost on Monday. . . . The Isotopes have gone homerless in three straight games. For comparision, the Zephyrs have hit four homers in the three games. . . . Elian Herrera is the third position player to pitch for Albuquerque this season. Herrera tossed one inning and allowed 3 hits, 2 runs, a walk and allowed a homer. . . . Bryan LaHair of the Iowa Cubs (AAA Cubs) is the PCL Hitter of the Week. LaHair hit .455 (10x22) with 4 homers and 14 RBI. . . . Philip Humber of the Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) is the PCL Pitcher of the Week. Humber made one start, a complete game shutout, and allowed 4 hits, walked 2 and struck out 7 in the effort. . . . The series (and roadtrip) concludes Tuesday morning. Probables are RHP Seth Etherton (3-3, 4.35) for the Isotopes and RHP Brian Lawrence (8-4, 4.73) for the Zephyrs.

Filed 08/02/2010

August 1, 2010 - DH2 - Isotopes (55-52)

Zephyr Field - DH Game 2

Albuquerque  100 100 0 --  2   5  0
New Orleans  041 003 x --  8  16  0

WP: Matt Peterson (2-0)
LP: Bobby Livingston (0-1)

HR: NRL Gookie Dawkins (7) off Rodriguez (6th inning)

TIME: 2:33
ATT: 5,432
Bobby Livingston made his Isotopes dubut in the nightcap of a doubleheader and allowed five runs and 9 hits in 2 1/3 innings as the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) defeated the Isotopes 8-2 to avoid being swept.

Albuquerque plated the first run of the game in the 1st inning. With two outs, Russ Mitchell doubled and scored on Jamie Hoffmann's double.

The Zephyrs put away the game in the 2nd inning. Former-Isotope Brett Carroll and Jeff Corsaletti singled and both scored on Neil Wilson's double. An out later, Cameron Maybin doubled home Wilson. Maybin took third base on a wild pitch and scored on Mike Lamb's single as the Zephyrs led 4-1.

Zephyrs starter James Houser singled home a run in the 3rd inning as the Zephyrs built their lead to 5-1.

Albuquerque got their final run in the 4th inning. Justin Sellers singled, advanced to second base on pinch-hitter Michael Restovich's walk, and scored on Elian Herrera's single.

New Orleans plated their final three runs in the 6th inning when Brian Barden and Lamb singled and Gookie Dawkins homered.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x4, 1 K, .290 AVG
Josh Lindblom: 1 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 2 K, 0 HR, 6.51 ERA


'TOPES NOTES:
There were several Isotope transactions on Sunday. P Tim Corcoran was activated from the Disabled List and P Jesus Castillo was transferred to Class-AA Chattanooga. The Dodgers signed P Bobby Livingston to a minor-league contract and assigned him to Albuquerque. Livingston started the season with the Mets Triple-A affiliate Buffalo Bisons and in 22 games (15 starts) compiled a 3-8 record wtih a 5.34 ERA before being released. Finally, the Dodgers optioned P Travis Schlichting to Albuquerque. . . . The Isotopes have played four doubleheaders - splitting two, sweeping one and losing one game of a doubleheader that was shortened to just the first game due to several rain delays. . . . Albuquerque went homerless in both games of the doubleheader. . . . With the doubleheader split and the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) losing their game on Sunday, the Isotopes pulled to 2 games back of the Redhawks in the division race. . . . Trent Oeltjen and Elian Herrera each had a rough game, striking out 3 times each. . . . John Lindsey went hitless in a pinch-hit at-bat to snap a 7-game hitting streak. Jay Gibbons went hitless in 3 at-bats to snap his 7-game hitting streak. With the end of those two streaks, every current active Isotope hitting streak is under five games. . . . The series continues Monday evening. Probables are RHP John Ely (4-1, 3.09) for the Isotopes and former-Isotope P Nic Ungs (No Record) for the Zephyrs, making his first Triple-A appearance since the 2008 season.

Filed 08/01/2010

August 1, 2010 - Isotopes DH1 (55-51)

Zephyr Field - DH Game 1

Albuquerque  000 100 2 --  3  4  0
New Orleans  000 002 0 --  2  8  1

WP: Cory Wade (2-0)
LP: Scott Strickland (4-1)
SV: Scott Dohmann (11)

HR: NRL Brett Carroll (4) off Wade (6th inning)

TIME: 2:18
In the opener of a doubleheader, the Isotopes held a 1-0 lead when former-Isotope Brett Carroll two-run homered in the bottom of the 6th inning to give the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) the lead. The Isotopes were able to rally for two runs in the final frame to come from behind to defeat the Zephyrs 3-2.

The Isotopes were no-hit into the 4th inning. With one out, Russ Mitchell doubled for Albuquerque's first hit. An out later, Jamie Hoffmann singled him home for a 1-0 lead.

In the 6th inning, Brian Barden singled, stole second base, and was able to trot home on Carroll's two-out homer as the Zephyrs seemed to be on their way to claiming the game.

Albuquerque didn't go quietly in the 7th inning against former-Isotope closer Scott Strickland. John Lindsey singled and was replaced by pinch-runner Elian Herrera. Two outs later and with Herrera on second base after a stolen base, Isotopes manager Tim Wallach was ejected for arguing balls and strikes. The delay seemed to unnerve Strickland as he prompted to walk JD Closser before giving up a single to pinch-hitter Jay Gibbons. Herrera scored on the single while Closser came around to score when the throw to home plate was wild for an error.

Tim Corcoran started for the Isotopes fresh off the Disabled List and tossed three scoreless innings, allowing 4 hits, no walks and he fanned one.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x3, 1 K, .293 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The Isotopes are 16-16 in one run contests in 2010. . . . Albuquerque was economical with their hits - despite tying a season-low in hits (4), they were able to come up with enough offense to win. . . . The Isotopes have 13 last at-bat victories and Jay Gibbons has played a part in four of those. . . . Trent Oeltjen went hitless in three at-bats to snap a 9-game hitting streak. The longest current hitting streaks belong to Gibbons and John Lindsey - 7 games. . . . There have been seven Isotope ejections this season, with Tim Wallach ejected three times.

Filed 08/01/2010

July 31, 2010 - Isotopes (54-51)

Zephyr Field

Albuquerque    010 111 011 --  6  11  1
New Orleans    011 001 002 --  5   9  1

WP: Alberto Bastardo (5-2)
LP: Tom Mastny (3-2)
SV: Juan Perez (1)

HR: ALB John Lindsey (18) off Mastny (2nd inning)

    NRL Gookie Dawkins (6) off Dohmann (9th inning)

TIME: 3:26
ATT: 4,778
The Isotopes had a three run lead going into the bottom of the 9th inning, allowed two New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) runs before ending the rally and holding on to a 6-5 victory over the Zephyrs in the series opener on Saturday evening in Metarie, Louisiana. The victory, combined with an Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) loss, moved Albuquerque to 2.5 games back of the Redhawks in the division.

John Lindsey solo homered in the 2nd inning as Albuquerque took a 1-0 lead. In the bottom half of the inning, Chris Hatcher doubled home a run to tie the game at 1-1.

Scott Cousins doubled, was sacrifice bunted to third base and scored on Mike Lamb's single as the Zephyrs led 2-1.

The Isotopes plated runs over the next three frames. In the 4th inning, Jay Gibbons singled, John Lindsey walked and A.J. Ellis singled home Gibbons. In the 5th inning, Russ Mitchell doubled and scored on Gibbons' single, and in the 6th inning, Justin Sellers walked and later scored on a wild pitch as Albuquerque led 4-2.

In the bottom of the 6th inning, a wild pitch brought home a run as the Zephyrs trailed by a run at 4-3.

In the 8th inning, Ellis walked, advanced to second base on Isotopes reliever Ramon Troncoso's sacrifice bunt, and scored on Trent Oeltjen's single.

Albuquerque extended the lead to 6-3 in the 9th inning when Jamie Hoffmann singled home pinch-runner Elian Herrera.

Gookie Dawkins two-run homered off Isotopes reliever Scott Dohmann in the 9th inning with no outs as the Zephyrs pulled to a run down. Former-Isotope Brett Carroll singled, took second base on a wild pitch and advanced to third base on Hatcher's sacrifice bunt. Juan Perez relieved Dohmann and got pinch-hitter Danny Richar to strike out and Cousins to ground out to strand Carroll at third base as the game ended.

Alberto Bastardo started for the Isotopes and gave up 3 runs and 7 hits in 5 2/3 innings. Bastardo walked 3 and struck out 6.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x5, 1 K, .296 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
P Mario Alvarez, who did not see any action for the Isotopes, was transferred from Albuquerque to Class-AA Chattanooga on Saturday. . . . With the trade deadline passing, there were no more Isotopes who were dealt away in trades, but there were some former Isotopes dealt. In the trade to the Cubs for Ryan Theriot and Ted Lilly, former-Isotope Blake DeWitt was traded away, along with manager Tim Wallach's son Brett Wallach. In the trade with the Pirates for Octavio Dotel, former-Isotope James McDonald was traded away. . . . Now that July is over, here are some Isotope July totals: 15-13 record (7-7 at home, 8-6 on the road), .305 team batting average, 5.71 team ERA, 176 runs scored, 18 stolen bases, and 39 homers. . . . Jay Gibbons came up with his fifth 4-hit game of the season. . . . Trent Oeltjen hit safely to extend his hitting streak to 9 games. . . . The Isotopes and Zephyrs play a doubleheader on Sunday to make up an April rainout as well as to play the regularly scheduled game. Albuquerque has not announced probables, while the Zephyrs are planning to send to the mound LHP Sean West (4-3, 3.12) in game 1 and RHP Adalberto Mendez (4-3, 4.15) in game 2.

Filed 07/31/2010

July 30, 2010 - Isotopes (Suspended Game)

Isotopes Park

Iowa           4xx xxx xxx  --  4  3  0
Albuquerque    xxx xxx xxx  --  0  0  0

HR: IWA Ty Wright (1) off Ely (1st inning)

John Ely started for Albuquerque and allowed four first-inning runs to the Iowa Cubs (AAA Cubs) and got one out in the inning before the rains hit Isotopes Park. After an hour and 28 minute delay, the game was suspended due to unplayable field conditions.

In the 1st inning, Sam Fuld drew a leadoff walk and Darwin Barney singled. After Bobby Scales struck out, Micah Hoffpauir doubled home Fuld and Barney. Ty Wright followed with a two-run homer as Iowa led 4-0 before the rains came.


'TOPES NOTES:
The game will be resumed on August 31st when the Iowa Cubs are back in town for Albuquerque's final four game home series of the season. The completed game will be followed by the regularly-scheduled game, shortened to seven innings. . . . The suspension was Albuquerque's eighth home game suspension in franchise history. . . . There were some Isotope transactions on Friday. C JD Closser was activated from the Disabled List and C Esteban Lopez was placed on the disabled list. P Bobby Blevins was sent to Class-A Inland Empire and P Cody White was sent to the rookie-Arizona League Dodgers. . . . The series is incomplete with the suspended game, but Iowa so far leads 2-1 in the series and 25,057 have attended the three official games played. Attendance for the fourth game will not be announced until the suspended game is completed. . . . For the seven officially played games in the homestand, 59,291 attended and Albuquerque went 2-5 during the homestand. . . . The Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) won Friday evening, so Albuquerque lost a half game back in the division. Albuquerque is currently 3.5 games back of the Redhawks in the PCL American Conference Southern Division. . . . Albuquerque travels to Metarie, Louisiana for a five-game series against the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) -- four games plus a makeup game from a rainout the last time Albuquerque was in New Orleans. The doubleheader day is scheduled for Sunday August 1st. Probables in the opener Saturday evening are RHP Alberto Bastardo (4-2, 4.88) for the Isotopes and RHP Tom Mastny (3-1, 2.57) for the Zephyrs.

Filed 07/30/2010

July 29, 2010 - Isotopes (53-51)

Isotopes Park

Iowa           000 000 040 --  4  5  0
Albuquerque    000 000 110 --  2  9  1

WP: Mitch Atkins (6-2)
LP: Josh Lindblom (2-2)
SV: Jeff Stevens (2)

TIME: 2:54
ATT: 5,110
Isotopes starter Seth Etherton was spectacular in a pitcher's duel with the Iowa Cubs (AAA Cubs) on Thursday evening. Etherton worked 7 scoreless innings with 2 hits allowed, no walks and 7 strikeouts. After Etherton tossed his last pitch, his teammates were able to put up a run on the scoreboard to put him in line for the victory, but the Cubs plated four runs in the 8th inning to hand Etherton a no-decision in an Isotope 4-2 loss. Albuquerque moved to three games back in the division with the defeat as the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) won tonight.

In the 7th inning, A.J. Ellis doubled and scored on pinch-hitter Michael Restovich's double as the Isotopes snapped the scoreless game and took a 1-0 lead.

The very next half-inning, Josh Lindblom entered the game in relief for Albuquerque and after getting Marquez Smith to groundout, Welington Castillo walked, Matt Camp flied out, then pinch-hitter Jason Dubois singled. Sam Fuld singled home Castillo and Casey Coleman came into the game to pinch run for Dubois. Darwin Barney reached on catcher's interference to load the bags and Brad Snyder drew a walk to bring home Coleman. Bryan LaHair singled home Fuld and Barney as Iowa led 4-1.

The Isotopes got their final run in the bottom of the 8th inning. Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled, took second base on a wild pitch and scored on Jay Gibbons' single.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x5, 1 R, .297 AVG
Josh Lindblom: (BS, 3) (L, 2-2) 1 IP, 3 H, 4 R, 3 ER, 2 BB, 0 K, 0 HR, 6.60 ERA


'TOPES NOTES:
The Isotopes activated C Esteban Lopez from the disabled list and P Mario Alvarez was transferred from Class-AA Chattanooga to Albuquerque. Alvarez made 20 appearances (19 starts) going 6-5 with a 4.81 ERA with the Lookouts. . . . The Dodgers designated P Jack Taschner for assignment Thursday. Taschner has not decided yet if he will accept an assignment to Albuquerque if he clears waivers this weekend. . . . In former Isotope news, the Florida Marlins purchased the contract of IF Hector Luna, placing Luna back in the majors for the first time since 2008 when he saw action in two games for the Blue Jays. . . . The series (and the disappointing losing-record homestand) ends on Friday evening. Probables are RHP John Ely (4-1, 3.09) for the Isotopes and RHP Casey Coleman (10-7, 4.07) for the I-Cubs.

Filed 07/29/2010

July 28, 2010 - Isotopes (53-50)

Isotopes Park

Iowa          000 100 030 --  4  14  0
Albuquerque   202 202 00x --  8  11  0

WP: Bobby Blevins (1-1)
LP: J.R. Mathes (8-7)

HR: IWA Micah Hoffpauir (17) off Blevins (4th inning)

    ALB Russ Mitchell (19) off Mathes (3rd inning)
    ALB John Lindsey (17) off Mathes (3rd inning)
    ALB Ivan DeJesus Jr. (5) off Mathes (4th inning)

TIME: 2:54
ATT: 5,110
John Lindsey homered and drove in four runs as the Isotopes snapped a two-game losing streak with a 8-4 victory over the Iowa Cubs (AAA Cubs) on Wednesday evening. Despite the victory, Albuquerque remained two games back in their division since the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) also won their contest.

Albuquerque did not take long to build a 2-0 lead. In the 1st inning, Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled with one out, Russ Mitchell singled, and Lindsey singled home DeJesus Jr. Jamie Hoffmann followed with a run-scoring single to bring home Mitchell.

Mitchell hit his team-leading 19th homer to lead off the 3rd inning for Albuquerque and Lindsey followed with a solo homer as the Isotopes extended their lead to 4-0.

Micah Hoffpauir homered for the second day in a row in the 4th inning as Iowa got on the scoreboard.

In the bottom of the 4th inning, Justin Sellers tripled and scored on Trent Oeltjen's groundout and DeJesus Jr. solo homered as the Isotopes led 6-1.

Albuquerque scored their final two runs in the 6th inning. Isotopes reliever Bobby Blevins drew a one out walk and advanced to second base on a wild pitch. Oeltjen singled to put runners on the corners before moving into scoring position on a stolen base. After DeJesus Jr. popped out, Lindsey doubled home Blevins and Oeltjen.

Iowa scored three times in the 8th inning. Bryan LaHair ground-rule doubled home a run, Bobby Scales grounded out to bring home a run, and Sam Fuld singled home a run.

Jon Link came out of the bullpen to make a spot start for Albuquerque and tossed three scoreless innings, allowing 3 hits.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x5, 2 R, 1 2B (23), 1 HR (5), 1 RBI (43), .298 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
If you want to continue following catcher Lucas May's career, you will have to follow the Kansas City Royals organization. The Dodgers acquired OF Scott Podsednik on Wednesday evening from the Royals in exchange for two minor leaguers, May and P Elisaul Pimentel. May, a 2010 PCL All-Star, ends his Isotopes career hitting .296 with 11 homers and 45 RBI in 73 games. The Royals said that May has been assigned to Triple-A Omaha. . . . It poured on a day that ended a four-day Isotope transaction drought. Pitchers Claudio Vargas (sore lower back) and Charlie Haeger (lower back strain) were both placed on the disabled list, P Bobby Blevins was transferred from Class-AA Chattanooga to Albuquerque, and P Cody White was transferred from rookie-Arizona League Dodgers to Albuquerque. P Justin Miller, who was designated for assignment by the Dodgers last week, cleared waivers and was outrighted to Albuquerque. . . . Isotopes batters have back-to-back homered in the last two contests. . . . Tim Corcoran made his second rehabilitation assignment start for the rookie Arizona League Dodgers as he works towards a return to the Isotopes. On Monday evening, Corcoran tossed 2 scoreless innings allowing no hits, no walks, and 3 strikeouts. In two outings, Corcoran has pitched three scoreless innings with no hits allowed, 1 walk and 4 strikeouts. . . . The series with the I-Cubs continues on Thursday evening. Probables are RHP Seth Etherton (3-3, 4.82) for the Isotopes and RHP Thomas Diamond (5-4, 3.28) for the Cubs.

Filed 07/28/2010

July 27, 2010 - Isotopes (52-50)

Isotopes Park

Iowa          202 062 110 --  14  12  0
Albuquerque   300 041 301 --  12  17  0

WP: Jay Jackson (7-6)
LP: Jesus Castillo (1-5)
SV: Jeff Stevens (1)

HR: IWA Welington Castillo (5) off Troncoso (5th inning)
    IWA Micah Hoffpauir (16) off Perez (8th inning)

    ALB Russ Mitchell (18) off Jackson (5th inning)
    ALB Jay Gibbons (18) off Jackson (5th inning)

TIME: 3:20
ATT: 9,771
Russ Mitchell homered and drove in four runs, and Jay Gibbons, John Lindsey, and Ivan DeJesus Jr. added 2 RBI each. Despite the 10 combined runs driven in by the quartet, it was not enough offense as the Iowa Cubs (AAA Cubs) outslugged the Isotopes 14-12 in the series opener Tuesday evening. The loss was Albuquerque's second straight.

The Cubs struck first in the 1st inning. Sam Fuld drew a leadoff walk and stole second base. Darwin Barney singled and Brad Snyder doubled home Fuld. Two outs later, a wild pitch brought home Barney as the Cubs led 2-0.

Albuquerque took their only lead, 3-2, in their half of the 1st inning. Trent Oeltjen walked, Mitchell singled and John Lindsey tripled to bring them home. Jamie Hoffmann then singled to drive in Lindsey.

Iowa regained the lead in the 3rd inning. Fuld singled and scored on Barney's triple and Barney scored on Micah Hoffpauir's sacrifice flyout.

The Cubs put up a big number in the 5th inning to take a commanding lead. Cubs starter Jay Jackson singled, Fuld and Barney walked to load the bases and Snyder doubled home Jackson and Fuld. With two outs in the inning, Bryan LaHair was intentionally walked to reload the bases and Welington Castillo cleared them with a grand slam homer as the Cubs led 10-3.

Albuquerque cut into that defecit somewhat in the bottom of the 5th inning. Oeltjen doubled, DeJesus Jr. singled and Mitchell followed with a three-run homer, his team-leading 18th homer. That team lead only lasted moments as Jay Gibbons stepped up to the plate and solo-homered to tie Mitchell atop the team leaderboard as the Isotopes trailed 10-7.

Iowa put two runs on the scoreboard in the top of the 6th inning when Snyder sacrifice flied out to bring home a run and Hoffpauir doubled home a run.

In the bottom of the 6th inning, Elian Herrera walked and later scored when Mitchell sacrifice flied out as the Isotopes trailed 12-8.

Each team added more runs in the 7th inning. In the top half, Jason Dubois brought LaHair home with a sacrifice flyout, and in the bottom half, Iowa's Carlos Zambrano made a rehabilitation assignment appearance and after getting Lindsey to ground out, Hoffmann singled, A.J. Ellis was hit by a pitch and pinch-hitter Michael Restovich singled to load the bases. Elina Herrera walked to bring home Hoffmann and Oeltjen struck out. DeJesus Jr. singled home Ellis and Restovich before Mitchell grounded out to end the rally. Albuquerque found themselves down 13-11 at the end of the inning.

Hoffpauir solo homered to extend Iowa's lead to 14-11 in the 8th inning and Albuquerque plated their final run in the bottom of the 9th inning. Oeltjen doubled, advanced to third base on Mitchell's single and scored on Gibbons' groundout.

Jesus Castillo made the spot start for Albuquerque after Claudio Vargas was scratched with a sore back. Castillo allowed 6 runs and 5 hits in 4 innings and saw his season ERA soar to 10.27.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x5, 1 R, 2 RBI (42), 1 BB, .297 AVG
Lucas May: 0x0, 1 BB, .296 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The Los Angeles Times reported the Dodgers inked 38-year old IF Juan Castro to a minor league deal. Castro will be working out at the Dodgers training facility in Arizona and should join the Isotopes in time for a homestand that begins August 4th. . . . Carlos Zambrano pitched an inning for the I-Cubs and allowed 3 hits, 3 runs, one walk and he fanned one Isotope. His ERA on his rehabilitation assignment is 6.75. . . . The Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) won their game on Tuesday evening so the Isotopes dropped to two games back in the division with tonight's defeat. . . . The Isotopes are 9-7 in two run contests. . . . John Lindsey had two triples in the game, tying an Isotope franchise record. . . . Isotope batters have homered back-to-back five times in 2010 and Jay Gibbons has played a part in four of those. . . . Welington Castillo's grand-slam homer was the second grand-slam homer Isotope pitching has allowed in 2010. . . . The series continues Wednesday evening. The Isotopes probable is to be announced, while the I-Cubs are expected to counter with LHP J.R. Mathes (8-6, 5.03).

Filed 07/27/2010

July 26, 2010 - Isotopes (52-49)

Isotopes Park

Nashville      712 010 010 --  12  15  0
Albuquerque    103 020 00x --   6  13  2

WP: Chase Wright (7-6)
LP: Alberto Bastardo (4-2)

HR: NSH Joe Koshansky (17) off Bastardo (1st inning)
    NSH Martin Maldonado (3) off Troncoso (8th inning)

TIME: 2:41
ATT: 5,082
Isotopes starter Alberto Bastardo gave up seven 1st inning runs to the Nashville Sounds (AAA Brewers) and the Sounds were able to hold that lead in defeating the Isotopes 12-6 in a game marred by two rain delays and shortened to 8 innings due to rain. Despite the loss, Albuquerque remains a game back in the division because division-leader Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) also lost their contest Monday.

In Nashville's big 1st inning, Lorenzo Cain tripled and scored on Norris Hopper's single. After Mat Gamel struck out swinging and Brendan Katin popped out, Joe Koshansky two-run homered. Ray Olmedo reached on an error, Eric Farris singled, and Martin Maldonado singled home Olmedo. Sounds starter Chase Wright walked to load the bases and Cain cleared them with a triple. Hopper lined out for the final out of the inning and Cain was stranded at third base.

Trent Oeltjen doubled, advanced to third base on Russ Mitchell's single and scored on Jay Gibbons' single as Albuquerque got on the scoreboard prior to the first rain delay.

After the first rain delay in the 2nd inning, Farris grounded out to plate Katin as the Sounds led 8-1.

Gamel singled home Cain and Hopper scored on a wild pitch in the 3rd inning as Nashville led 10-1.

In the bottom of the 3rd inning, Elian Herrera singled, Mitchell doubled, and John Lindsey was hit by a pitch to load the bases. Gibbons singled home Herrera and Jamie Hoffmann grounded out to bring home Mitchell. Justin Sellers singled home Lindsey as the Isotopes trailed 10-4.

Both clubs put runs on the scoreboard in the 5th inning. In the top half, Katin singled home Hopper and in the bottom half, Hoffmann bunt singled and scored on Lucas May's double. Two outs later, Oeltjen doubled home May.

Maldonado solo homered in the 8th inning for the final run of the game.

Bastardo pitched until the first rain delay, tossing 1 1/3 innings while giving up 6 hits and 8 runs (4 earned).

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x1, .295 AVG
Lucas May: 2x4, 1 R, 1 2B (13), 1 RBI (45), .296 AVG
Josh Lindblom: 3 IP, 4 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 0 BB, 3 K, 0 HR, 6.32 ERA


'TOPES NOTES:
Prentice Redman's 2010 season is over. The Office of the Commissioner of Baseball announced Monday that Redman tested positive a second time for an amphetamine, in violation of the Minor League Drug Prevention and Treatment Program. Redman's first positive test, announced June 25th, carried a 50 game suspension that Redman is currently serving. When that suspension runs out in mid-August, the new 100-game suspension will begin. About 20 games of it will be served to finish out the Isotopes season and the remainer of the suspension will be served in 2011 or later if Redman re-inks a contract to play in Minor League Baseball or Major League Baseball in the future. . . . The Sounds won three out of the four games in the series and 34,234 fans attended the four games for a per-game average of 8,559. Today's game marked the final 2010 regular season matchup between the two clubs and each club won 8 games. Albuquerque went 3-5 at Isotopes Park and 5-3 at Herschel Greer Stadium. All-time, Nashville leads the series 67-59. . . . Of the eight straight games the Isotopes and Sounds just played, each team won 4 games. . . . The first rain delay, in the top of the 2nd inning, lasted 50 minutes. The second rain delay, in the top of the 9th inning after Lorenzo Cain walked, lasted 30 minutes until the game was called. . . . There were a franchise first - the first time Albuquerque has had back to back games completed early due to rain. . . . John Lindsey was hit twice by a pitch in the game, the most for the Isotopes this season and one shy of the franchise/PCL record. . . . Alberto Bastardo's 1 1/3 innings start tied for the shortest Isotope starter outing of the season that wasn't due to injury or planned rehabilitation assignment outing length. . . . Peter Bourjos of the Salt Lake Bees (AAA Angels) is the PCL Hitter of the Week. Bourjos hit .514 (18x35) with 3 homers and 9 RBI during the award week. . . . Greg Holland of the Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) is the PCL Pitcher of the Week. In three relief appearances, Holland tossed 7 innings, struck out 14, and went 1-0 with a 1.29 ERA. . . . The Isotopes open up a four-game series against the Iowa Cubs (AAA Cubs) on Tuesday night at The Lab. Probables are RHP Claudio Vargas (2-4, 5.23) for the Isotopes and RHP Jay Jackson (6-6, 3.70) for the I-Cubs.

Filed 07/26/2010

July 25, 2010 - Isotopes (52-48)

Isotopes Park

Nashville      100 000 1 --   2   5  1
Albuquerque    400 331 3 --  14  14  0

WP: John Ely (4-1)
LP: Chris Waters (5-8)

HR: NSH Joe Koshansky (16) off Ely (7th inning)

    ALB John Lindsey (16) off Waters (1st inning)
    ALB Russ Mitchell (17) off Waters (4th inning)
    ALB Justin Sellers (5) off Lofgren (7th inning)

TIME: 2:17
ATT: 7,177
John Ely allowed two runs and five hits in tossing Albuquerque's first complete game of the season and John Lindsey, Russ Mitchell and Justin Sellers each belted three-run homers in support of Ely as the Isotopes defeated the Nashville Sounds (AAA Brewers) 14-2 to snap a three game losing streak. With the Sounds starter named Chris Waters, it seemed to make sense that the game that was mostly played through light rain would be shortened to 7 innings due to rain.

The Sounds put up a run on the scoreboard in the 1st inning. Lorenzo Cain doubled, took third base on Adam Stern's groundout and scored on Mat Gamel's single.

Albuquerque took the lead that would never be relinquished in their half of the 1st inning. Jamie Hoffmann and Russ Mitchell singled and Lindsey homered. Jay Gibbons doubled, Lucas May and Michael Restovich drew walks to load the bases, and Justin Sellers sacrifice flied out to bring Gibbons home for a 4-1 lead.

The Isotopes reloaded the cannon in the 4th inning. Hoffmann walked, Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled and Mitchell belted a homer to extend the Albuquerque lead to 7-1.

Albuquerque added three more runs in the 5th inning. Sellers walked to lead off the half-inning, Ely reached on an error on a sacrifice bunt and Hoffmann singled home Sellers. DeJesus Jr. walked to load the bags and after Mitchell and Lindsey struck out, Gibbons singled home Ely and Hoffmann.

Restovich walked and scored on Sellers' double in the 6th inning as Albuquerque led 11-1.

Just before the rains came, Joe Koshansky scored Nashville's final run on a solo homer in the 7th inning. In the bottom half of the inning, Gibbons walked with one out, Restovich singled an out later, and Sellers followed with a homer to make it 14-2. Ely grounded out to end the inning, the tarp came on the field, and 30 minutes later the game was called.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x3, 1 R, 1 BB, 1 K, .296 AVG
Lucas May: 0x4, 1 BB, 2 K, .293 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) lost their contest in Memphis on Sunday evening, so Albuquerque pulled to one game back of the Redhawks in the PCL American Conference Southern Division. . . . The Isotopes have had four home rain delays in 2010 and tonight's game was the third regular season home game shortened due to rain in franchise history, with the last two having been against Nashville. Albuquerque has had five total games shortened due to rain in franchise history. . . . Jay Gibbons had his fourth 4-hit game of the season. . . . Lucas May was the only Isotope position player without a hit in the game. . . . John Ely has won his last three Isotope pitching decisions. . . . The series concludes on Monday afternoon, the final day home game of the 2010 season. With a chance of showers in the forecast, the cloud cover will keep the temperatures in the high 70's or low 80's, thus making for an unseasonably cool yet comfortable afternoon to be at the ballpark. Probables are LHP Alberto Bastardo (4-1, 4.24) for the Isotopes and LHP Chase Wright (6-6, 4.25) for the Sounds.

Filed 07/25/2010

July 24, 2010 - Isotopes (51-48)

Isotopes Park

Nashville      400 012 010 --  8  13  1
Albuquerque    000 002 030 --  5   7  1

WP: Josh Butler (1-0)
LP: Seth Etherton (3-3)
SV: Chris Smith (20)

TIME: 2:48
ATT: 12,420
In front of the second largest crowd of the season, the Isotopes found themselves in an early big hole and were unable to come up with enough runs to tie the game in a 8-5 loss to the Nashville Sounds (AAA Brewers) on Saturday night. The Isotopes have dropped three straight games yet were able to make up a half-game -- now two games back -- in the division due to division leader Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) losing both games of their doubleheader.

Nashville quickly took a 4-0 advantage in the 1st inning. Lorenzo Cain singeld, Mat Gamel singled Cain to third base, and Luis Cruz was hit by a pitch to load the bags with two outs. Adam Stern doubled home Cain and Gamel and Eric Farris reached on an error as Cruz and Stern scored.

Norris Hopper doubled and scored on Gamel's double in the 5th inning and in the 6th inning, Stern singled and scored on Farris' triple. Martin Maldonado followed with a single to bring home Farris as the Sounds led 7-0.

Albuquerque was able to get on the scoreboard in their half of the 6th inning. Trent Oeltjen singled and scored on Ivan DeJesus Jr's. triple. Jay Gibbons brought DeJesus Jr. home with a sacrifice flyout as the Isotopes trailed 7-2.

Ray Olmedo singled and scored on Stern's double in the 8th inning for Nashville's final run, and Albuquerque plated their final three runs in the bottom of the 8th inning. DeJesus Jr. singled, pinch-hitter Michael Restovich walked, and Gibbons singled to load the bases with no outs. John Lindsey grounded out to bring home DeJesus Jr. and Jamie Hoffmann lifted a sacrifice flyout to bring home Restovich. A.J. Ellis and Justin Sellers walked to load the bases and Elian Herrera drew another walk to plate Gibbons.

Isotopes starter Seth Etherton was a trooper on the night, going 6 innings to relieve some the workload of the bullpen while allowing 10 hits and 7 runs (5 earned). Etherton walked none and fanned 3.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x5, 2 R, 1 3B (2), 1 RBI (40), 1 K, .296 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The crowd of 12,420 tied for the 32nd largest crowd ever to watch a game or exhibition at Isotopes Park. . . . Tim Corcoran, currently on the Disabled List, appears to be on his way back to rejoin the Isotopes. Corcoran was sent to the rookie-level Arizona League Dodgers on a rehabilitation assignment. He made his first outing Friday, tossing the first inning and walking one and striking out one. . . . The Isotopes have gone an uncharacteristic three games without a homer. . . . In former 'Topes news, the item about Nick Green from a few days ago already has an update. Nick Green was outrighted by the Toronto Blue Jays to the Las Vegas 51s, but Green refused that assignment and became a free agent. Green inked a minor league contract with the San Diego Padres and was sent to Triple-A Portland of the Pacific Coast League. The Isotopes will play against their former teammate, assuming he is still on their roster then, on August 13-16th when they travel for a series to Portland. . . . The series continues on Sunday evening with RHP John Ely (3-1, 3.24) expected to take the mound for Albuquerque looking to be the losing streak stopper. Nashville is expected to counter with LHP Chris Waters (5-7, 4.00).

Filed 07/24/2010

July 23, 2010 - Isotopes (51-47)

Isotopes Park

Nashville      200 601 110 --  11  14  2
Albuquerque    200 015 000 --   8  14  0

WP: Sam Narron (6-3)
LP: Jesus Castillo (1-4)
SV: LaTroy Hawkins (1)

HR: NSH Mat Gamel (6) off Rodriguez (4th inning)
    NSH Mat Gamel (7) off Link (8th inning)

TIME: 3:02
ATT: 9,555
Isotopes starter Jesus Castillo allowed 7 runs in just over 3 1/3 innings and the Isotopes were unable to make a comeback from that early defecit as the Nashville Sounds (AAA Brewers) defeated the Isotopes 11-8 in the series opener on Friday evening at The Lab. Albuquerque has dropped their last two games to the Sounds.

Brendan Katin singled home a run and Luis Cruz lifted a sacrifice fly to bring home another run as the Sounds quickly led 2-0 after a half inning of play.

The Isotopes tied the game at 2-2 in their half of the 1st inning. Trent Oeltjen reached on an error and stole second base. Ivan DeJesus Jr. grounded out to advance Oeltjen to third base and Russ Mitchell singled him home. John Lindsey followed with a double to drive in Mitchell.

The Sounds snapped the tie and put some good breathing room between themselves and the Isotopes in the 4th inning. Luis Cruz singled and Ray Olmedo doubled. Ben Johnson singled Cruz home and Sounds starter Sam Narron sacrifice flied out to bring home Olmedo. Lorenzo Cain singled to put runners on the corners and Norris Hopper singled home Johnson. Jesus Rodriguez entered the game in relief of Castillo and Mat Gamel greeted him with a three-run homer as the Sounds led 8-2.

Justin Sellers doubled and scored on DeJesus Jr.'s single in the 5th inning as Albuquerque chipped away a run at 8-3.

Gamel doubled and scored on Katin's single in the 6th inning as Nashville got that run back, and Albuquerque made a big run of their own in the bottom of the 6th inning. Jamie Hoffmann and Michael Restovich singled and A.J. Ellis tripled them home. Sellers singled home Ellis and then advanced to second base on Isotopes reliever Ramon Troncoso's sacrifice bunt. Oeltjen singled home Sellers, stole second base and scored on Mitchell's single as the Isotopes plated five runs in the frame to trail 9-8.

Nashville added insurance runs in the 7th inning -- Olmedo and Johnson back to back doubles - and Gamel's second homer of the game in the 8th inning.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x5, 1 RBI (39), .294 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
C A.J. Ellis was officially activated for today's game after he was sent down from the Dodgers a few days ago. Ellis was 1x3 with a triple, a run scored, and two RBI. C JD Closser went on the disabled list with a sprained right ankle. . . . The Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) game in Memphis against the Memphis Redbirds (AAA Cardinals) was postponed due to a power outage in downtown Memphis, so the Isotopes loss dropped them a half-game back further (to 2.5 games back) in the division. With the Isotopes having lost their last two games, they have gone from one game back in the division to 2.5 games back. . . . Jesus Castillo made the spot start in place of the scheduled John Ely. . . . A.J. Ellis has a four-game hitting streak dating back to last season. . . . The series continues Saturday evening as Albuquerque hopes to get back into the win column and keep from sinking even further back in the division. Probables are RHP Seth Etherton (3-2, 4.55) for the Isotopes and RHP Josh Butler (No Record) for the Sounds.

Filed 07/23/2010

July 22, 2010 - Isotopes (51-46)

Herschel Greer Stadium

Albuquerque    101 000 000 --  2  5  1
Nashville      000 030 01x --  4  7  0

WP: Marty McLeary (4-6)
LP: Claudio Vargas (2-4)
SV: Chris Smith (19)

TIME: 3:05
ATT: 6,871
The Isotopes were holding onto a 2-0 lead when the Nashville Sounds (AAA Brewers) plated three runs in the 5th inning to take the lead and the Sounds went on to defeat the Isotopes 4-2. Albuquerque snapped a six game winning streak with the loss.

Trent Oeltjen played a part in both of Albuquerque's runs on the night. In the 1st inning, Oeltjen doubled, took third base on a passed ball and scored on Elian Herrera's sacrifice flyout.

In the 3rd inning, Oeltjen tripled and scored on Herrera's single as Albuquerque extended their lead to 2-0.

Nashville finally broke through against Isotopes starter Claudio Vargas in the 5th inning. Ray Olmedo singled and stole second base. Olmedo took third base on pinch-hitter Erick Almonte's groundout and Adam Stern drew a walk to put runners on the corners. Norris Hopper doubled to drive them both in and Hopper stole third base before scoring on Mat Gamel's single as the Sounds led 3-2.

The Sounds picked up an insurance run in the 8th inning when Hopper doubled and later scored on Joe Koshansky's single.

Vargas went five innings, allowing three runs and five hits.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x1, .293 AVG
Lucas May: 0x4, 3 K, .298 AVG
Josh Lindblom: 2 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 0 BB, 3 K, 0 HR, 6.46 ERA


'TOPES NOTES:
The Isotopes loss, combined with the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) winning their contest on Thursday, meant that the Isotopes fell to two games back of the Redhawks in the PCL American Conference Southern Division. . . . The Isotopes took three out of the four games in the series and 18,228 attended at Herschel Greer Stadium for a per-game average of 4,557. Tonight's contest marked the final 2010 regular season matchup in Nashville and the Isotopes won five out of the eight contests. The regular season 16-game series concludes with the four games to be played in Albuquerque starting Friday. . . . Albuquerque had a five game winning streak at Herschel Greer Stadium snapped with tonight's loss. . . . Justin Sellers went hitless to snap an eight-game hitting streak. Russ Mitchell also went hitless to snap his seven-game hitting streak. . . . Albuquerque went homerless in the game, snapping a season-best 11 consecutive game homer streak. . . . The Isotopes and Sounds continue playing each other with the only difference being a new series in a different venue, Isotopes Park. It is not the first time the Isotopes have played the same team in a home and home series. In July 2006, the Isotopes played a home and home series with the New Orleans Zephyrs and in August 2004, the Isotopes and Colorado Springs Sky Sox played a home and home series. Probables in Friday's opener are RHP John Ely (3-1, 3.24) for the Isotopes and LHP Sam Narron (5-3, 2.79) for the Sounds.

Filed 07/22/2010

July 21, 2010 - Isotopes (51-45)

Herschel Greer Stadium

Albuquerque    009 102 200 --  14  18  0
Nashville      100 030 010 --   5  11  0

WP: Charlie Haeger (2-1)
LP: Chase Wright (6-6)

HR: ALB Jay Gibbons (16) off Wright (3rd inning)
    ALB Jay Gibbons (17) off Stetter (6th inning)
    ALB Russ Mitchell (16) off Wright (3rd inning)
    ALB Justin Sellers (4) off Wright (3rd inning)
    ALB John Lindsey (15) off Stetter (6th inning)
    ALB Trent Oeltjen (11) off Wright (3rd inning)

TIME: 2:54
ATT: 3,367
Jay Gibbons hit two homers, part of an Albuquerque season-high six homers in the game, as the Isotopes defeated the Nashville Sounds (AAA Brewers) 14-5 on Wednesday evening. Albuquerque, winners of six straight games, pulled to a game back in the division with the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) losing this evening.

Nashville grabbed a 1-0 lead in the 1st inning. Adam Stern walked, stole second base and scored on Mat Gamel's single.

Albuquerque's batting practice in the 3rd inning gave them the lead and provided all the runs needed to easily defeat the Sounds. Justin Sellers solo homered to start the frame. Isotopes starter Charlie Haeger walked and scored on Trent Oeltjen's homer. Ivan DeJesus Jr. walked and scored on Russ Mitchell's homer. An out later, Jay Gibbons homered as Albuquerque plated their first six runs of the inning using the longball. Jamie Hoffmann, JD Closser, and Justin Sellers singled to load the bases and Haeger helped himself out with a two-run double. After Oeltjen struck out, DeJesus Jr. singled home Sellers as the Isotopes led 9-1.

Lindsey plated Albuquerque's 10th run in the 4th inning. He singled to lead off the inning, took second on Gibbons' groundout, advanced to third on Hoffmann's single and scored on Closser's single.

Norris Hopper had a two run double and Gamel grounded out to bring home a run in the 5th inning as Nashville plated three runs and trailed 10-3.

Back-to-back solo homers from Lindsey and Gibbons in the 6th inning extended Albuquerque's advantage to 12-3 and the Isotopes scored their final two runs in the 7th inning. Russ Mitchell drew a one out walk, Lindsey doubled and Gibbons followed with a two-run double.

Nashville's Ray Olmedo singled home the final run of the game in the 8th inning.

Haeger just missed out on Albuquerque's fifth quality start outing in a row. Haeger allowed four runs in 7 innings. He had great control on the night, walking one, and he struck out 6.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x5, 1 R, 1 RBI (38), 1 BB, 1 K, .294 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The Dodgers made a couple moves involving the Isotopes on Wednesday. They reduced the number of active catchers on their roster from three to the usually deployed two by optioning C A.J. Ellis to Albuquerque. P Jack Taschner (10 relief appearances, 2 saves, 3.60 ERA) had his contract purchased by the Dodgers and hopes to provide some help to the struggling Dodgers bullpen. The Isotopes activated P Juan Perez off the Disabled List. . . . Albuquerque tied a franchise record with most homers in an inning (4). . . . The Isotopes set season highs in winning streak (6 games), the number of games above the .500 mark (6), longest road winning streak (4 games), most runs scored in an inning (9 runs), and total bases (39). . . . John Lindsey and Jay Gibbons were both a triple shy of hitting for the cycle. . . . Russ Mitchell extended his hitting streak to 9 games and he has homered in back to back contests. . . . Justin Sellers has also homered in back to back contests. . . . Albuquerque has four back-to-back homer occurrences in 2010 and the duo of Lindsey and Gibbons account for half of those. . . . In former Isotope news, IF Nick Green, who in June asked for his release from the Dodgers while with Albuquerque and shortly thereafter signed a big league deal with the Blue Jays, finds himself back in the minor leagues as the Blue Jays outrighted him to Triple-A Las Vegas 51s of the PCL. . . . The Nashville portion of the eight consecutive matchups between the Sounds and Isotopes concludes on Thursday evening with Albuquerque looking for the series sweep. Probables are RHP Claudio Vargas (2-3, 5.19) for the Isotopes and former- Isotope RHP Marty McLeary (3-6, 8.72) for the Sounds.

Filed 07/21/2010

July 20, 2010 - Isotopes (50-45)

Herschel Greer Stadium

Albuquerque    620 100 000 --  9  6  4
Nashville      300 000 022 --  7  8  1

WP: Alberto Bastardo (4-1)
LP: Chris Waters (5-7)

HR: ALB Justin Sellers (3) off Waters (1st inning)
    ALB Russ Mitchell (15) off Johnson (2nd inning)
    ALB Ivan DeJesus Jr. (4) off Johnson (4th inning)

    NSH Mat Gamel (5) off Wade (9th inning)

TIME: 2:55
ATT: 4,002
The Isotopes plated six runs in the 1st inning on only one hit and the generosity of Nashville Sounds (AAA Brewers) pitching and the Isotopes bullpen was able to hold off a late Sounds charge as the Isotopes extended their winning streak to five games with a 9-7 victory.

In that big 1st inning with Nashville's Chris Waters on the mound, Ivan DeJesus Jr., Russ Mitchell, and John Lindsey all walked with one out. Jay Gibbons sacrifice flied out to drive in DeJesus Jr. and Jamie Hoffmann drew a walk to reload the bags. Lucas May walked to bring home Mitchell and an error on a pickoff play allowed Lindsey and Hoffmann to score. Justin Sellers followed with a two-run homer to give Albuquerque a 6-0 lead.

Isotopes starter Alberto Bastardo's only blemish on the scoreboard happened in the home half of the 1st inning when his teammates failed him defensively. Norris Hopper got things started by reaching on a fielding error but was erased from the basepaths when Adam Stern reached on a fielder's choice. A wild pitch moved Stern to second base and Mat Gamel reached on an error to put runners on the corners. Brendan Katin reached on another error as Stern scored. A passed ball allowed Gamel to score and Ray Olmedo singled home Katin.

Waters did not answer the bell for the 2nd inning when the Isotopes added to their lead. DeJesus Jr. singled with one out and scored on Mitchell's homer.

DeJesus Jr. solo homered in the 4th inning as Albuquerque led 9-3.

The Sounds started their late game charge in the 8th inning when Olmedo and Ben Johnson had run-scoring singles.

Hopper reached on a fielder's choice and scored on Gamel's two-run homer with two outs in the 9th inning before Katin popped out to end the game and the Isotopes bullpen avoided giving up the lead in the 9th frame for the second night in a row.

Bastardo continued the Isotope pitching quality start streak, now at four games. In 6 innings, Bastardo allowed 3 runs (none earned) and 4 hits while walking none and fanning 4.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x4, 3 R, 1 HR (4), 1 RBI (37), 1 BB, 1 K, .295 AVG
Lucas May: 0x3, 1 R, 1 RBI (44), 1 BB, 1 K, .302 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The Dodgers recalled C Brad Ausmus from his rehabilitation assignment and activated him on the big league roster when Manny Ramirez headed back to the disabled list. . . . The Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) were swept in a doubleheader on Tuesday evening. Combined with Albuquerque's victory, the Isotopes went from 3.5 games back of the Redhawks at the start of the night to 2 games back of the Redhawks at the end of the night. . . . The five game winning streak is Albuquerque's longest of the season and the five games above .500 ties a season-best high water mark. . . . Albuquerque tied a season-worst with four errors in the game and the Isotopes are 1-3 in games with four errors. Justin Sellers had two of those errors and he has had a two-error game three times so far in 2010. . . . Jamie Hoffmann and Trent Oeltjen each went hitless in 3 at-bats to snap their 10 game hitting streaks. Russ Mitchell hit safely to extend his streak to 8 games, the new current longest Isotope hitting streak, with Sellers at 7 games right on his heels. . . . The Isotopes have homered in 10 straight games, tying a season high. . . . The Isotopes hope to continue their hot streak on Wednesday evening, riding the arm of knuckleballer RHP Charlie Haeger (1-1, 4.94). The Sounds are expected to counter with LHP Chase Wright (6-5, 3.56).

Filed 07/20/2010

July 19, 2010 - Isotopes (49-45)

Herschel Greer Stadium

Albuquerque    001 021 110 000 1 --  7  11  1
Nashville      100 000 014 000 0 --  6  11  1

WP: Jesus Castillo (1-3)
LP: Tim Dillard (2-5)
SV: Jack Taschner (2)

HR: ALB Jamie Hoffmann (5) off Lofgren (6th inning)

    NSH Johnny Raburn (3) off Dohmann (9th inning)

TIME: 4:20
ATT: 3,988
Trent Oeltjen grounded out to bring home Justin Sellers in the bottom of the 13th inning as the Isotopes defeated the Nashville Sounds (AAA Brewers) 7-6 in the series opener in Nashville on Monday evening. The Isotopes have won their last four contests.

Consecutive singles from Adam Stern, Norris Hopper an Mat Gamel in the 1st inning brought Stern home with the first run of the game.

The Isotopes tied the game at 1-1 in the 3rd inning. Isotopes starter Seth Etherton and Russ Mitchell walked and John Lindsey singled home Etherton.

In the 5th inning, Etherton singled and scored on Oeltjen's triple. Ivan DeJesus Jr. followed with a sacrifice flyout to bring in Oeltjen as the Isotopes led 3-1.

Jamie Hoffmann solo homered in the 6th inning, Oeltjen walked and later scored on Lindsey's groundout in the 7th inning, and Michael Restovich scored during Jay Gibbons' grounding into a double play in the 8th inning as the Isotopes built their lead to 6-1.

Nashville got to the Isotopes bullpen starting in the 8th inning when Stern reached on a fielder's choice, advanced to third base on Hopper's double and scored on Gamel's groundout.

The Sounds completed their comeback with four runs in the 9th inning. Joe Koshansky doubled and an out later, pinch-hitter Erick Almonte singled. A throwing error on a pickoff attempt allowed Koshansky to score and Almonte to advance to third base. Martin Maldonado singled home Almonte and former Isotope Johnny Raburn two-run homered to tie the game at 6-6.

Jesus Castillo, fresh off the disabled list, was a savior for the Isotopes, tossing 3 1/3 scoreless innings, including working out of a bases-loaded jam in the 12th inning. Castillo was rewarded for his effort when Sellers doubled to lead off the 13th inning, JD Closser laid down a sacrifice bunt to move Sellers to third base, and Oeltjen got him home with a groundout as the eventual game-winning run. The run gave Castillo his first Triple-A victory.

Etherton had a quality start, allowing a run and 4 hits in 6 innings.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x4, 1 RBI (36), 2 BB, .293 AVG
Lucas May: 0x6, 6 K, .306 AVG
Josh Lindblom: 1 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 2 K, 0 HR, 6.52 ERA


'TOPES NOTES:
The Isotopes pitching staff got a slight makeover on Monday. The Dodgers recalled P James McDonald to make the start against the Giants Monday evening and they optioned P Jon Link back to Albuquerque. P Jesus Castillo was activated from the Disabled List and P Kiko Calero was released. . . . It was a rough night for Lucas May. He didn't turn a hat trick, sombrero, or golden sombrero. He did worse that that by turning in a horn. May struck out a franchise record 6 times in the contest. . . . The four game winning streak ties for the longest winning streak of the season. . . . The Isotopes have played in 13 extra inning contests, the most out of any season in franchise history. Albuquerque has also won the most extra inning games in a season (8) with their 8-5 record. . . . Albuquerque has won their last three contests against the Sounds at Herschel Greer Stadium. . . . Trent Oeltjen and Jamie Hoffmann each hit safely to extend their hitting streaks to 10 games. . . . Isotope batters struck out 14 times, tying a season high. . . . The 4 hour, 20 minute marathon was the longest road contest, time wise, in franchise history. . . . Cole Garner of the Colorado Springs Sky Sox (AAA Rockies) is the PCL Hitter of the Week. Garner hit .571 (8x14) with 2 homers and 5 RBI during the abbreviated award week. . . . Former-Isotope Gaby Hernandez of the Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) is the PCL Pitcher of the Week. Hernandez made one start during the week and allowed 4 hits and 1 run in 6 2/3 innings while fanning 11. Hernandez won the start and established his weekly ERA at 1.35. . . . The series continues Tuesday evening. Probables are LHP Alberto Bastardo (3-1, 4.87) for the Isotopes and LHP Chris Waters (5-6, 3.48) for the Sounds.

Filed 07/19/2010

July 18, 2010 - Isotopes (48-45)

Isotopes Park

Round Rock     100 002 000 --  3   5  2
Albuquerque    100 022 03x --  8  12  1

WP: John Ely (3-1)
LP: Shane Loux (2-8)
SV: Cory Wade (2)

HR: RR Collin DeLome (8) off Ely (6th inning)

    ALB Trent Oeltjen (10) off Loux (1st inning)
    ALB Russ Mitchell (14) off Loux (6th inning)

TIME: 2:26
ATT: 6,773
In John Ely's first start since being sent by the Dodgers back to Triple-A, Ely turned in a quality start as the Isotopes defeated the Round Rock Express (AAA Astros) 8-3 in the series finale Sunday evening at "The Lab". Albuquerque has won their last three games.

Ely gave up a first inning run when Round Rock's Tommy Everidge singled home Wladimir Sutil.

Trent Oeltjen belted Albuquerque's first leadoff homer of the season as the Isotopes did not take long to knot the game at 1-1.

The game remained tied until the 5th inning when Albuquerque grabbed the lead for the first time in the game. With two outs, Ely singled, Oeltjen ground-rule doubled and Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled them home for a 3-1 lead.

Collin DeLome's solo homer and Matt Kata's run-scoring fielders choice allowed Round Rock to tie the game at 3-3 in the 6th inning.

Albuquerque regained the lead in their half of the 6th inning when Russ Mitchell solo homered. Elian Herrera tripled and scored on Justin Sellers' single as the Isotopes led 5-3.

Albuquerque added insurance runs in the 8th inning. Jamie Hoffmann doubled, Herrera singled and a wild pitch brought Hoffmann home. Sellers singled home Herrera and a throwing error on the play allowed Sellers to get into scoring position. Isotopes reliever Cory Wade laid down a sacrifice bunt to get Sellers to third base and Oeltjen grounded out to plate Sellers.

Ely allowed three runs and 5 hits in 7 innings. He walked one and fanned 4.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x5, 2 RBI (35), .296 AVG
DODGERS Rehab Report

Brad Ausmus: 0x4, 1 K, .125 AVG

Ausmus played the whole game Sunday in what is expected to be his last rehabilitation assignment outing.

Ausmus grounded out to the pitcher in the 1st inning, struck out swinging in the 3rd inning, reached on a throwing error in the 5th inning, and flied out to left field in the 7th inning

In four rehab games with Albuquerque, Ausmus went 1x8 (.125) with a single and two strikeouts.

'TOPES NOTES:
Albuquerque won the series by taking three out of the four games and a four-game series season-best 38,093 fans came through the Isotopes Park turnstiles for a per-game average of 9,523. Tonight's game marked the final regular season game between the Isotopes and Express at Isotopes Park and the Isotopes won six out of the eight matchups. Albuquerque travels to Round Rock over the Labor Day holiday weekend for a four-game series to close out the 16-game regular season series. . . . Trent Oeltjen and Jamie Hoffmann each hit safely to extend their hitting streaks to 9 games. . . . Oeltjen has homered in the last two contests he's appeared in. Tonight, he had three hits and was a triple shy of hitting for the cycle. . . . Russ Mitchell has homered in three out of his last five contests. . . . Albuquerque travels to Nashville for the first of eight games in an unusual home and home series starting Monday evening with the Nashville Sounds (AAA Brewers). The Isotopes have yet to name a probable (as James McDonald is rumored to be called up and start for the Dodgers) and the Sounds are expected to counter with LHP Chuck Lofgren (7-5, 4.74).

Filed 07/18/2010

July 17, 2010 - Isotopes (47-45)

Isotopes Park

Round Rock     000 000 000 --  0   5  1
Albuquerque    020 000 10x --  3  10  0

WP: Claudio Vargas (2-3)
LP: Andy Van Hekken (6-6)
SV: Ramon Troncoso (1)

HR: ALB Jay Gibbons (15) off Van Hekken (2nd inning) 

TIME: 2:12
ATT: 11,570
Claudio Vargas tossed seven scoreless innings and Ramon Troncoso added two more scoreless innings to complete a 3-0 shutout of the Round Rock Express (AAA Astros) on Saturday evening during Dukes Retro Night at Isotopes Park.

In the 2nd inning, Jay Gibbons solo homered to right field to lead off the half-inning. Two outs later, Justin Sellers singled and scored on Isotopes starter Vargas' double as the Isotopes led 2-0.

Lucas May legged out a one-out triple in the 7th inning and scored on Ivan DeJesus Jr.'s sacrifice flyout to close out the scoring in the game.



DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x3, 1 RBI (33), Sac Fly, 2 K, .295 AVG
Lucas May: 1x3, 1 R, 1 3B (3), .314 AVG

DODGERS Rehab Report

Brad Ausmus: 1x1, .250 AVG

Ausmus once again played one inning as he continued his rehabilitation assignment. Ausmus got his first hit as an Isotope, a single, in the 1st inning and made it as far as second base on Russ Mitchell's single before being left-on-base on an inning-ending double play.

If all goes as reported, Ausmus is expected to catch the entire game on Sunday and then be activated with the Dodgers.

'TOPES NOTES:
Albuquerque has won their last two contests and they are starting to make up some ground in the division. With their two wins and the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) losing their last two contests, Albuquerque pulled to 3.5 games back of the Redhawks in the PCL American Conference Southern Division tonight. . . . The Isotopes are 5-1 in Dukes retro night contests and 11,570 fans attended, the most ever for a night when the Isotopes wear the throwback Dukes uniforms. . . . Inducted into the Albuquerque Professional Baseball Hall of Fame before the game was Charlie Blaney (Dukes GM), Mike Roberts (Dukes and Isotopes broadcaster), Jack Perconte (Dukes infielder) and Joe Simpson (Dukes outfielder). . . . The retro Dukes uniforms were auctioned off, raising around $3,800 for the Carrie Tingley Hospital. The top bid getter was Brad Ausmus' jersey at $550. . . . Albuquerque pitching has five shutouts on the season, including three at Isotopes Park. All shutouts were combined efforts. . . . Jay Gibbons has homered in back to back contests. . . . Jamie Hoffmann extended his hitting streak to 8 games, tied for the current longest hitting streak with Trent Oeltjen who did not play tonight. . . . The 2 hour, 12 minute contest tied for Albuquerque's shortest 9-inning home game of the season. . . . The quick four-game homestand against the Express ends on Sunday evening. Probables are RHP John Ely (2-1, 3.00) looking to get back on track after struggling recently with the Dodgers and RHP Shane Loux (2-7, 7.23) for the Express.

Filed 07/17/2010

July 16, 2010 - Isotopes (46-45)

Isotopes Park

Round Rock     301 023 112 --  13  19  2
Albuquerque    050 140 15x --  16  20  1

WP: Scott Dohmann (1-2)
LP: Roy Corcoran (1-10)
SV: Cory Wade (1)

HR: RR Wladimir Sutil (1) off Rodriguez (6th inning)
    RR Edwin Maysonet (1) off Haeger (5th inning)
    RR Collin DeLome (6) off Taschner (6th inning)
    RR Collin DeLome (7) off Dohmann (9th inning)

    ALB Justin Sellers (2) off Perez (2nd inning)
    ALB Trent Oeltjen (9) off Perez (2nd inning)
    ALB Jay Gibbons (14) off Corcoran (8th inning)

TIME: 3:44
ATT: 10,799
Combining for 29 runs and 39 hits takes a long time. In Albuquerque's longest 9-inning game of the season at 3 hours, 44 minutes, Justin Sellers grand-slam homered and drove in five runs and Albuquerque plated five runs in the 8th inning to snap a 11-11 tie en route to a 16-13 slugfest victory over the Round Rock Express (AAA Astros).

Round Rock was off and running in the 1st inning. Ramon Vazquez and Edwin Maysonet each singled home a run and Yordany Ramirez drew a bases loaded walk to bring home another run as the Express led 3-0.

Albuquerque took over the lead in the 2nd inning. Jay Gibbons, John Lindsey and Russ Mitchell singled to load the bags. After Jamie Hoffmann struck out, Sellers unloaded his grand-slam homer to left-center field. An out later, Trent Oeltjen solo homered as Albuquerque led 5-3.

Ramirez drove in a run with a sacrifice fly in the 3rd inning for the Express and in the 4th inning, Albuquerque got that run back when Hoffmann singled, advanced to third base on Sellers' double, and scored on Oeltjen's groundout.

Andrew Locke singled and scored on Maysonet's homer in the 5th inning as the Express tied the game at 6-6.

Albuquerque did not waste any time reclaiming the lead at 10-6. In their half of the 5th inning, Lucas May singled, Gibbons walked and Lindsey flew out with May tagging up to third base. Mitchell singled home May and Hoffmann singled to load the bases. Pinch-hitter Michael Restovich reached on a throwing error and made it all the way to third base on a second throwing error on the play as the bags were cleared. Oeltjen grounded out to strand Restovich at third base.

In the 6th inning, German Duran singled and scored on Wladimir Sutil's homer. Collin DeLome followed with an inside-the-park homer as the Express edged to a run down at 10-9. The Express tied the game in the 7th inning when Sutil singled home Brian Esposito.

Lindsey doubled and came around to score on singles from Mitchell and Hoffmann in the 7th inning as the Isotopes regained the lead only to see the game get tied again in the 8th inning when Esposito doubled home a run.

The Isotopes took the lead and put the game away in the 8th inning. May singled and scored on Gibbons' homer. An out later, Mitchell and Hoffmann singled and Sellers doubled home Mitchell. Elian Herrera followed with a two run single to drive in Hoffmann and Sellers as the Isotopes led 16-11.

Sutil walked and scored on DeLome's homer in the 9th inning as the Express were only able to rally for two runs.

Charlie Haeger started for Albuquerque and allowed 6 runs (5 earned) in 5 innings. Round Rock starter Sergio Perez had an uglier pitching line, allowing 10 runs (7 earned) in 5 innings.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x5, .294 AVG
Lucas May: 2x4, 2 R, .314 AVG
Josh Lindblom: (BS, 2), 1 IP, 3 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 1 BB, 2 K, 0 HR, 6.62 ERA

DODGERS Rehab Report

Brad Ausmus: 0x1, .000 AVG

Ausmus was scheduled to catch one inning and he did just that, catching the 1st inning and going to the plate for one at-bat, a groundout to shortstop.

'TOPES NOTES:
The Dodgers named their Dodger Pride award winners for the month of June. For the Triple-A level, pitcher Alberto Bastardo and catcher Lucas May were the winners. Bastardo went 3-0 with a 3.12 ERA (9 earned runs in 26 innings pitched) during the month of June. May hit .341 (29x85) with 7 homers and 23 RBI during the month. . . . The Isotopes have been around as a franchise for the greater part of eight seasons and history still gets made from time to time. Collin DeLome's 6th inning homer was the first Isotope opponent inside-the-park homer in franchise history. For comparison, the Isotopes have had ten inside-the-park homers in franchise history. . . . The Isotopes are 14-2 when they score 10 runs or more in a game. . . . Albuquerque set season highs in most runs scored at home (16), most combined runs in a game (29), and most combined hits in a game (39). . . . Season highs were tied in most runs scored in a game (16), combined homers in a game (7), and most Isotope homers in an inning (2). . . . Russ Mitchell and Jamie Hoffmann had their first four-hit games of the season. . . . Hitting streaks extended in the game were Trent Oeltjen (8 games) and Hoffmann (7 games). . . . Justin Sellers' grand slam homer was Albuquerque's fourth grand slam of the season. . . . The series continues on Saturday evening on Dukes Retro Night/Albuquerque Professional Baseball Hall of Fame induction night. Probables are RHP Claudio Vargas (1-3, 7.11) for the Isotopes and pitcher to be named for the Express.

Filed 07/16/2010

July 15, 2010 - Isotopes (45-45)

Isotopes Park

Round Rock     000 200 220 1 --  7  10  1
Albuquerque    000 101 022 0 --  6  10  0

WP: Gary Majewski (3-2)
LP: Ramon Troncoso (0-2)

HR: RR Tommy Everidge (11) off Troncoso (10th inning)
    RR Edwin Bellorin (1) off Bastardo (7th inning)

    ALB Russ Mitchell (13) off Wright (4th inning)
    ALB Ivan DeJesus Jr. (3) off Wright (6th inning)

TIME: 3:04
ATT: 8,951
After the Isotopes rallied to tie the game in the bottom of the 9th inning, Round Rock Express (AAA Astros) batter Tommy Everidge solo homered in the 10th inning as the Isotopes returned from their All-Star Break with a 7-6 defeat to the Express. Albuquerque has dropped back to the .500 mark for the season and is a season-worst 5.5 games out of the division lead.

In the 4th inning, Andrew Locke singled home two runs as the Express took a 2-0 lead.

Albuquerque tied the game at 2-2 on a pair of solo homers -- Russ Mitchell in the 4th inning and Ivan DeJesus Jr. in the 6th inning.

Round Rock regained the lead in the 7th inning when Edwin Maysonet singled and scored on Edwin Bellorin's homer.

The Express extended their lead to four runs at 6-2 in the 8th inning when Maysonet doubled home two runs.

Albuquerque began their comeback in their half of the 8th inning. JD Closser singled to lead off the half-inning, DeJesus Jr. doubled and Russ Mitchell reached on a fielder's choice with Closser out at home plate. Mitchell advanced to second base on the throw to put both runners back into scoring position. DeJesus Jr. scored on John Lindsey's groundout and Jamie Hoffmann singled home Mitchell.

The Isotopes completed their comeback in the 9th inning. Trent Oeltjen singled and two flyouts later, pinch-hitter Elian Herrera reached on a fielding error with Oeltjen scoring. Herrera ended up on third base after the error and scored on DeJesus Jr.'s single to tie the game at 6-6.

The Isotopes got two outs in the 10th inning before Everidge homered for the eventual game-winning run and the Isotopes went down in order in their half of the 10th inning to end the game.

Isotopes starter Alberto Bastardo allowed 4 runs and 8 hits in 7 innings. He walked none and fanned 5 Express batters.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 3x5, 2 R, 1 2B (22), 1 HR (3), 2 RBI (32), .296 AVG
Lucas May: 0x1, .310 AVG
Josh Lindblom: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 2 K, 0 HR, 6.58 ERA
DODGERS Rehab Report

Brad Ausmus: 0x2, 1 K, .000 AVG

Ausmus made his first rehab appearance for the Isotopes and was called out on strikes in the 1st inning and grounded out to first base in the 3rd inning. In the field, Ausmus caught five innings.

'TOPES NOTES:
Xavier Paul is staying in Los Angeles, at least for now. When the Dodgers activated Manny Ramirez on Thursday, many would have expected Paul to return to Albuquerque. Paul got a reprieve when the Dodgers instead placed Reed Johnson on the Disabled List. Despite no transaction involving Paul, there was an Isotope transaction anyway today. C Brad Ausmus was transferred from Class-A Inland Empire to Albuquerque as he continues his rehabilitation assignment. Ausmus is recovering from back surgery that he had in April. . . . The Isotopes drew their 300,000th Isotopes Park fan (304,325) for the 2010 season in their 40th home gate. . . . Russ Mitchell has homered in back to back games. Mitchell's homer was Albuqueque's 100th homer of the season, and Ivan DeJesus Jr. added team season homer 101 later in the game. . . . Pete Bourjos of the Salt Lake Bees (AAA Angels) is the PCL Hitter of the Week. Bourjos hit .483 (14x29) with no homers and 7 RBI during the award week. . . . Fernando Salas of the Memphis Redbirds (AAA Cardinals) is the PCL Pitcher of the Week. Salas, a PCL All-Star, made three relief appearances for the week, tossed 4 2/3 scoreless innings and allowed a hit, a walk, and fanned 9. Salas earned the save in all three appearances. . . . Probables for Friday evening's matchup are knuckleballer RHP Charlie Haeger (1-1, 3.86) for the Isotopes and RHP Sergio Perez (3-3, 4.47) for the E-train.

Filed 07/15/2010

July 14, 2010 - Triple-A All-Star Game

Coca-Cola Park

Pacific Coast League    010 000 000 --  1  5  0
International League    000 002 00x --  2  5  0

WP: Anthony Slama (Rochester - Twins)
LP: Josh Banks (Round Rock - Astros)
SV: Jonathan Albaladejo (Scranton Wilkes-Barre- Yankees)

TIME: 2:22
ATT: 10,000
The International League plated two runs in the 6th inning to come from behind to defeat the Pacific Coast League in the 2010 Triple-A All Star Game, held at Coca-Cola Park in Allentown, Pennsylvania.

In the 2nd inning, Matt Miller (Colorado Springs - Rockies) singled up the middle, advanced to second base when Mark Trumbo (Salt Lake - Angels) drew a walk, and scored on Darwin Barney's (Iowa - Cubs) single to center as the PCL led 1-0.

The IL scored the game tying and go-ahead runs in the 6th inning. Chris Valaika (Louisville - Reds) doubled down the left field line to lead off the inning and after a flyout, former-Isotope Chase Lambin (Syracuse - Nationals) doubled to right-center field to drive in Valaika. Elliot Johnson (Durham - Rays) singled into left field to bring home Lambin. Lambin would have been out by a mile at home plate had PCL catcher Josh Donaldson (Sacramento - Athletics) been able to hold onto the the throw from left field. Lambin's run proved to be the game-winning run in a night dominated by pitchers.


ALL-STAR NOTES:
Three Isotopes appeared in the game and went a combined 1x7 with a single and three strikeouts. Jay Gibbons played the whole game in right field and went 0x4 with a strikeout. Gibbons grounded out to second base in the 2nd inning, flew out to second base in the 4th inning, flew out to center in the 6th inning and struck out in the 8th inning. John Lindsey was named a starter at DH but did not start for whatever reason. Lindsey entered the game in the 5th inning as DH and struck out on the 14th pitch of the at-bat. Lindsey later singled on the fourth pitch of the 8th inning. Lucas May had one at-bat in the 8th inning as catcher and struck out on three pitches. The best part for an Isotope fan in the game had to be in the 8th inning when Lindsey, May and Gibbons came to the plate consecutively. . . . The International League has won 6 out of the last 8 Triple-A All-Star games, including the last two in a row. All-time in the IL vs PCL format, the IL holds a 7-6 advantage over the PCL. . . . The IL was no-hit for four innings until Andy Tracy (Lehigh Valley - Phillies) singled to lead off the 5th inning. . . . Erik Kratz (Indianapolis - Pirates), the IL catcher, caught for 3 innings, flew out in one at-bat and learned mid-game that the Pirates were bringing him up to the big leagues. . . . The IL Top Star was Chase Lambin (Syracuse - Nationals). Lambin went 1x3 with a run scoring double and a run scored. . . . The PCL Top Star was Thomas Diamond (Iowa - Cubs). Diamond started for the PCL and pitched two scoreless innings while walking two, fanning two, and inducing a double play groundball. . . . In the Home Run Derby on Monday evening, delayed an hour and 40 minutes due to rain, Jay Gibbons failed out make it out of the first round after going homerless. The winner was Dan Johnson (Durham - Rays) who defeated hometown favorite Andy Tracy (Lehigh Valley - Phillies) in a tiebreaker after each hit 10 homers in the final round.

Filed 07/14/2010

July 11, 2010 - Isotopes (45-44)

Rosenblatt Stadium

Albuquerque    000 200 000 --  2  10  1
Omaha          000 001 000 --  1   5  1

WP: James McDonald (6-1)
LP: Bryan Bullington (6-2)
SV: Scott Dohmann (10)

HR: ALB Russ Mitchell (12) off Bullington (4th inning)

TIME: 2:37
ATT: 3,710
James McDonald allowed a run and 4 hits in 6 1/3 innings and Russ Mitchell homered as the Isotopes headed into the Triple-A All-Star Break with a 2-1 victory over the Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) in the series finale Sunday afternoon in Omaha.

In the 4th inning, Russ Mitchell got the Isotopes on the scoreboard with a inning-leadoff homer. Jay Gibbons followed with a double and came around to score on Elian Herrera's single.

McDonald's only blemish on the scoreboard came in the 6th inning when former-Isotope Jai Miller doubled, advanced to third base on Ed Lucas' groundout, and scored on Jordan Parraz's groundout.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x3, .291 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
The Dodgers optioned a struggling P John Ely to Albuquerque on Sunday and recalled P Jon Link. This leaves the Dodgers a starter short, but because of the major league All-Star Break a starter is not needed until July 19th and P James McDonald seems to be the favorite to get a call for that rotation spot. . . . Today's contest was the Isotopes and Royals final regular season matchup. In the season series, Omaha won 9 of the 16 games (Albuquerque went 3-5 at Isotopes Park, 4-4 in Omaha). For the just-completed series, Omaha won three of the five games and 22,428 attended for a per-game average of 5,607. All-time, Albuquerque holds a 73-55 advantage over the Royals. . . . Today also marked Albuquerque's final game at famed Rosenblatt Stadium and the Isotopes went 37-27 at that park. Omaha moves to Sarpy ballpark in 2011. . . . At the All-Star Break, the Isotopes went over the .500 mark with today's victory. Their 45-44 record matches last year's record at the All-Star Break and hopefully this year's Isotopes can find the same post All-Star break magic and make a run to another division title. . . . The Isotopes trail the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) by 4.5 games in the PCL American Conference Southern Division. . . . John Lindsey had two hits in the game, but none of the hits were homers so his consecutive-game homer streak ends at three games. . . . James McDonald has won his last five pitching decisions. . . . After the next three days off for the Triple-A All Star Break, the Isotopes return to action at The Lab against the Round Rock Express (AAA Astros) in a four-game series starting on Thursday night. No probables have been announced.

Filed 07/11/2010

July 10, 2010 - Isotopes (44-44)

Rosenblatt Stadium

Albuquerque    000 100 000 --   1   8  2
Omaha          410 503 00x --  13  16  1

WP: Manauris Baez (2-1)
LP: Alberto Bastardo (3-1)

HR: ALB John Lindsey (14) off Baez (4th inning)

    OMA Alex Gordon (13) off Bastardo (1st inning)
    OMA Jordan Parraz (8) off Bastardo (1st inning)
    OMA Jai Miller (11) off Wade (6th inning)

TIME: 3:00
ATT: 5,085
Alberto Bastardo had his worst game in an Isotopes suit on Saturday evening. In 3 innings, Bastardo allowed 10 runs (7 earned) and 9 hits as the Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) crushed the Isotopes 13-1.

Omaha powered their way to a 4-0 lead in the 1st inning. Alex Gordon solo homered with one out, Scott Thorman was hit by a pitch, Ed Lucas singled, and Jordan Parraz three-run homered.

Kila Kaaihue drew a bases-loaded walk in the 2nd inning as Omaha extended the lead to 5-0.

John Lindsey solo homered in the 4th inning for the lone Isotope highlight of the game.

Omaha continued to pour it on the 4th inning by putting up 5 runs to lead 10-1 and the Royals scored their final three runs in the 6th inning. Parraz singled and scored on former-Isotope Jai Miller's two run homer. Manuel Pina doubled and later scored on Gordon's single.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x4, 2 K, .294 AVG
Lucas May: 0x4, 1 K, .312 AVG
Josh Lindblom: 2 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 2 BB, 1 K, 0 HR, 6.68 ERA


'TOPES NOTES:
The Isotopes are the .500 mark for the first time since June 28th. . . . Albuquerque set season highs in most runs allowed in a road game (13) and largest losing margin in a road game (12 runs). . . . John Lindsey has homered in his last three contests, tying an Isotope season high set by Michael Restovich in June. Lindsey has four homers in those three games. . . . Trent Oeltjen has hit safely in all five games he has appeared in for the Isotopes so far. . . . The Isotopes will accomplish three things against the Royals on Sunday afternoon. With tonight's loss, the Isotopes won't be able to win the series so that is not on the table. The Isotopes will say goodbye to Rosenblatt Stadium (Omaha is moving to Sarpy ballpark next season), the Isotopes and Royals will play the final of their regular season 16-game series, and the Isotopes will play their final game before a three-day All-Star break. Probables in the series finale if the forecasted scattered thunderstorms hold off are RHP James McDonald (5-1, 4.74) for the Isotopes and RHP Bryan Bullington (6-1, 2.85) for the Royals.

Filed 07/10/2010

July 9, 2010 - DH2 - Isotopes (44-43)

Rosenblatt Stadium

Albuquerque    010 110 0 --  3  7  0
Omaha          000 211 x --  4  6  0

WP: Matt Herges (4-3)
LP: Ramon Troncoso (0-1)

HR: ALB John Lindsey (12) off Castaneda (2nd inning)
    ALB John Lindsey (13) off Castaneda (4th inning)

    OMA Jai Miller (10) off Troncoso (6th inning)

TIME: 2:00
ATT: 7,547
John Lindsey homered twice, but it was not enough as former-Isotope Jai Miller homered in the 6th inning for the eventual go-ahead run as the Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) defeated the Isotopes 4-3 in the nightcap of a doubleheader to avoid the doubleheader sweep.

Lindsey solo homered in the 2nd and 4th innings as the Isotopes led 2-0.

The Royals got to Isotopes knuckleballer Charlie Haeger in the bottom of the 4th inning. Alex Gordon doubled and scored on Scott Thorman's single. Miller singled Thorman to second base, Thorman tagged up and advanced to third base on Jordan Parraz's flyout, and scored on a wild pitch to tie the game at 2-2.

Each team swapped runs in the 5th inning. JD Closser singled, Justin Sellers laid down a sacrifice bunt to move Closser into scoring position and Trent Oeltjen doubled him home. For the Royals, Marc Maddox singled, took second base on Cody Clark's sacrifice bunt, and advanced to third base and home on wild pitches.

Miller's solo homer to lead off the bottom of the 6th inning ended up being the game-winning run.

Haeger went 5 innings and allowed 3 runs and 5 hits. Haeger walked 2 and struck out 6 and had three wild pitches.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x2, 1 BB, 1 K, .298 AVG
Lucas May: 0x1, .317 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
It would seem Friday was doubleheader day in the Pacific Coast League. Three of the eight matchups in the league were doubleheaders. The Isotopes and Royals split, the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) and Iowa Cubs (AAA Cubs) split, while the Nashville Sounds (AAA Brewers) swept the Memphis Redbirds (AAA Cardinals). . . . John Lindsey has homered in back to back games -- both games of today's doubleheader. . . . The Isotopes are 3-2 in doubleheader games so far in 2010. . . . Albuquerque is 12-15 in one run contests in 2010. . . . The Isotopes are currently 4.5 games back of the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) in the PCL American Conference Southern Division, tying the season mark for the most games out of the division lead. . . . The series continues on Saturday evening. Probables are LHP Alberto Bastardo (3-0, 3.23) for the Isotopes and RHP Manauris Baez (1-1, 4.79) for the Royals.

Filed 07/09/2010

July 9, 2010 - DH1 - Isotopes (44-42)

Rosenblatt Stadium

Albuquerque    013 022 0 --  8  13  0
Omaha          000 210 1 --  4   6  2

WP: Seth Etherton (3-2)
LP: Philip Humber (4-5)

HR: ALB John Lindsey (11) off Humber (2nd inning)
    ALB Jay Gibbons (13) off Humber (3rd inning)

    OMA Kila Kaaihue (18) off Etherton (4th inning)

TIME: 2:10
John Lindsey and Jay Gibbons each homered and they both combined to drive in five runs as the Isotopes defeated the Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) 8-4 in the opener of a doubleheader on Friday afternoon.

Lindsey solo homered in the 2nd inning and in the 3rd inning, Ivan DeJesus Jr. reached on a fielder's choice, Russ Mitchell walked, and Gibbons three-run homered as the Isotopes led 4-0.

Alex Gordon singled and scored on Kila Kaaihue's two-run homer in the bottom of the 4th inning as the Royals halved the defecit at 4-2.

The Isotopes got those runs back in the 5th inning. DeJesus Jr. singled, took second base on Mitchell's single, tagged up to third base on Gibbons' flyout, and scored on Lindsey's double. Lucas May was hit by a pitch to put runners on the corners and Jamie Hoffmann reached on an error as Mitchell scored.

Jordan Parraz singled and scored on Irving Falu's triple in the home half of the 5th inning as the Royals trailed 6-3.

In the 6th inning, Trent Oeltjen singled, stole second base, took third base on a throwing error on the catcher on the stolen base attempt, and scored on DeJesus Jr.'s double. Mitchell followed with a double to drive in DeJesus Jr. as the Isotopes led 8-3.

Manuel Pina brought home a run with a sacrifice flyout in the 7th inning to close out the scoring.

Isotopes starter Seth Etherton went 5 innings, and gave up 3 runs and 4 hits while fanning 3.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x4, 3 R, 1 2B (21), 1 RBI (30), .296 AVG
Lucas May: 1x3, 1 K, .319 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
P Seth Etherton was activated from the disabled list to make the start and P Jesus Castillo was placed on the disabled list. . . . Albuquerque's offense has had 10 hits in a game in 49 of their 86 contests so far in 2010. . . . Seth Etherton snapped a two-game losing streak with the victory tonight.

Filed 07/09/2010

July 8, 2010 - Isotopes (43-42)

Rosenblatt Stadium

Albuquerque    000 000 100 --  1  6  0
Omaha          010 003 00x --  4  7  0

WP: Gaby Hernandez (6-5)
LP: Jesus Castillo (0-3)
SV: Josh Rupe (3)

HR: OMA Kila Kaaihue (17) off Castillo (2nd inning)
    OMA Scott Thorman (15) off Castillo (6th inning)

TIME: 2:41
ATT: 6,086
Albuquerque returned to Rosenblatt Stadium for the final time and in the opener, two Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) homers provided all the runs needed in a 4-1 victory over the Isotopes.

Kila Kaaihue solo homered in the 2nd inning and Scott Thorman three-run homered in the 6th inning as Omaha built a 4-0 lead.

The Isotopes avoided being shut out when they were able to push across a run in the 7th inning. Lucas May doubled and scored on Jamie Hoffmann's double.

Jesus Castillo started for Albuquerque and allowed 4 runs and 6 hits in 6 innings. Castillo allowed both Royals homers.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x4, 2 K, .294 AVG
Lucas May: 2x4, 1 R, 1 2B (12), 2 K, .318 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The series continues Friday night with a doubleheader. Probables are RHP Seth Etherton (2-2, 4.84) for the Isotopes and RHP Philip Humber (4-4, 4.38) for the Royals in the opener, and in the nightcap, knuckleballer RHP Charlie Haeger (1-1, 3.29) is expected to face RHP Federico Castaneda (3-1, 3.40).

Filed 07/08/2010

July 7, 2010 - Isotopes (43-41)

Principal Park

Albuquerque    100 000 000 --  1   7  0
Iowa           020 502 00x --  9  16  0

WP: J.R. Mathes (7-5)
LP: Claudio Vargas (1-3)

HR: ALB Russ Mitchell (11) off Mathes (1st inning)

    IWA Bryan LaHair (9) off Vargas (2nd inning)
    IWA Darwin Barney (2) off Lindblom (6th inning)

TIME: 2:42
ATT: 7,684
Russ Mitchell got Albuquerque on the scoreboard in the 1st inning and then it was downhill from there as Claudio Vargas allowed 7 runs in almost four innings of work. The Iowa Cubs (AAA Cubs) defeated the Isotopes 9-1 in the series finale in Des Moines on Wednesday evening.

Mitchell's solo homer in the 1st inning was Albuquerque's lone run of the game.

Bobby Scales singled and scored on Bryan LaHair's two-run homer in the 2nd inning as the Cubs took a 2-1 lead.

Iowa put the game away in the 4th inning, plating five runs to lead 7-1. James Adduci and Darwin Barney each had two-run doubles in the inning.

Adduci singled and scored on Barney's two-run homer in the 6th inning for the final runs of the contest.

Vargas tossed 3 2/3 innings and allowed 10 hits and 7 runs. He walked one and struck out 3.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x4, .298 AVG
Lucas May: 1x4, .315 AVG
Josh Lindblom: 1 IP, 3 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 0 BB, 2 K, 1 HR, 6.89 ERA


'TOPES NOTES:
Today's only transaction was the Dodgers recalling P Carlos Monasterios from his rehabilitation assignment. Because the Dodgers placed P Ronald Belisario on the restricted list, there was no need to consider sending someone to the minor leagues to free up a roster spot for Monasterios. . . . The I-Cubs and Isotopes split the four game series 2-2 and 19,324 attended for a per-game average of 6,441. Tonight's game also marked the final 2010 regular season game to be played in Des Moines and each team won four of the eight games. Iowa will play eight games in Albuquerque to close out the regular season 16-game series. . . . Jay Gibbons will be a participant in the 2010 Triple-A All-Star Game Home Run Derby in Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania on Monday July 12th. Joining Gibbons in representing the Pacific Coast League are J.P. Arencibia of the Las Vegas 51s (AAA Blue Jays) and Alex Gordon of the Omaha Royals (AAA Royals). Representing the International League are Dan Johnson of Durham (AAA Rays), Jeff Frazier of Toledo (AAA Tigers) and Andy Tracy of Lehigh Valley (AAA Phillies). Gibbons is the sixth active Isotope all-time to be named to the Home Run Derby and if he participates, he'll be the fifth one to play (Dallas McPherson withdrew in 2008). . . . The Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) swept their doubleheader. Combined with an Isotopes loss, Albuquerque finds themselves 3 games back in the division. . . . The Isotopes travel to Omaha to play the Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) in a five game series to close out play before the All-Star Break. The series was originally scheduled for four games but was extended to five games because the Isotopes and Royals had one game rained out the last time Albuquerque was in Omaha. Thursday's game is a single game and the probables are RHP Jesus Castillo (0-2, 12.86) for the Isotopes and former-Isotope RHP Gaby Hernandez (5-5, 6.10) for the Royals. A doubleheader is scheduled to be played Friday.

Filed 07/07/2010

July 6, 2010 - Isotopes (43-40)

Principal Park

Albuquerque    000 000 05 --  5  7  3
Iowa           000 000 00 --  0  1  1

WP: Jesus Rodriguez (3-1)
LP: John Gaub (3-4)

TIME: 2:25
ATT: 4,401
Ivan DeJesus Jr. knocked in the go-ahead runs in the 8th inning and four Isotope pitchers combined on the one-hit shutout of the Iowa Cubs (AAA Cubs) 5-0. Albuquerque swept the doubleheader with the victory.

The game went through the seven regular innings scoreless and Albuquerque was finally able to break the tie in the extra frame. Justin Sellers drew a leadoff walk and pinch-hitter Josh Lindblom was hit by a pitch. Elian Herrera walked to load the bases and Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled home Sellers and Lindblom. Russ Mitchell singled home Herrera and Jay Gibbons singled home DeJesus Jr. John Lindsey closed out the scoring with a sacrifice flyout to drive in Mitchell.

Charlie Haeger, Ramon Troncoso, Jesus Rodriguez, and Jack Taschner combined on the one hit shutout. Haeger, in his first start since being outrighted to Albuquerque, went 3 innings and allowed a hit, no runs, walked 2 and struck out 1.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x4, 1 R, 2 RBI (29), 1 K, .298 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
There were transactions galore on Tuesday. The Dodgers signed OF Trent Oeltjen to a minor league contract after he was recently released from the Nashville Sounds (AAA Brewers) and the Dodgers assigned him to Albuquerque. OF Timo Perez was released and P James Adkins was sent to Class-AA Chattanooga. IF John Lindsey was activated from the disabled list and C Esteban Lopez went back on the disabled list with a left ankel sprain. . . . Albuquerque swept a doubleheader for the first time since August 2, 2009 when the Nashville Sounds (AAA Brewers) were swept in Nashville. . . . The Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) had a doubleheader postponed due to rain so Albuquerque made up a full game with the sweep. The Isotopes are currently 1.5 games back in the division. . . . The Isotopes are 7-4 in extra inning contests and Albuquerque set a franchise record for most victories in extra inning contests (7) in a season. . . . The shutout was Albuquerque's fourth tossed shutout of the season. . . . None of the eight combined hits in the game went for extra bases. . . . The series concludes on Wednesday evening. Probables are RHP Claudio Vargas (1-2, 4.70) for the Isotopes and LHP J.R. Mathes (6-5, 4.55) for the I-Cubs.

Filed 07/06/2010

July 6, 2010 - Isotopes (42-40)

Principal Park

Albuquerque    024 000 0  --  6  10  0
Iowa           000 000 4  --  4   5  1

WP: James McDonald (5-1)
LP: Thomas Diamond (5-3)
SV: Kiko Calero (1)

HR: ALB Lucas May (11) off Diamond (2nd inning)

TIME: 1:49
Isotopes starter James McDonald came within two outs of tossing a complete game shutout as the Isotopes defeated the Iowa Cubs (AAA Cubs) 6-4 in the first game of a doubleheader on Tuesday afternoon in Des Moines.

In the 2nd inning, Jamie Hoffmann reached on a fielder's choice, stole second base and scored on Lucas May's two run homer.

The Isotopes added four more runs in the 3rd inning. With one out, Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled, Russ Mitchell doubled and Jay Gibbons walked to load the bases. Hoffmann drew a walk to bring DeJesus Jr. home and May sacrifice flied out to drive in Mitchell. Michael Restovich two-run doubled to drive in Gibbons and Hoffmann as the Isotopes led 6-0.

McDonald ran into trouble in the 7th inning. Bobby Scales drew a leadoff walk but was erased from the basepaths on Micah Hoffpauir's fielder's choice. Bryan LaHair doubled and Ty Wright sacrifice fled out to bring home Hoffpauir. Chris Robinson walked and Matt Camp singled to load the bases. Kiko Calero entered the game to replace McDonald and allowed a bases-clearing double to Brad Snyder before getting Sam Fuld to strike out on a foul tip to end the threat and the game.

McDonald ended up pitching 6 2/3 innings with four hits and four runs allowed and he fanned 5 Cubs.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x4, 1 R, .295 AVG
Lucas May: 1x2, 1 R, 1 HR (11), 3 RBI (43), .316 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
James McDonald had an Isotope starter season-best 17 scoreless innings streak going until he gave up a run in the 7th inning. McDonald earned his first victory since May 26th before he went on the disabled list and has a four winning decision streak. . . . The Isotopes are 8-5 in two-run contests in 2010. . . . J.P. Arencibia of the Las Vegas 51s (AAA Blue Jays) is the PCL Hitter of the Week. Arencibia hit .423 (11x26) with 4 homers and 12 RBI during the award week. . . . Michael Pineda of the Tacoma Rainiers (AAA Mariners) is the PCL Pitcher of the Week. Pineda made two starts and went 1-0 with a 3.46 ERA. In 13 innings, Pineda allowed 10 hits, 5 runs, 2 walks and struck out 21.

Filed 07/06/2010

July 5, 2010 - Isotopes (41-40)

Principal Park

Albuquerque    000 023 100 --  6   9  4
Iowa           010 113 001 --  7  12  0

WP: Scott Maine (1-1)
LP: James Adkins (0-1)

HR: ALB Jay Gibbons (12) off Jackson (6th inning)
    ALB Russ Mitchell (10) off Chen (7th inning)

TIME: 3:17
ATT: 7,239
What a wacky day for Albuquerque's first doubleheader of the season on Monday in Des Moines, Iowa. The start of the game was delayed, then the Isotopes fell behind but worked their way back to take the lead and the heavens opened up once again. After the second delay the Isotopes fell behind but tied the game in dramatic fashion then lost the game in extra innings on an error. And that was just Game 1! The Isotopes fell to the Iowa Cubs (AAA Cubs) 7-6 in 9 innings before having the second game postponed.

Marquez Smith singled home a run in the 2nd inning and Welington Castillo brought home a run with a sacrifice flyout in the 4th inning as the Cubs led 2-0.

In the 5th inning, Jamie Hoffmann was hit by a pitch to lead off the inning and scored on Lucas May's double. After Michael Restovich grounded out, Justin Seller was hit by a pitch and a wild pitch moved both runners into scoring position. Isotopes starter Alberto Bastardo laid down a sacrifice bunt as May raced home to tie the game at 2-2.

Brad Snyder scored on an error in the home half of the 5th inning as Iowa regained the lead, but Albuquerque took their first lead of the game in the 6th inning. Jay Gibbons solo homered to right field with two outs to tie the game. Hoffmann doubled, scored on May's triple, and Restovich singled home May as the Isotopes led 5-3.

The rains came after Albuquerque's at-bats and the Cubs wasted no time getting to Isotopes reliever Josh Lindblom in the bottom of the 6th inning. Smith was hit by a pitch, pinch-hitter Ty Wright singled and James Adduci laid down a sacrifice bunt. Darwin Barney singled home Smith and Wright to tie the game at 5-5 and then scored on Snyder's double to give the Cubs a 6-5 lead.

Albuquerque was down to their last out in the 7th inning when Russ Mitchell homered to left field to tie the game.

The Isotopes stranded a baserunner on third base in the top of the 9th inning, and in the bottom of the 9th inning, Iowa's Snyder singled but was erased from the basepaths on Micah Hoffpauir's fielder's choice. Bobby Scales singled and a wild pitch moved Hoffpauir to third base. Sam Fuld was intentionally walked to load the bases and set up a force play at any base. The next batter Castillo hit a grounder towards the area between the pitchers mound and first base. Isotopes first baseman JD Closser leaned to field the ball but wasn't able to glove it cleanly to make an attempt to get a force out at home plate. On the error, Hoffpauir scored the winning run.

Bastardo started for Albuquerque and in 4 2/3 innings, allowed 6 hits and 3 runs (2 earned).

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Lucas May: 2x4, 2 R, 1 2B (11), 1 3B (2), 2 BB, 2 K, .315 AVG
Josh Lindblom: (BS,1), .2 IP, 3 H, 3 R, 3 ER, 0 BB, 0 K, 0 HR, 2 HBP, 6.71 ERA


'TOPES NOTES:
The Isotopes and I-Cubs were scheduled to play a doubleheader, but things changed during the second rain delay. Due to the length of the two rain delays, it was determined that the second game of the doubleheader would be postponed instead of getting underway at around 11:30pm local time. The game will be made up as part of a doubleheader on Tuesday July 6, once again weather permitting, as the weather forecast calls for scattered thundershowers throughout the late afternoon and evening. . . . Another day, more transactions. P Jesus Colome was released and C Esteban Lopez was activated from the Disabled List. You might be seeing another transaction reported here tomorrow as the Dodgers are close to ending P Carlos Monasterios' rehab assignment and activating him on the Dodgers roster. . . . The pre-game rain delay was an hour and 16 minutes. The rain delay in the 6th inning was an hour and 39 minutes. The 2 hours, 55 minutes of combined rain delay almost exceeded the actual game playing time (3 hours, 17 minutes). . . . The 3 hour, 17 minute affair was Albuquerque's longest doubleheader game in franchise history. The doubleheader was also the first in franchise history where only a part of a scheduled doubleheader was played. On Tuesday, it will be the second time in franchise history that the Isotopes will play scheduled doubleheaders on back to back days, both times occuring in Iowa. . . . Albuquerque committed four errors in the game for the third time this season and they lost all three games. . . . Elian Herrera made his Triple-A debut at second base for Albuquerque and struck out four times. . . . Probables in Tuesday's doubleheader: Game 1 - RHP James McDonald (4-1, 4.65) for the Isotopes and RHP Thomas Diamond (5-2, 2.53) for the Cubs. Game 2 - knuckleballer RHP Charlie Haeger (1-1, 4.22) against Iowa LHP J.R. Mathes (6-5, 4.55).

Filed 07/05/2010

July 4, 2010 - Isotopes at Iowa Cubs, Ppd., Rain

The series opener between the Albuquerque Isotopes and Iowa Cubs (AAA Cubs) in Des Moines on Independence Day night was postponed due to rain. It was the fourth game postponed due to rain in the 2010 season, all on the road. The game will be made up as a doubleheader tomorrow, weather permitting. Albuquerque has had a tough time of things on Independence Day lately - 2009's July 4th game at Nashville was suspended due to rain and tonight's game was rained out entirely. The Isotopes did not gain or lose any games to the division leader Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) as the Redhawks also had their game postponed due to rain.
Filed 07/04/2010

July 3, 2010 - Isotopes (41-39)

Isotopes Park

Oklahoma City  000 042 204 --  12  17  2
Albuquerque    020 100 110 --   5  10  1

WP: Guillermo Moscoso (5-2)
LP: Jesus Castillo (0-2)

HR: OKC Chris Davis (9) off Castillo (5th inning)
    OKC Mitch Moreland (7) off Taschner (7th inning)
    OKC Gregorio Petit (7) off Wade (6th inning)
    OKC Chad Tracy (16) off Taschner (7th inning)

    ALB Timo Perez (2) off Moscoso (4th inning)
    ALB Michael Restovich (9) off Eyre (8th inning)

TIME: 3:18
ATT: 15,276
In front of the third largest crowd in Isotopes Park history, Carlos Monasterios had a great rehab start, allowing no runs in 3 innings. The game was turned over to the bullpen who proceeded to give up 12 runs as the Isotopes fell to the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) 12-5 in the series finale on Saturday evening at "The Lab". The defeat snapped a four-game winning streak.

The large crowd really enjoyed the Isotopes getting on the scoreboard in the 2nd inning. Michael Restovich drew a leadoff walk, JD Closser singled and Justin Seller laid down a sacrifice bunt. An throwing error allowed Restovich to score and with Closser on third base, Ivan DeJesus Jr. grounded out to bring home Closser as the Isotopes led 2-0.

Timo Perez powered the Isotopes to a 3-0 lead with a solo homer in the 4th inning.

The Isotopes bullpen fell apart starting in the 5th inning as the Redhawks scored eight unanswered runs over the next three frames. In the 5th inning, Brandon Boggs singled home a run, Mitch Moreland doubled home a run and Chris Davis two-run homered as the Redhawks led 4-3.

Gregorio Petit two run homered in the 6th inning and Moreland and Chad Tracy solo homered in the 7th inning as the Redhawks extended their lead to 8-3.

Back to back doubles from Perez and DeJesus Jr. got Albuquerque on the scoreboard in the home half of the 7th inning and Restovich solo homered in the 8th inning as Albuquerque tried to get back in the game at 8-5.

The comeback was not to be, however, as the Redhawks put up a four spot in the 9th inning to secure the victory.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 4x5, 1 2B (20), 2 RBI (27), .292 AVG
Lucas May: 0x4, 1 K .311 AVG

DODGERS Rehab Report

Carlos Monasterios: ND, 3 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 1 K, 0 HR, WP, HBP, 5.40 ERA

Monasterios made his second and possibly final rehab start and faced 11 batters. 22 of his 35 pitches went for strikes and one of his two hits allowed went for extra bases.

'TOPES NOTES:
The Dodgers optioned P Ramon Troncoso to the Isotopes to work on his mechanics and recalled P Travis Schlichting. OF Elian Herrera was transferred to the Isotopes from Class-AA Chattanooga to take the roster spot of OF Xavier Paul who was recalled by the Dodgers yesterday. . . . The Isotopes took two out of the three games in the series and 33,027 attended for a per-game average of 11,009. . . . Ivan DeJesus Jr. had his third 4-hit game of the season. . Albuquerque's Timo Perez and Oklahoma City's Mitch Moreland were both a triple shy of hitting for the cycle. . . . The Isotopes head on the road to complete the schedule prior to the All-Star Break. The first four games of the eight game roadtrip are in Des Moines, Iowa to play the Iowa Cubs (AAA Cubs). Probables in the opener on Sunday evening are LHP Alberto Bastardo (3-0, 3.12) for the Isotopes and RHP Jay Jackson (4-6 3.63) for the I-Cubs.

Filed 07/03/2010

July 2, 2010 - Isotopes (41-38)

Isotopes Park

Oklahoma City  000 000 300 --  3  7  0
Albuquerque    012 200 00x --  5  8  0

WP: Claudio Vargas (1-2)
LP: Michael Kirkman (7-3)
SV: Scott Dohmann (9)

TIME: 2:52
ATT: 12,089
Claudio Vargas was outstanding for the Isotopes on Friday evening, allowing no runs and 2 hits in 6 innings while fanning 8 as the Isotopes defeated the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) 5-3 to move to 1.5 games back of the Redhawks in the PCL American Conference Southern Division.

Albuquerque was the first team on the scoreboard. In the 2nd inning, Jamie Hoffmann and Lucas May drew walks to lead off the inning. An out later, both executed a double steal and JD Closser lifted a sacrifice flyout to bring Hoffmann home.

Albuquerque added to thie lead in the 3rd inning. Consecutive singles by Ivan DeJesus Jr., Russ Mitchell and Jay Gibbons led to DeJesus Jr. scoring. Hoffmann sacrifice flied out to bring home Mitchell as Albuquerque led 3-0.

Albuquerque led 5-0 in the 4th inning. Michael Restovich walked, Closser singled, and Justin Sellers laid down a sacrifice bunt to advance both runners into scoring position before Xavier Paul doubled to bring them both home.

Oklahoma City got on the scoreboard in the 7th inning with their only runs of the game - Chris Davis doubled home two runs and later scored on Chad Tracy's sacrifice flyout.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x4, 1 R, 1 K, .283 AVG
Xavier Paul: 2x4, 1 2B (14), 2 RBI (34), 1 SB (7), .348 AVG
Lucas May: 0x3, 1 BB, 2 K, 1 SB (4), .317 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The Dodgers recalled OF Xavier Paul after the game because they are going to place OF Manny Ramirez on the Disabled List. . . . Baseball America ranked the 120 full-season minor league teams at all levels based on their team offense. Using stats through games of June 28, the Isotopes led all of minor league baseball in team batting average with .303. The PCL enjoyed having four of the top six clubs ranked by batting average (Las Vegas, Colorado Springs and Fresno). The Isotopes led all of minor league baseball in runs per game (6.16) and was second most in homers with 86, trailing just Las Vegas (95). In drawing walks, Albuqueque ranked 115th out of 120 with 184 walks. . . . Former-Isotopes named as International League All-Stars are P Nate Bump (Lehigh Valley), IF Joe Dillon (Durham) and IF Chase Lambin (Syracuse). . . . The crowd of 12,089 was the largest of the season but expect that mark to be broken on Saturday evening. . . . Albuquerque tied a season-best with a four-game winning streak. . . . The Isotopes have won their last four matchups against the Redhawks at Isotopes Park. . . . The quick three-game series concludes with the main Independence Day Fireworks show on Saturday night and the Isotopes having a chance at sweeping the series and sending the Redhawks home with just a half-game lead in the division. Probables are RHP Carlos Monasterios (0-0, 9.82) for the Isotopes and RHP Guillermo Moscoso (4-2, 3.92) for the Redhawks.

Filed 07/02/2010

July 1, 2010 - Isotopes (40-38)

Isotopes Park

Oklahoma City  000 002 030 --  5  12  2
Albuquerque    000 030 40x --  7   9  0

WP: Cory Wade (1-0)
LP: Doug Mathis (3-4)
SV: Scott Dohmann (8)

HR: OKC Chad Tracy (15) off Schlichting (8th inning)

TIME: 2:49
ATT: 5,662
James McDonald was spectacular in his return from the disabled list and Justin Sellers knocked in three runs as the Isotopes defeated the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) 7-5 in the series opener to move to 2.5 games back of the Redhawks in the division.

The game was a quick-paced 0-0 game into the 5th inning. In the bottom of the 5th inning, Jamie Hoffmann and Lucas May drew one out walks, both executed a double steal, JD Closser walked to load the bags and Justin Sellers cleared them with a double as Albuquerque led 3-0.

In the 6th inning, Mitch Moreland doubled and scored on Chris Davis' double as the Redhawks got on the scoreboard. Jarrod Saltalamacchia singled home Davis as Oklahoma City edged to a run down at 3-2.

Albuquerque put some breathing room between themselves and the Redhawks in the 7th inning. May and Michael Restovich singled and both advanced into scoring position on Closser's sacrifice bunt. Timo Perez doubled home May and Restovich and DeJesus Jr. singled home Perez. DeJesus Jr. advanced to second base on a fielding error on the play and scored on Jay Gibbons' single.

The Redhawks rallied in the 8th inning. The Moreland/Davis combo struck again when Moreland doubled and scored on Davis' double. Chad Tracy came up an out later and belted a two run homer as the Redhawks cut the defecit to two runs at 7-5 before the next two Oklahoma City batters were retired to end the rally.

McDonald was hit in the knee by a comebacker in the 4th inning yet finished the inning and was pulled from the game as a precaution. Still, in his 4 innings of work, McDonald allowed no runs, 3 hits, walked 1 and struck out 3.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x4, 1 R, 1 2B (19), 1 RBI (25), 1 K, .284 AVG
Lucas May: 1x2, 2 R, 2 BB, SB (3), .322 AVG
Josh Lindblom: 2 IP, 4 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 0 BB, 1 K, 0 HR, 6.34 ERA


'TOPES NOTES:
The 2010 Pacific Coast League All-Stars were named on Thursday and three Isotopes made the squad. OF Jay Gibbons, IF John Lindsey and C Lucas May were all named to the squad, with Gibbons and Lindsey as starters and May as a reserve. Lindsey, who is currently on the disabled list, is expected to be healthy by the game in order to participate. The 2010 Triple-A All-Star Game is July 14th in the home ballpark of the International League's Lehigh Valley (Pennsylvania) Iron Pigs. Although the three players named is more than last year's lone named participant (P Charlie Haeger), it falls short of the four players named to the squad in 2008. . . . Even though the Isotopes were off on Wednesday, there was still a transaction. The Dodgers outrighted knuckleball P Charlie Haeger to Albuquerque after Haeger was designated for assignment last week and cleared waivers. There were many more transactions on Thursday. P James McDonald was activated from the Disabled List to make the start tonight, IF Chin-Lung Hu was placed on the Disabled List with a strained right thumb, P Bobby Blevins was sent to Class-AA Chattanooga, and P Cory Wade joined the club. Supposedly it is Wade continuing his rehabilitation assignment but many media sources are reporting that Wade was outrighted to the Isotopes. Considering Wade was not designated for assignment or even activated from the Dodgers disabled list, there may be other procedural rules in MLB that he can be outrighted without being designated for assignment or even activated before being demoted to the minor leagues. . . . The Isotopes are on a three-game winning streak. . . . The series continues Friday night with the first of two scheduled Fireworks nights, weather permitting, related to Independence Day. Probables are RHP Claudio Vargas (0-2, 7.71) for the Isotopes and LHP Michael Kirkman (7-2, 3.09) for the Redhawks.

Filed 07/01/2010

June 29, 2010 - Isotopes (39-38)

Isotopes Park

Memphis       000 020 002 --  4  10  1
Albuquerque   032 010 00x --  6   9  2

WP: Alberto Bastardo (3-0)
LP: David Kopp (0-2)
SV: Jack Taschner (1)

HR: ALB Justin Sellers (1) off Kopp (2nd inning)

TIME: 2:44
ATT: 6,169
Alberto Bastardo turned in a quality start for the Isotopes and Justin Sellers hit his first Triple-A homer as the Isotopes got their record back over the .500 mark with a 6-4 victory over the Memphis Redbirds (AAA Cardinals) in the series finale on Tuesday afternoon at "The Lab".


In the 2nd inning, Lucas May tripled, JD Closser walked, and Sellers three-run homered as the Isotopes led 3-0.

The Isotopes added to their lead in the 3rd inning. Chin-Lung Hu doubled and scored on Jay Gibbons' single. Russ Mitchell was hit by a pitch, Jamie Hoffmann walked to load the bases and Closser reached on a fielder's choice with Gibbons out at home plate. A throwing error on the play allowed Mitchell to score as the Isotopes led 5-0.

Redbirds starter David Kopp doubled home two runs in the 5th inning as the Redbirds got on the scoreboard and Albuquerque answered with a run of their own in their half of the 5th inning. Mitchell doubled and scored two outs later on Closser's single.

The Isotopes held their 6-2 lead until the 9th inning when Memphis tacked on their final two runs. Joe Mather walked, advanced to second base on a passed ball, and scored on Ruben Gotay's double. Gotay later scored on an error.

Bastardo allowed two runs (none earned) and 8 hits in 7 1/3 innings.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x1, .280 AVG
Xavier Paul: 2x5, 1 3B (1), 2 K, .345 AVG
Lucas May: 1x4, 1 R, 1 3B (1), 2 K, .320 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
In the lone Isotope transaction Tuesday, P Seth Etherton was placed on the Disabled List with right shoulder fatigue. . . . The Isotopes and Redbirds split the series and a season four-game series best 32,705 attended for a per-game average of 8,176. . . . Today marked the final game of the 2010 regular season series between the two clubs and Memphis won nine out of the 16 contests. Albuquerque went 4-4 at Isotopes Park, 3-5 in Memphis. Albuquerque holds a 71-59 all-time series advantage over Memphis. . . . With today's contest marking the final game of the month, here are some June figures: 13-15 June record as the Isotopes continue their history of never having a winning June; 6-6 at home and 7-9 on the road; .286 team batting average and 6.04 team ERA; 174 runs scored, 17 stolen bases, and 39 homers. . . . Lucas May tripled to extend his hitting streak to 10 games. . . . Isotopes reliever Jack Taschner earned his first save today. Taschner is the fifth different Isotope to earn a save this season. . . . After a day off on Wednesday, the Isotopes return to action with a three-game series against the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers). The series is important as the Redhawks hold a 3.5 game lead over the Isotopes in the division so Albuquerque can edge closer to the Redhawks with a good series. Probables in the opener are RHP James McDonald (4-1, 5.05) for the Isotopes and RHP Doug Mathis (3-3, 4.70) for the Redhawks.

Filed 06/29/2010

June 28, 2010 - Isotopes (38-38)

Isotopes Park

Memphis       300 200 000 --   5   8  0
Albuquerque   502 402 10x --  14  17  1

WP: Jesus Rodriguez (2-1)
LP: Lance Lynn (5-6)

HR: MEM Allen Craig (9) off Monasterios (1st inning)

    ALB Lucas May (9) off Lynn (1st inning)
    ALB Lucas May (10) off Lynn (3rd inning)
    ALB Xavier Paul (12) off Fick (4th inning)
    ALB Jay Gibbons (11) off Rundles (7th inning)

TIME: 3:13
ATT: 7,278
After the start of the game was delayed by rain, the Isotopes bats finally awoken in the series with the Memphis Redbirds (AAA Cardinals). Lucas May homered twice and drove in 6 runs as the Isotopes defeated the Redbirds 14-5 to snap a three-game losing streak.

In the 1st inning, Jon Jay led off with a single, Tyler Greene reached on an error, and Allen Craig three-run homered as Memphis quickly led 3-0.

Unlike the prior games in the series, Albuquerque was able to overcome the defecit. In their half of the 1st inning, Timo Perez and Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled and two outs later, Russ Mitchell singled Perez home and Jamie Hoffmann singled home DeJesus Jr. May followed with a three-run homer as the Isotopes led 5-3.

Albuquerque added to their lead in the 3rd inning. May belted his second homer of the game, Chin-Lung Hu doubled, stole third base and scored on Carlos Monasterios' groundout.

The Redbirds plated their final two runs of the game in the 4th inning. Mark Shorey ground-rule doubled and scored on Greene's triple, while Greene scored on Craig's single as the Redbirds trailed 7-5.

The Isotopes added four runs of their own in the bottom of the 4th inning. Xavier Paul solo homered with one out. Jay Gibbons walked, Mitchell singled and both scored on Hoffmann's double. May then singled home Hoffmann.

May played a part in Albuquerque's two-run 6th inning to take a 13-5 lead. Hoffmann was hit by a pitch and scored on May's double. Pinch-hitter Michael Restovich tripled home May before Perez and DeJesus Jr. grounded out to strand Restovich at third base.

Gibbons solo homered in the 7th inning for Albuquerque's final run of the game.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x5, 1 R, 1 K, .281 AVG
Xavier Paul: 2x5, 1 R, 1 HR (12), 1 RBI (32), 1 K, .343 AVG
Lucas May: 4x5, 3 R, 1 2B (10), 2 HR (10), 6 RBI (38), .321 AVG
Josh Lindblom: 2 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 1 K, 0 HR, 6.25 ERA

DODGERS Rehab Report

Carlos Monasterios: ND, 3.2 IP, 5 H, 5 R, 4 ER, 3 BB, 4 K, WP, HBP, 9.82 ERA

The Dodgers relationship with the Isotopes continues to be fruitful, as Monasterios became the 15th different Dodger to have a rehabilitation assignment stint with the Isotopes in the 1+ seasons of affiliation.

Monasterios had a rocky 1st inning, allowing a three run homer, before holding the Redbirds scoreless for the remainer of his outing. Monasterios tossed 82 pitches with 52 of them for strikes and three of his five hits allowed went for extra bases.

'TOPES NOTES:
Another day, more transactions. The Dodgers assigned P Carlos Monasterios to Albuquerque on a rehabilitation assignment. P Jon Link was optioned to Albuquerque when the Dodgers activated P Chad Billingsley and P James McDonald is nearing his Isotope return as he was transferred from the Arizona League Dodgers rookie level team to the Isotopes. While with the rookie Dodgers tuning up for his Albuquerque return, McDonald made two starts and in 5 2/3 innings, allowed 3 hits, 3 runs (1 earned), walked 3 and struck out 8 while compiling a 1.59 ERA. . . . The start of the game was delayed 44 minutes due to rain. It was the second weather-related delayed game start of the season at Isotopes Park. . . . Lucas May extended his hitting streak to 9 games with his first four-hit effort of the season. May's 6 RBI tied him with Prentice Redman and John Lindsey for most RBI in a single game this season. The multi-homer game was May's first of the season and May was a triple shy of hitting for the cycle. . . . The Isotopes snapped a four-game losing streak to the Redbirds in games played at Isotopes Park. . . . Gregorio Petit of the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) is the PCL Hitter of the Week. Petit hit .400 (10x25) with 3 homers and 11 RBI during the award week. . . . Kyle Middleton of the Sacramento River Cats (AAA Athletics) is the PCL Pitcher of the Week. Middleton won both of his starts for the week, allowing no runs in 14 innings while allowing 11 hits, 3 walks and fanning 12 batters. . . . The series concludes Tuesday afternoon. Probables are LHP Alberto Bastardo (2-0, 4.34) for the Isotopes and RHP David Kopp (0-1, 5.40) for the Redbirds.

Filed 06/28/2010

June 27, 2010 - Isotopes (37-38)

Isotopes Park

Memphis       322 304 001 --  15  17  1
Albuquerque   020 000 001 --   3  10  1

WP: Evan MacLane (5-7)
LP: Claudio Vargas (0-2)

HR: MEM Allen Craig (7) off Etherton (4th inning)
    MEM Allen Craig (8) off Taschner (9th inning)
    MEM Jon Jay (4) off Vargas (1st inning)
    MEM Joe Mather (2) off Etherton (4th inning)

TIME: 3:11
ATT: 9,650
Albuquerque trotted out five pitchers to the mound on Sunday evening and only two of those pitchers were effective as the Memphis Redbirds (AAA Cardinals) routed the Isotopes 15-3.

Isotopes starter Claudio Vargas was rocked from the very first inning. Jon Jay solo homered to lead off the game. Tyler Greene followed with a double and Daniel Descalso singled. An out later, Vargas' wild pitch brought Greene home. Descalso advanced to second base on that wild pitch and took third base on another wild pitch before scoring on Bryan Anderson's groundout.

In the 2nd inning, Jay singled, Descalso doubled and Allen Craig doubled to the wall in left-center field. The ball stuck in the wall but the umpires did not rule it a ground-rule double. Jay and Descalso scored on the play to make it 5-0 Memphis.

Albuquerque got on the scoreboard in the bottom of the 2nd inning. Jay Gibbons singled on a ball off of the Redbirds starter Evan MacLane, Jamie Hoffmann singled and Lucas May reached on a fielder's choice with Hoffmann out at second base. Michael Restovich's single plated Gibbons and with May on third base, Justin Sellers reached on a fielder's choice to drive in May.

Vargas' final inning was the third inning. Vargas walked Anderson and Ruben Gotay to lead off the inning. An out later, MacLane laid down a sacrifice bunt to advance Anderson and Gotay into scoring position and Jay singled them home for a 7-2 Memphis lead.

Descalso started the 4th inning with a single off Isotopes reliever Seth Etherton and Craig followed with a two run homer. The next batter, Joe Mather, solo homered as the Redbirds led 10-2.

Travis Schlichting was on the mound in the 6th inning when Memphis plated four more runs, primarily playing station to station baseball. Craig walked, Mather and Anderson singled to load the bases and Gotay singled home Craig. Jim Rapoport reached on an error as Mather scored and MacLane singled home Anderson. With the bases still loaded, Jay lifted a sacrifice fly to center to bring home Gotay as Memphis led 14-2

The two teams tallied their final runs in the 9th inning. Craig belted his second homer of the game in the top half, Hoffmann doubled and scored on May's single in the bottom half.

Vargas allowed 7 runs in 2 2/3 innings, while Etherton allowed 3 runs in 1 1/3 innings and Schlichting allowed 4 runs in 2 innings.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x3, 1 BB, .283 AVG
Xavier Paul: 0x3, .341 AVG
Lucas May: 1z3, 1 R, 1 RBI (32), 1 BB, 1 K, .309 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
On Sunday, the Dodgers signed free agent P Jack Taschner and assigned him to Albuquerque. To make room on the Isotopes roster for the reliever Taschner, P Hyang-Nam Choi was released. . . . How much of a funk are the Isotopes in? After they lost their third game in a row tonight, they are a season-worst 4.5 games back of the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) in the PCL American Conference Southern Division and at 37-38, they are below the .500 mark for the first time since the early days of the season on April 10th. . . . The Isotopes have lost their last three home games, a season worst home losing streak, and they have lost their last four games to the Redbirds in games played at Isotopes Park. . . . Lucas May's 9th inning single extended his hitting streak to 8 games. . . . Albuquerque looks to get back into the win column on Monday evening. Albuquerque's probable is expected to be RHP Carlos Monasterios, making a rehabilitation assignment outing. RHP Lance Lynn (5-5, 5.25) is expected to be the probable for the Redbirds.

Filed 06/27/2010

June 26, 2010 - Isotopes (37-37)

Isotopes Park

Memphis       200 110 002 --  6  11  1
Albuquerque   000 210 000 --  3   9  0

WP: Brandon Dickson (8-4)
LP: Bobby Blevins (0-1)
SV: Fernando Salas (12)

HR: MEM Tyler Greene (7) off Blevins (5th inning)
    MEM Bryan Anderson (9) off Blevins (4th inning)

    ALB Russ Mitchell (9) off Dickson (5th inning)

TIME: 3:00
ATT: 9,608
The Isotopes returned home to begin a series with the Memphis Redbirds (AAA Cardinals) and Albuquerque's bats were relatively quiet in the game, only able to tally for three runs in losing to the Redbirds 6-3.

The Redbirds quickly got off to a 2-0 lead in the 1st inning. Jon Jay and Tyler Greene singled and Daniel Descalso walked to load the bases. Allen Craig was hit by a pitch to bring in Jay and Bryan Anderson sacrifice flied out to drive in Greene.

Anderson solo-homered in the 4th inning to extend Memphis' lead to 3-0.

The Isotopes got on the scoreboard in the 4th inning. Timo Perez singled and advanced to third base on Ivan DeJesus Jr.'s single. DeJesus Jr. stole second base before Jamie Hoffmann singled home Perez. DeJesus Jr. scored on a throwing error on the play as the Isotopes trailed 3-2.

Each team solo homered in the 5th inning - Greene for the Redbirds and Russ Mitchell for the Isotopes, as the Isotopes trailed by a run at 4-3 after five innings.

Memphis hung onto that slim lead until the 9th inning when they added some insurance runs on Descalso's two-run single.

Bobby Blevins started for the Isotopes and allowed 4 runs and 6 hits in 5 innings.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x4, 1 R, .286 AVG
Xavier Paul: 1x1 1 2B (13), .348 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The Isotopes record is 37-37, the first time the Isotopes have been at the .500 mark since May 20th. . . . Albuquerque has lost their last three games to the Redbirds at Isotopes Park. . . . Michael Restovich set an Isotope season-worst with four strikeouts in the game. . . . The series continues Sunday evening. Probables are RHP Claudio Vargas (0-1, 1.35) for the Isotopes and LHP Evan MacLane (4-7, 4.62) for the Redbirds.

Filed 06/26/2010

June 25, 2010 - Isotopes (37-36)

Dell Diamond

Albuquerque    101 010 000 --  3  10  0
Round Rock     100 410 12x --  9  16  1

WP: Brad Thompson (1-2)
LP: Jesus Castillo (0-1)


HR: ALB Xavier Paul (11) off Wright (3rd inning)

    RR Brian Bogusevic (8) off Castillo (5th inning)

TIME: 3:08
ATT: 9,421
Jesus Castillo made his Triple-A debut for the Isotopes and allowed 6 runs and 9 hits in 5 innings to the Express as the Round Rock Express (AAA Astros) won the series finale 9-3 on Friday evening. The Isotopes have lost three out of their last four games.

Albuquerque wasted no time taking a 1-0 lead. Xavier Paul led off the game with a single, took second base on a wild pitch, stole third base and scored on Jay Gibbons' single. The Express tied the game in the bottom half of the inning when Ramon Vazquez singled home a run.

Paul solo-homered in the 3rd inning as Albuquerque took a 2-1 lead before the Express plated four runs in the 4th inning to take a commanding 5-2 lead. In that 4th inning, Kevin Cash had an RBI single, Yordany Ramirez had a run-scoring double, and Isotopes starter Castillo uncorked a wild pitch that brought two runs home.

Paul singled and scored on Michael Restovich's double for Albuquerque's final run in the 5th inning, and Round Rock got that run back with a Brian Bogusevic solo homer.

Cash singled home Andrew Locke in the 7th inning and Vazquez sacrifice flied out and Locke had a ground-rule double RBI in the 8th inning for Round Rock's final runs of the game.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x5, 2 K, .283 AVG
Xavier Paul: 3x3, 3 R, 1 HR (11), 1 RBI (31), .344 AVG
Lucas May: 1x4, .309 AVG
Josh Lindblom: 1 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 0 K, 0 HR, WP, 6.47 ERA


'TOPES NOTES:
The Commissioner of Baseball was just a little slow in updating his web page. In this space yesterday, it was said that Isotopes OF Prentice Redman's suspension did not appear to be related to a performance- enhancing drug since the Commissioner's webpage did not have any info. On Friday, the Commissioner's webpage was updated and now the world knows that Redman was suspended 50 games for his first violation of the Minor League Drug Prevention and Treatment Program. Redman tested positive for an amphetamine, considered a performance enhancing substance. Redman was hitting .332 with 10 homers and 41 RBI at the time of his suspension. Redman is eligible to rejoin the Isotopes in mid-August with about 21 games left in the season. Redman is not the only Isotope to violate the Minor League Drug Prevention and Treatment Program. In 2005 when the Isotopes were affiliated with the Florida Marlins, Wilson Delgado violated the program twice that season and Matt Padgett tested positive once. It is hard to tell what effect this suspension will have on Redman's career after the 2010 season. For Delgado, he never played professional baseball ever again after the 2005 season. For Padgett, he played two more seasons in Minor League Baseball and then continued his career in independent league baseball where he is still actively playing. . . . In better news, the Isotopes announced the 2010 Albuquerque Baseball Hall of Fame inductees. Former Dukes outfielder Joe Simpson, former Dukes infielder Jack Perconte, former Dukes General Manager Charlie Blaney, and former Dukes and Isotopes broadcaster Mike Roberts will be inducted into the Albuquerque Baseball Hall of Fame in a pre-game ceremony on July 17th as part of Dukes Retro Night. . . . P Charlie Haeger may rejoin the Isotopes soon but not on a rehabilitation assignment. Haeger, out of options, was designated for assignment by the Dodgers on Friday and the Dodgers recalled P Jon Link from the Isotopes. If stars all align right, Haeger may clear waivers and be sent to Albuquerque. . . . The Express took three out of the four games in the series from the Isotopes and 31,936 attended for a per-game average of 7,984. . . . The loss was Tim Wallach's 100th regular season loss as Isotopes manager. Wallach is 117-100 as the Isotopes skipper in 2009 and 2010. . . . Xavier Paul left the game in the 6th inning with an injured ankle after he was hit by a pitch. . . . Lucas May singled to extend his hitting streak to 7 games, while Ivan DeJesus Jr. went hitless in five at-bats to snap a 6-game hitting streak. . . . Round Rock third baseman Matt Kata had an extremely short night. Kata was ejected by third base umpire Jeff Latter in the 1st inning for arguing that Xavier Paul should have been out rather than called safe when Paul stole third base. . . . The Isotopes start a homestand on Saturday evening by welcoming the Memphis Redbirds (AAA Cardinals) to town. Probables in the opener are RHP Bobby Blevins (0-0, 3.00) for the Isotopes and RHP Brandon Dickson (7-4, 2.90) for the Redbirds.

Filed 06/25/2010

June 24, 2010 - Isotopes (37-35)





Dell Diamond

Albuquerque    000 120 010 --  4  10  0
Round Rock     000 000 200 --  2   6  2

WP: Alberto Bastardo (2-0)
LP: Shane Louix (2-3)
SV: Scott Dohmann (7)

TIME: 2:53
ATT: 7,812
Isotopes starter Alberto Bastardo had an excellent outing, only ruined when he hit a wall in the 7th inning as the Isotopes snapped a two-game losing streak with a 4-2 victory over the Round Rock Express (AAA Astros) on Thursday evening.

The game was scoreless until the 4th inning when Ivan DeJesus Jr. doubled and scored on Jay Gibbons' single.

The Isotopes loaded the bases with two outs in the 5th inning and Xavier Paul came through with a two-run single to extend the Isotopes lead to 3-0.

Bastardo dominated the Express, not allowing a baserunner to second base through the first 6 innings, until he got into trouble in the 7th inning. After getting Brian Bogusevic to ground out, Bastardo allowed a single to Tommy Everidge and walked Matt Kata. Andrew Locke popped out on the infield-fly rule before David Cook doubled home Everidge and Kata. Bastardo was pulled from the game and Isotopes reliever Jon Link got a pop-out to end the inning.

Albuquerque took advantage of some Round Rock generosity in the 8th inning to extend their lead to the final score of 4-2. Jamie Hoffmann singled and advanced to second base on a fielding error on the play. A throwing error on a pickoff attempt allowed Hoffmann to end up on third base and Chin-Lung Hu laid down a sacrifice bunt to bring home Hoffmann.

Bastardo's final line was 6 2/3 innings pitched with 5 hits and 2 runs allowed, just one Express walked and two Express batters fanned.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 3x5, 1 R, 1 2B (18), 1 K, .289 AVG
Xavier Paul: 1x4, 2 RBI (30), 1 BB, 2 K, .331 AVG
Lucas May: 2x4, 1 K, .310 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
There were three Isotope transactions on Thursday, one of them coming as somewhat of a shocker. OF Prentice Redman was suspended with no reason made public. A check of the MLB Commissioner's website does not yield any info about Redman, so it appears Redman was not suspended due to use of a performance-enhancing drug or a drug of abuse. The other transaction was P Travis Schlichting being returned to Albuquerque to free up roster room on the Dodgers to activate knuckeballer P Charlie Haeger, who was recalled from his rehabilitation assignment. . . . In former Isotopes news, OF Jason Repko was called up by the Twins. If he makes an appearance with the Twins, it will be the second major league club Repko has played for. . . . Tonight was Albuquerque's 72nd played game of the season, marking the halfway point. The Isotopes are 37-35 and have a winning record at the mid-season point for the first time since 2007 when the club was also 37-35. The Isotopes have a winning record at the mid-season point in five out of their eight seasons of play. . . . Express pitching has done a good job of keeping Isotope hitters in the ballpark. The Isotopes have gone homerless in this series so far (3 games). . . . The series (and Isotopes eight-game roadtrip) concludes with a Friday evening contest at Dell Diamond. Probables are RHP Jesus Castillo (No Record) who is making his Triple-A debut with the Isotopes and LHP Wesley Wright (3-0, 4.93) for the Express.

Filed 06/24/2010

June 23, 2010 - Isotopes (36-35)





Dell Diamond

Albuquerque    000 300 000 --  3   8  0
Round Rock     300 013 00x --  7  12  1

WP: Andy Van Hekken (4-4)
LP: Seth Etherton (2-2)

HR: RR Drew Meyer (2) off Calero (6th inning)

TIME: 2:43
ATT: 7,091
Round Rock Express (AAA Astros) starter Andy Van Hekken tossed a complete game against the Isotopes and the Express plated the winning margin of four runs in the 5th and 6th innings after the Isotopes tied the game to hand Albuquerque a 7-3 loss on Wednesday evening. The Isotopes have lost two straight.

Round Rock took a 3-0 lead in the 1st inning on Andrew Locke's two-run double and David Cook's single.

Albuquerque rallied for 3 runs to tie the game in the 4th inning. Prentice Redman, Michael Restovich and Russ Mitchell all singled with Mitchell's single driving in Redman. A fielding error on the play allowed Mitchell to advance to second base. Lucas May singled home Restovich and Justin Sellers walked to load the bases. Isotopes starter Seth Etherton then singled home Mitchell.

Matt Kata doubled and scored on Yordany Ramirez's single in the 5th inning as the Express reclaimed the lead and the Express secured the game with a three-run 6th inning highlighted by Drew Meyer's two run homer and Cook's second run-scoring single of the game.

Etherton allowed four runs and 9 hits in 5 innings while taking the loss.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Xavier Paul: 0x4, .333 AVG
Lucas May: 1x4, 1 RBI (31), .311 AVG
Josh Lindblom: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 0 K, 0 HR, 6.59 ERA


'TOPES NOTES:
After a three day period void of transactions, the Isotopes roster was slammed with several transactions on Wednesday. The Dodgers activated IF Rafael Furcal off the Bereavement List and optioned IF Chin-Lung Hu to Albuquerque. The Dodgers also signed free agent P Jesus Colome and assigned him to Albuquerque. P James Adkins and P Jesus Castillo were both promoted from Class-AA Chattanooga and P Cody White was sent to the Rookie-level Arizona League Dodgers. Finally, C Esteban Lopez (left ankle strain) and P Tim Corcoran (right elbow strain) were both placed on the Isotopes disabled list. . . . The series continues on Thursday evening. Probables are LHP Alberto Bastardo (1-0, 5.25) for the Isotopes and RHP Shane Loux (2-3, 6.59) for the E-train.

Filed 06/23/2010

June 22, 2010 - Isotopes (36-34)





Dell Diamond

Albuquerque    000 000 100 --  1  10  1
Round Rock     200 000 00x --  2   8  1

WP: Bud Norris (1-0)
LP: Claudio Vargas (0-1)
SV: Roy Corcoran (5)

TIME: 2:44
ATT: 7,612
The Isotopes were tough luck losers in their series opener in Round Rock on Tuesday night. Isotopes starter Claudio Vargas allowed two unearned runs in 3 2/3 innings and the Isotopes had 10 hits to outhit the Round Rock Express (AAA Astros) but were only able to push across a single run in a 2-1 loss.

In the 1st inning, Drew Meyer doubled with one out. After Brian Bogusevic struck out for the second out of the inning, Matt Kata struck out swinging but reached first on a passed ball. Meyer scored on a throwing error by Isotopes catcher Lucas May trying to complete the strikeout and Kata advanced to second base on the error and scored on Oswaldo Navarro's single as the Express led 2-0.

Albuquerque pushed across their lone run in the 7th inning. JD Closser and Justin Sellers singled and pinch-hitter Timo Perez grounded into a double play with Closser scoring.

The Isotopes blew a great opportunity in the 9th inning to tie the game or take the lead. Michael Restovich flew out to start the frame and May and Closser singled and Sellers walked to load the bases. Pinch-hitter Prentice Redman struck out swinging and Jamie Hoffmann lined out to end the threat and the game.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Xavier Paul: 1x3, 1 BB, .342 AVG
Lucas May: 2x4, .313 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
For the third day in a row, there have not been any transactions. Do not expect the trend to continue as the Dodgers will make some moves soon that could affect the Isotopes. The Dodgers announced that P Charlie Haeger will make the start against the Angels in their interleague series matchup on Thursday. IF Rafael Furcal is expected to be activated from the Bereavement List soon and P Chad Billingsley could be activated next week from the major league Disabled List. . . . P James McDonald may be close to a return to the Isotopes. McDonald was sent to the Arizona League Dodgers (Rookie level) and made his first AZL Dodgers start on Tuesday evening against the Arizona League Reds. McDonald tossed 2 innings, allowed a walk and struck out 3. . . . JD Closser had a four-hit game. . . . John Bowker of the Fresno Grizzlies (AAA Giants) is the PCL Hitter of the Week. Bowker hit .360 (9x25) with 4 homers and 8 RBI. . . . Former-Isotope Chris Seddon of the Tacoma Rainiers (AAA Mariners) is the PCL Pitcher of the Week. Seddon won both of his starts during the award week and had a 0.00 ERA. Seddon had a complete game in one of his starts and in 14 combined innings, allowed no runs, 8 hits, walked 2 and struck out 9. . . . The series continues on Wednesday evening. Probables are RHP Seth Etherton (2-1, 4.07) for the Isotopes and LHP Andy Van Hekken (3-4, 3.80) for the Express.

Filed 06/22/2010

June 21, 2010 - Isotopes (36-33)





Principal Park

Albuquerque    105 300 061 --  16  12  1
Iowa           130 032 300 --  12  17  2

WP: Jesus Rodriguez (1-1)
LP: John Gaub (3-2)
SV: Jon Link (4)

HR: ALB Lucas May (8) off Atkins (3rd inning)
    ALB JD Closser (3) off Atkins (3rd inning)
    ALB Xavier Paul (10) off Atkins (4th inning)
    ALB Michael Restovich (8) off Schlitter (8th inning)

    IWA Brad Snyder (9) off Blevins (6th inning)

TIME: 3:39
ATT: 7,500
When the final out was recorded, Iowa Cubs (AAA Cubs) fans must not have known what to think. Principal Park, known for its usually low scoring contests, played more like Isotopes Park on Monday afternoon as the Isotopes outslugged the Cubs 16-12. Albuquerque has won two straight games.

Jamie Hoffmann manufactured Albuquerque's first run of the game in the 1st inning. Hoffmann reached on an error to lead off the game, stole second base, tagged up and advanced to third base on Prentice Redman's flyout, and scored on Jay Gibbons' single.

Bryan LaHair singled home Iowa's first run in the bottom of the 1st inning to tie the game and Iowa took the lead in the 2nd inning with three runs to lead 4-1.

The Isotopes regained the lead in the 3rd inning. Redman and Gibbons singled and Russ Mitchell walked to load the bases and Lucas May cleared them with a grand-slam homer. JD Closser followed with a solo homer to give Albuquerque a 6-4 lead.

The Isotopes added three more runs for a 9-4 lead in the 4th inning when Redman walked, Gibbons doubled and Xavier Paul three-run homered.

The Isotopes proceeded to squander that five run cushion starting in the 5th inning when Iowa scored three runs and Brad Snyder's solo homer was part of a two-run 6th inning as Iowa tied the game at 9-9.

Iowa took a 12-9 lead in the bottom of the 7th inning when Snyder singled home two runs and LaHair sacrifice flied out to bring home a run.

Albuquerque rallied in the 8th inning to regain the lead for good. Timo Perez walked and scored on Hoffmann's triple. Redman singled home Hoffmann and Gibbons and Russ Mitchell drew walks to load the bases. Pinch-hitter Michael Restovich belted Albuquerque's second grand-slam homer of the game to give the Isotopes a 15-12 lead. All six of Albuquerque's runs in the inning came after the first two batters were out.

Redman singled home Justin Sellers with the final run of the game in the 9th inning.

Isotopes starter Tim Corcoran was hit hard in the game, allowing 7 runs and 10 hits in 4 innings. Cubs starter Mitch Atkins did not fare much better, allowing 9 runs and 8 hits in 4 innings.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Xavier Paul: 1x4, 1 R, 1 HR (10), 3 RBI (28), 1 K, .342 AVG
Lucas May: 1x4, 1 R, 1 HR (8), 4 RBI (30), 1 BB, .308 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The Isotopes and Cubs split the series, Albuquerque's ninth series split of the season. 38,437 attended the four game series at Principal Park for a per-game average of 9,609. . . . Albuquerque tied a season-best for most runs in a game (16) and set season highs for most combined runs in a game (28) and longest 9-inning game (3 hours, 39 minutes). The 28 combined runs is a franchise record for a road game. . . . Lucas May has homered in back to back contests. . . . Michael Restovich belted Albuquerque's second pinch-hit grand slam homer in franchise history. Restovich's homer was the 14th Isotope pinch-hit homer in history and his second pinch-hit homer of the season. . . . Albuquerque tied a franchise record with 2 grand slams in a game. The only other time the feat was accomplished was more unique -- there were two grand slams in the same inning on April 13, 2003. . . . The Isotopes conclude their roadtrip with a four-game series in Round Rock, Texas against the Round Rock Express (AAA Astros). Probables in the opener on Tuesday evening are RHP Claudio Vargas (0-0, 3.00) for the Isotopes and RHP Bud Norris (0-0, 5.19) for the Express. Norris is making his third major league rehabilitation assignment start for Round Rock.

Filed 06/21/2010

June 20, 2010 - Isotopes (35-33)





Principal Park

Albuquerque    000 011 101 --  4  9  0
Iowa           000 000 000 --  0  3  0

WP: Charlie Haeger (1-1)
LP: Casey Coleman (6-6)

HR: ALB Lucas May (7) off Russell (7th inning)
    ALB Jay Gibbons (10) off Russell (6th inning)

TIME: 2:30
ATT: 8,846
Charlie Haeger made his second rehabilitation assignment start for Albuquerque and combined with Josh Lindblom and Scott Dohmann on a three hit shutout and Lucas May and Jay Gibbons provided the power as Albuquerque defeated the Iowa Cubs (AAA Cubs) 4-0 on Father's Day afternoon in Des Moines, Iowa. The Isotopes snapped a three-game losing streak with the victory.

In the 5th inning, Xavier Paul singled, advanced to third base on Jamie Hoffmann's double and scored on Justin Sellers' sacrifice flyout as the Isotopes scored the only run they would need.

Jay Gibbons solo homered in the 6th inning and Lucas May solo homered in the 7th inning as the Isotopes led 3-0.

In the 9th inning, Russ Mitchell doubled, advanced to third base on Paul's groundout, and scored on Hoffmann's single for the final run of the game.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x4, 2 K, .282 AVG
Xavier Paul: 2x4, 1 R, .345 AVG
Lucas May: 1x3, 1 R, 1 HR (7), 1 RBI (26), 1 BB, .310 AVG
Josh Lindblom: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 1 K, 0 HR, BALK, 6.75 ERA

DODGERS Rehab Report

Charlie Haeger: W (1-1). 6 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 4 BB, 4 K, 0 HR, WP, HBP, 4.22 ERA

Haeger made his possibly final rehabilitation assignment start for the Isotopes and did not allow any extra base hits among his two hits allowed. Only one Iowa Cub made it to third base during Haeger's outing and the Isotopes turned two double-plays in support of Haeger to help him work out of potential run-scoring rallies.

'TOPES NOTES:
There were no Isotopes transactions on Sunday, but there was news about a recent former Isotope. IF Nick Green, who requested his release from the Dodgers organization last week, signed a major league contract with the Toronto Blue Jays and is a part of their 25-man active roster. Green made his Blue Jays debut on Sunday as a late-game replacement at shortstop and flew out in his only at-bat. . . . Albuquerque is 5-3 on Father's Day with a four game winning streak. Today's victory was their first Father's Day road win. . . . The shutout was Albuquerque's third of the season. . . . Albuquerque's homers today snapped an uncharacteristic two-game stretch of games without a homer. . . . Ivan DeJesus Jr. was ejected by Home Plate umpire Dixon Stureman in the 8th inning for arguing balls and strikes after having been called out on strikes. . . . The series concludes with another afternoon contest. Probables are RHP Tim Corcoran (5-6, 5.40) for the Isotopes and RHP Mitch Atkins (4-2, 2.55) for the I-Cubs.

Filed 06/20/2010

June 19, 2010 - Isotopes (34-33)





Principal Park

Albuquerque    100 001 000 000 00 --  2   7  1
Iowa           000 101 000 000 01 --  3  11  0

WP: Justin Berg (2-1)
LP: Hyang-Nam Choi (1-2)

TIME: 3:48
ATT: 11,269
Iowa Cubs (AAA Cubs) pinch-hitter James Adduci knocked in the game-winning run with a single in the bottom of the 14th inning as Iowa took a 3-2 victory over Albuquerque on Saturday evening.

In the 1st inning, Ivan DeJesus Jr. tripled and scored on Jay Gibbons' groundout as Albuquerque led 1-0.

The Cubs tied the game at 1-1 in the 4th inning when Brad Snyder walked, stole second base and scored on Welington Castillo's double.

Each team plated another run in the 6th inning. Isotopes starter Alberto Bastardo singled, advanced to second base on DeJesus Jr.'s groundout, and scored on Gibbons' double. In the bottom half of the inning, Jason Dubois walked and scored on Marquez Smith's double.

Neither team was able to get a baserunner to third base from the 7th through 12th innings. Albuquerque had an opportunity to break the deadlocked game in the 13th inning. JD Closser opened the inning with a single and Justin Sellers sacrifice bunted Closser to second base. Closser advanced to third base on Jamie Hoffmann's groundout before being stranded when Timo Perez grounded out.

Iowa finally broke the tie in the 14th inning. Castillo singled with one out, Smith singled and Adduci singled home Castillo with the game-winning run.

Bastardo had a solid start for Albuquerque, allowing 2 runs and 7 hits in 6 innings while walking 3 and striking out 5.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x6, 1 R, 1 3B (1), 1 K, .283 AVG
Xavier Paul: 0x6, 2 K, .340 AVG
Lucas May: 1x1, .309 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
Just as sure as the sun rises in the east in the morning, the Isotopes had more transactions on Saturday. The Dodgers recalled P Vicente Padilla from his rehabilitation assignment. P Juan Perez was placed on the Isotopes disabled list with a right oblique strain and C Esteban Lopez was transferred from Class-R Ogden. The Isotopes appear to be done using the Rookie-level Ogden roster to stash extra players. Stashing extra players at "Ogden" will soon be out of play since the Raptors begin their short-season Pioneer League play on Monday. . . . Albuquerque is 6-3 in extra inning contests. . . . Despite the two losses so far in the series, the division-leader Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) has also lost both of their games, so Albuquerque remains 3.5 games back in the division. . . . The 14 innings was Albuquerque's longest game, innings-wise, of the season and a franchise record was tied for longest extra-innings road contest. . . . Jamie Hoffmann entered the game in the 7th inning and went 0x3 to snap a 13-game hitting streak. The current longest hitting streak belongs to Russ Mitchell, who hit safely tonight to extend his streak to 6 games. . . . The series continues with a Father's Day afternoon game. Knuckleballer RHP Charlie Haeger (0-1, 9.64) is expected to make his second Albuquerque rehabilitation assignment start and looks to improve from his last outing when he allowed a franchise record 8 walks. The Cubs are expected to counter with RHP Casey Coleman (6-5, 4.02).

Filed 06/19/2010

June 18, 2010 - Isotopes (34-32)





Principal Park

Albuquerque    100 000 200 --  3   6  0
Iowa           114 000 00x --  6  12  0

WP: J.R. Mathes (6-5)
LP: Seth Ehterton (2-1)
SV: Brian Schlitter (11)

TIME: 2:46
ATT: 10,822
The Iowa Cubs (AAA Cubs) had a four-run 3rd inning to take a close contest and open it up as they defeated the Isotopes 6-3 in the series opener in Des Moines on Friday evening.

Each team scored in the 1st inning. For Albuquerque, Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled, advanced to third base on Prentice Redman's single, and scored on Jamie Hoffmann's sacrifice flyout. Back-to-back doubles from Brad Snyder and Micah Hoffpauir plated Iowa's first run.

Bryan LaHair walked and scored on Matt Camp's triple in the 2nd inning as the Cubs took the lead and the Cubs made it 6-1 in the 3rd inning. Snyder and Hoffpauir singled and Bobby Scales doubled with Snyder scoring. LaHair doubled to drive in Hoffpauir and Scales. Chris Robinson followed with a single to drive in LaHair for the final run of the frame.

The Isotopes scored their final two runs in the 7th inning. Hoffmann doubled and scored on Mitchell's double. Mitchell advanced to third base on Michael Restovich's groundout and scored on JD Closser's single.

Isotopes starter Seth Etherton allowed all 6 Cubs runs, gave up 10 hits and fanned 6 in 6 innings as he received his first loss of the season.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x4, 1 R, .286 AVG
Xavier Paul: 0x3, .356 AVG
Lucas May: 0x1, 1 K, .305 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
P Bobby Blevins was transferred from Class-AA Chattanooga on Friday to fill the roster spot vacated by the Dodgers recalling IF Chin-Lung Hu on Thursday. . . . Michael Restovich went hitless in four at-bats to snap a 13 game hitting streak. Jamie Hoffmann doubled to extend his hitting streak to 13 games, the longest current Isotope hitting streak. . . . The series continues Saturday evening. Probables are LHP Alberto Bastardo (1-0, 7.50) for the Isotopes and RHP Thomas Diamond (5-2, 2.34) for the I-Cubs.

Filed 06/18/2010

June 17, 2010 - Isotopes (34-31)





Isotopes Park

Omaha          010 307 000 04 --  15  22  2
Albuquerque    010 202 051 01 --  12  15  1

WP: Greg Holland (2-3)
LP: Scott Dohmann (0-2)

HR: OMA Scott Thorman (9) off White (4th inning)
    OMA Kila Kaaihue (12) off Vargas (2nd inning)
    OMA Ed Lucas (2) off White (6th ining)

    ALB Xavier Paul (9) off Hernandez (4th inning)
    ALB Russ Mitchell (8) off Rupe (9th inning)
    ALB Lucas May (6) off Hernandez (6th inning)
    ALB Prentice Redman (10) off Hernandez (6th inning)

TIME: 4:29
ATT: 8,086
The nearly four and a half hour marathon saw several things. The game started with a player looking to earn his way back onto a major league roster then a promising young Isotopes pitcher who was pitching well in previous appearances got rocked hard, the Isotopes came up with a franchise record-tying eight run rally and the night ended with the Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) plating four runs in the 11th inning to secure a 15-12 victory over Albuquerque in the series finale at "The Lab" on Thursday evening.

Each team scored in the 2nd inning. Kila Kaaihue solo homered for Omaha and Michael Restovich walked, advanced to third base on Jamie Hoffmann's double, and scored on Prentice Redman's sacrifice flyout for the Isotopes.

Scott Thorman's two-run homer was part of a three run inning as the Royals grabbed a 4-1 lead.

Albuquerque edged to a run down in their half of the 4th inning. Xavier Paul solo homered and singles from Restovich, Russ Mitchell, and Lucas May scored Restovich.

Omaha thought they put the game away with a seven run 6th inning, highlighted by Ed Lucas's two run homer and Thorman's three-run double.

The next eight runs belonged to Albuquerque. In the 6th inning, May and Redman each solo homered.

Albuquerque rallied for five more runs in the 8th inning to trail 11-10. Hoffmann reached on a throwing error, Redman walked, and after Mitchell infield-flied out, May doubled home Hoffmann. Justin Sellers struck out but reached on a wild pitch as Redman scored. Timo Perez singled home May and Ivan DeJesus Jr. reached on a fielder's choice with Sellers out at third base. Paul followed with a double to drive in Perez and DeJesus Jr..

Mitchell's solo homer in the 9th inning capped the Isotope comeback and the game went into extra innings.

In the Omaha 11th inning, David Lough singled, stole seconed base and scored on Lucas' single to break the tie. Pinch-hitter Marc Maddox singled and Irving Falu tripled home Lucas and Maddox. Kurt Mertins singled to drive in Falu as Omaha led 15-11.

The Isotopes managed to just tally once in their half of the 11th inning. Sellers singled, DeJesus Jr. singled an out later and Paul walked to load the bases. After Restovich popped out on the infield fly rule, Hoffmann was hit by a pitch to bring home Sellers and Redman flied out to end the contest.

Claudio Vargas, recently released from the Milwaukee Brewers, tossed three innings and allowed a run and 2 hits while fanning four Royals. Cody White relieved Vargas and tossed the next four innings, getting hit hard for 10 runs on 12 hits.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x7, 1 R, 1 H, .286 AVG
Xavier Paul: 2x4, 1 R, 1 2B (12), 1 HR (9), 3 RBI (25), 3 BB, 2 K, .364 AVG
Lucas May: 3x4, 2 R, 1 2B (9), 1 HR (6), 3 RBI (25), 0 BB, 1 K, .307 AVG
Josh Lindblom: 1 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 1 K, 0 HR, 6.96 ERA


'TOPES NOTES:
The Dodgers placed IF Rafael Furcal on the Bereavement List and recalled IF Chin-Lung Hu from Albuquerque. No transaction has happened yet to fill the roster spot left by Hu's promotion. . . . The Isotopes and Royals split the four-game series and 30,091 attended for a per-game average of 7,523. Tonight's game marked the final regular season matchup at Isotopes Park between the two clubs and Omaha took five out of the eight games. Albuquerque travels to Omaha for a five game series to complete the 16-game season series. Four of the games are regularly scheduled and one game is a makeup game for a contest that was postponed due to weather the first time Albuquerque went to Omaha this season. . . . The Isotopes are 3.5 games back of the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) in the division, the most games out of first place that the Isotopes have been all season. . . . Promising young Isotopes pitcher Cody White allowed 7 runs in 16 2/3 innings prior to tonight. He allowed more runs (10) in just four innings tonight than he did in previous relief and starting outings. White's 10 runs allowed and 12 hits allowed set Isotope franchise records for most runs and hits allowed by an Isotope reliever in a game. . . . Long hitting streaks extended in the game included Michael Restovich (13 games) and Jamie Hoffmann (12 games). . . . The Isotopes established season-bests in largest comeback to tie a game (8 runs), longest gametime of the season (4 hours, 29 minutes), most walks drawn in a game (10) and most combined hits in a contest (37). . . . Russ Mitchell has homered in back-to-back games and three out of the four games in the series. . . . The Isotopes head on an eight-game roadtrip starting on Friday night. The Isotopes head to Des Moines for the first time this season to play a four-game series against the Iowa Cubs (AAA Cubs). Probables in the opener are RHP Seth Etherton (2-0, 3.25) for the Isotopes and LHP J.R. Mathes (5-5, 4.64) for the I-Cubs.

Filed 06/17/2010

June 16, 2010 - Isotopes (34-30)





Isotopes Park

Omaha          010 032 000 --   6  10  1
Albuquerque    101 420 33x --  14  16  3

WP: Tim Corcoran (5-6)
LP: Luis Mendoza (4-5)

HR: ALB Russ Mitchell (6) off Mendoza (5th inning)
    ALB Russ Mitchell (7) off Hardy (7th inning)
    ALB Michael Restovich (7) off Holland (8th inning)

TIME: 2:49
ATT: 6,127
Russ MItchell homered twice and drove in four runs and the Isotopes offense erupted for 14 runs in a 14-6 victory over the Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) on Wednesday evening at "The Lab".

Jay Gibbons reached on a fielder's choice and scored on Michael Restovich's double in the 1st inning as Albuquerque took a quick lead before the Royals tied the game in the 2nd inning on Jordan Parraz's run-scoring groundout.

Back-to-back doubles from Xavier Paul and Ivan DeJesus Jr. gave the Isotopes the lead again and Albuquerque added some breathing room in the 4th inning. Prentice Redman walked with one out and Mitchell singled. Lucas May followed with a single that drove in Redman and an out later, Paul singled home Mitchell and May. Paul took second on the throw and scored on DeJesus Jr.'s single as the Isotopes led 6-1.

The Royals rallied to get three of those runs back to trail 6-4 before Mitchell homered with Hoffmann on base to extend Albuquerque's lead to 8-4.

Irving Falu's two-run single in the 6th inning got Omaha back to two runs down at 8-6.

Albuquerque turned the game into a rout starting in the 7th inning. Restovich legged out a triple and scored on Hoffmann's single. Mitchell completed the three-run outburst in the inning with his second homer of the night, a two-run shot.

Albuquerque closed out the scoring in the 8th inning. Paul doubled, advanced to third base on DeJesus Jr.'s groundout and scored on Gibbons' single. Restovich followed with a two-run homer.

Tim Corcoran started for the Isotopes and allowed 6 runs (5 earned) and 7 hits in 5 2/3 innings.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 3x5, 1 2B (17), 2 RBI (24), 1 K, .291 AVG
Xavier Paul: 3x5, 3 R, 2 2B (11), 2 RBI (22), 1 K, .359 AVG
Lucas May: 1x4, 1 R, 1 RBI (22), 2 K, .296 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
Another day, more Isotope transactions. IF Nick Green was released and OF Timo Perez was added back to the Isotopes roster from Class-R Ogden. The Dodgers also signed P Claudio Vargas to a free-agent contract and assigned him to Albuquerque. Vargas, recently released by the Milwaukee Brewers, is no stranger to the Isotopes, having been in Albuquerque in 2009 on a rehabilitation assignment. . . . Albuquerque had three errors in the game and it was the first victory of the season when the Isotopes have had more than 2 errors. . . . The Isotopes are 11-1 when they plate 10 or more runs in a game. . . . Michael Restovich extended his hitting streak to 12 games, while Jamie Hoffmann is right on his heels with an 11 game hitting streak. . . . Restovich had three hits in the game and was a single shy of hitting for the cycle. . . . Tim Corcoran took over the team lead in victories with his 5th winning decision tonight. James McDonald, currently still on the disabled list, is in second place with four victories. . . . The series and quick four-game homestand concludes on Thursday evening. While former-Isotope RHP Gaby Hernandez (5-4, 5.18) is expected to start for the Royals, the Isotopes probable is unclear. Many sources have LHP Cody White as the probable, but it might be RHP Claudio Vargas, based on a Los Angeles Times article that mentioned Vargas would be starting on Thursday for Albuquerque.

Filed 06/16/2010

June 15, 2010 - Isotopes (33-30)





Isotopes Park

Omaha          011 230 040 --  11  12  1
Albuquerque    001 020 023 --   8  10  4

WP: Bryan Bullington (3-0)
LP: Charlie Haeger (0-1)

HR: OMA Marc Maddox (1) off Haeger (2nd inning)
    OMA Rick Ankiel (2) off Haeger (4th inning)

    ALB Prentice Redman (9) off Bullington (3rd inning)

TIME: 2:52
ATT: 7,925
Isotopes knuckleballer Charlie Haeger, made a rehabilitation assignment start for Albuquerque and was roughed up for six runs in 4 2/3 innings of work and the Isotopes rallied for five runs over the final two frames but the rally came up short in a 11-8 loss to the Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) on Tuesday evening.

Marc Maddox solo homered in the 2nd inning and Kila Kaaihue scored on a bases-loaded wild pitch in the 3rd inning as the Royals took a 2-0 lead.

Prentice Redman solo homered to center field in the bottom of the 3rd inning to halve the defecit at 2-1.

Maddox doubled and scored on Rick Ankiel's second homer in as many nights in the 4th inning as the Royals extended their lead to 4-1 and the Royals added three more runs in the 5th inning.

In Albuquerque's half of the 5th inning, Justin Sellers and Chin-Lung Hu singled with one out and Redman grounded out as both runners advanced into scoring position. Xavier Paul singled them home as Albuquerque trailed 7-3.

The four run defecit held until the 8th inning when Omaha added four runs to the scoreboard on run-scoring singles from Maddox and Cody Clark and a two-run Irving Falu double.

Facing an eight-run defecit, the Isotopes did not go quietly into the night. In the 8th inning, Redman and Jamie Hoffmann drew walks and Jay Gibbons doubled home Redman. Hoffmann advanced to third base on Gibbons' double and scored on Michael Restovich's groundout.

Albuquerque added three more runs in their 9th inning. JD Closser reached on an error and advanced to second base on Sellers' groundout. Hu singled and Redman walked to load the bases and Paul reached on a fielder's choice with Closser scoring and Redman out at second base. Hoffmann doubled home Hu and Paul before Gibbons struck out to end the game.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Xavier Paul: 1x5, 1 R, 3 RBI (20), .350 AVG

DODGERS Rehab Report

Charlie Haeger: L (0-1), 4.2 IP, 4 H, 6 R, 5 ER, 8 BB, 4 K, 2 HR, 9.64 ERA

Haeger made his first rehabilitation assignment start for Albuquerque. All four hits allowed went for extra bases and three of the eight batters walked scored. Haeger allowed all Royals homers in the game.

'TOPES NOTES:
The Dodgers recalled P Travis Schlichting from the Isotopes after P Chad Billingsley was placed on the major league disabled list with a groin injury. . . . The Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) defeated the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) in 10 innings, so the Isotopes defeat moved them to 2 games back of the Redhawks in the PCL American Conference Southern Division. . . . Albuquerque committed four errors in a game for the second time in 2010 - both games were losses. . . . Charlie Haeger set an Isotopes team record with 8 walks in a game. The Isotopes pitching staff had 12 walks on the night, tying a franchise record. . . . Michael Restovich hit safely to extend his hitting streak to 11 games. Jamie Hoffmann doubled to extend his hitting streak to 10 games. . . . The series continues on Wednesday evening. Probables are RHP Tim Corcoran (4-6, 5.15) for the Isotopes and RHP Luis Mendoza (4-4, 2.88) for the Lil' Kings.

Filed 06/15/2010

June 14, 2010 - Isotopes (33-29)





Isotopes Park

Omaha          210 002 110 --  7  13  1
Albuquerque    200 150 00x --  8  13  0

WP: Alberto Bastardo (1-0)
LP: Everett Teaford (0-1)
SV: Scott Dohmann (6)

HR: OMA Jordan Parraz (4) off Bastardo (2nd inning)
    OMA Jordan Parraz (5) off Bastardo (6th inning)
    OMA Jai Miller (6) off Lindblom (8th inning)
    OMA Rick Ankiel (1) off Bastardo (1st inning)

    ALB Lucas May (5) off Teaford (4th inning)
    ALB Chin-Lung Hu (3) off Teaford (5th inning)
    ALB Russ Mitchell (5) off Herges (5th inning)

TIME: 2:40
ATT: 7,953
The Isotopes plated five runs in the 5th inning and held off a Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) later-innings rally as Albuquerque won 8-7 to move to a game back of the Oklahoma City Redhawks in the PCL American Conference Southern Division.

Omaha did not waste any time getting on the scoreboard. Rick Ankiel solo homered with one out and Alex Gordon doubled and scored on Kurt Mertins double.

The Isotopes responded to tie the game at 2-2 in the home half of the 1st inning. Justin Sellers singled, Xavier Paul doubled, and Jamie Hoffmann reached on a fielder's choice with Sellers tagged out. Paul made it to third base while Hoffmann went to second base on the play. Jay Gibbons grounded out to bring home Paul and Michael Restovich singled home Hoffmann.

Jordan Parraz solo homered in the 2nd inning as Omaha regained the lead before Albuquerque re-knotted the game in the 4th inning on Lucas May's solo homer.

Albuquerque's big 5th inning starte off with a Chin-Lung Hu solo homer. Two outs later, Hoffmann walked, Gibbons singled and Michael Restovich tripled them both home. Russ Mitchell followed with a two-run homer as Albuquerque led 8-3.

Mertkins singled and scored on Parraz's two-run homer in the 6th inning as Omaha started to edge closer to the Isotopes.

Back-to-back doubles from Gordon and Kila Kaaihue in the 7th inning and former-Isotope Jai Miller's solo homer in the 8th inning brought Omaha to a run down but that was as close as they would get to tying the game.

Isotopes starter Alberto Bastardo tossed 6 innings, allowing 9 hits and 5 runs while fanning 5. Bastardo tied an Isotope season-worst by allowing 3 homers.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Xavier Paul: 1x4, 1 R, 1 2B (9), 1 BB, 2 K, .356 AVG
Lucas May: 2x4, 1 R, 1 2B (8), 1 HR (5), 1 RBI (21), 2 K, .297 AVG
Josh Lindblom: 1 IP, 1 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 0 BB, 0 K, 1 HR, 7.10 ERA


'TOPES NOTES:
In Isotopes transactions, P Josh Lindblom was transferred from Class-R Ogden to Albuquerque to join the Isotopes bullpen and P Bobby Blevins was transferred from Albuquerque to Class-AA Chattanooga. Blevins was outstanding in his first start for Chattanooga tonight as he retired the first 15 Mississippi Braves batters he faced and didn't allow his first hit until the 5th inning in Chattanooga's 11-3 rout of the Braves. In one other transaction, the Dodgers assigned P Charlie Haeger to Albuquerque as Haeger continues his minor league rehabilitation assignment by going from Class-A Inland Empire to the Triple-A level. . . . P Brent Leach was suspended by the Southern League on Monday with no reason given for the suspension. Leach was sent to Class-AA Chattanooga recently and has yet to appear in a game for the Lookouts since the transfer. In Leach's last Isotopes start on June 7th, Leach was ejected in the 2nd inning for beaming Memphis catcher Bryan Anderson with a pitch, so the suspension may be from this incident. . . . The Isotopes are 12-11 in one-run contests. . . . The Royals and Isotopes combined for an Isotope season-high 7 homers in a game. . . . Michael Restovich extended his hitting streak to 10 games with a two-hit night and Jamie Hoffmann singled to extend his hitting streak to 9 games. . . . Albuquerque eclipsed the 200,000 season home attendance mark (207,504) with tonight's gate. . . . Isotopes pitching coach Jim Slaton was ejected by Home Plate umpire Michael Lusky in the 7th inning. . . . Mike Baxter of the Portland Beavers (AAA Padres) is the PCL Hitter of the Week. Baxter hit .455 (10x22) with 3 homers and 10 RBI. In one of the games during the award week, Baxter hit for the cycle and drove in 6. . . . Michael Kirkman of the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) is the PCL Pitcher of the Week. Kirkman won his only start of the award week and tossed seven innings of 3-hit, no-run ball while fanning 9. . . . The series continues on Tuesday evening. The Isotopes are expected to send RHP Charlie Haeger (No Record) to the bump as Haegar makes a rehab assignment start. The Lil' Kings have yet to name a probable.

Filed 06/14/2010

June 13, 2010 - Isotopes (32-29)





AT&T Bricktown Ballpark

Albuquerque     000 001 100 --  2  4  2
Oklahoma City   300 111 00x --  6  9  0

WP: Evan Reed (1-0)
LP: Vicente Padilla (0-1)

HR: ALB Xavier Paul (8) off Reed (6th inning)

    OKC Chad Tracy (9) off Padilla (4th inning)
    OKC Chad Tracy (10) off Padilla (6th inning)

TIME: 2:28
ATT: 5,364
With the Isotopes a half-game back of the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers), you would think that having a rehabilitating major league pitcher making the start would give you good odds of being in first place at the end of the game. On Sunday, the odds were not in Albuquerque's favor as Vicente Padilla allowed six runs in 5 2/3 innings as the Isotopes fell to the Redhawks 6-2. Albuquerque snapped a two-game winning streak and fell to 1.5 games back of the Redhawks.

In the 1st inning, Brandon Boggs doubled with one out, Mitch Moreland reached on an error, and Chris Davis singled home Boggs. Moreland advanced to third base on the hit while Davis advanced to second base on a throwing error on the play. Ryan Garko grounded out to drive in Moreland and Chad Tracy ground-rule doubled to bring Davis home as Oklahoma City led 3-0.

Tracy solo-homered in the 4th inning and Moreland sacrifice flied out to bring Esteman German home in the 5th inning as the Redhawks extended the lead to 5-0.

The two clubs exchanged solo-homers in the 6th inning. Xavier Paul went deep for Albuquerque, Tracy belted his second homer of the game for Oklahoma City.

The Isotopes plated the final run of the game in the 7th inning. Prentice Redman doubled, took third base on a wild pitch and scored on Russ Mitchell's groundout.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x1, HBP, .284 AVG
Xavier Paul: 1x4, 1 R, 1 HR (8), 1 RBI (17), 1 K, .360 AVG
Lucas May: 0x3, 1 K, .291 AVG

DODGERS Rehab Report

Vicente Padilla: ND, 5.2 IP, 8 H, 6 R, 4 ER, 0 BB, 5 K, 2 HR, WP, 6.35 ERA

Padilla allowed all six Redhawks runs, including two runs on Chad Tracy solo homers. Four of the eight hits Padilla allowed went for extra bases. It is not known at this time if the Dodgers will activate Padilla next weekend or if Padilla will need to pitch well in a Triple-A rehabilitation start in order for the Dodgers to activate him.

'TOPES NOTES:
Surprise, surprise! No new Isotope transactions today. . . . The Isotopes and Redhawks split the series, so Albuquerque leaves town no closer to the division lead than when they arrived in Oklahoma City. 30,677 attended the series for a per-game average of 7,669. Both clubs played their final game of 2010 in Oklahoma City and each team won four games. The Redhawks will play eight games in Albuquerque in two four-game series to close out the 16-game season series. . . . Ivan DeJesus Jr. left the game not long after he was hit by a pitch in the 3rd inning. . . . Lucas May went hitless in three at-bats to snap a 7-game hitting streak. Michael Restovich was one of four Isotopes to get a hit and thus extended his hitting streak to 9 games. . . . Chad Tracy seems to enjoy Isotopes pitching. Tracy has had a multihomer game twice against the Isotopes this season, each time homering twice in a game. . . . Albuquerque returns home for another quick four-game homestand. Probables for Monday evening's contest against the Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) are LHP Alberto Bastardo (No Record) for the Isotopes and pitcher to be named for the Royals.

Filed 06/13/2010

June 12, 2010 - Isotopes (32-28)





AT&T Bricktown Ballpark

Albuquerque     500 100 020 --  8  11  0
Oklahoma City   100 001 010 --  3   7  1

WP: Seth Etherton (2-0)
LP: Geoff Geary (3-5)

TIME: 3:11
ATT: 6,873
Seth Etherton had a great start, allowing 2 runs and 4 hits in 6 innings and his teammates gave him five runs of support in the 1st inning as the Isotopes defeated the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) 8-3 to move to within a half-game of the Redhawks atop the PCL American Conference Southern Division. Albuquerque has won two straight games.

In the 1st inning, Xavier Paul doubled, Ivan DeJesus Jr. reached on an error and after Jay Gibbons struck out swinging, Jamie Hoffmann singled to drive in Paul. Prentice Redman singled home DeJesus Jr. and Russ Mitchell two-run doubled to drive in Hoffmann and Redman. Mitchell stole third base before scoring on JD Closser's single.

Mitch Moreland's sacrifice flyout brought home Esteban German in the home half of the 1st inning as Okahoma City got on the scoreboard.

In the 4th inning, Nick Green tripled and scored on Chin-Lung Hu's single as the Isotopes increased their lead back to five runs at 6-1.

Ryan Garko singled home Brandon Boggs for the Redhawks in the 6th inning.

The Isotopes scored their final runs in the 8th inning. DeJesus Jr. singled and scored on Gibbons' double. Gibbons took third on Hoffmann's groundout and scored on Mitchell's groundout.

Boggs scored on Chris Davis' sacrifice flyout for the final run of the game in Oklahoma City's half of the 8th inning.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x4, 2 R, .285 AVG
Xavier Paul: 2x5, 1 R, 2 2B (8), 1 K, .364 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The Dodgers assigned P Vicente Padilla to Albuquerque on a rehabilitation assignment. Padilla is no stranger to the Isotopes, having made one start as a non-rehabbing player in 2009 before the Dodgers called him up. In 2010, Padilla has made two rehab assignment starts with Class-A Inland Empire, going 0-0 with a 1.17 ERA. If all goes well on Sunday, Padilla could rejoin the Dodgers rotation next weekend when the Dodgers visit the Red Sox in interleague play. . . . Jamie Hoffmann singled to extend his hitting streak to 8 games. All other Isotope hitters extended their streaks of shorter lengths because no Isotope hitter went hitless in the game. . . . Albuquerque failed to homer in the game, ending their streak at 10 straight games with a homer. . . . The series concludes on Sunday afternoon with Albuquerque looking for a victory to leave town in first place in the division. Probables are RHP Vicente Padilla (No Record) making a rehabilitation assignment start for Albuquerque against Oklahoma City's RHP Tanner Scheppers (1-0, 1.89).

Filed 06/12/2010

June 11, 2010 - Isotopes (31-28)





AT&T Bricktown Ballpark

Albuquerque     103 010 111 --  8  16  0
Oklahoma City   030 000 101 --  5   8  1


WP: Cody White (3-0)
LP: Doug Mathis (1-2)

HR: ALB Chin-Lung Hu (2) off Mathis (3rd inning)

TIME: 3:13
ATT: 7,312
Cody White allowed 3 runs and 4 hits in 5 innings for another great start and Jay Gibbons and Russ Mitchell drove in a pair of runs each as the Isotopes snapped a three-game losing streak with a 8-5 victory over the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) on Friday evening. Albuquerque edged to 1.5 games back of the Redhawks in the division with the victory.

The Isotopes wasted no time in taking the lead. In the 1st inning, Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled with one out, Jamie Hoffmann singled an out later, and Hoffmann stole second base while DeJesus Jr. scampered home to give Albuquerque a 1-0 lead.

Mitch Moreland two-run singled and Andy Jenkins added an RBI single as the Redhawks took a 3-1 lead in the 2nd inning.

Albuquerque regained the lead in the 3rd inning. Chin-Lung Hu led off the inning with a solo homer. Xavier Paul doubled, DeJesus Jr. singled, and Gibbons doubled them both home for an Isotope 4-3 lead.

In the 5th inning, Hoffmann singled, took third base on Prentice Redman's single, and scored on Mitchell's double, and in the 7th inning, DeJesus Jr. singled, took second base on a wild pitch, and scored on Redman's double as the Isotopes extended their lead to 6-3.

After the Redhawks plated a run in the bottom of the 7th inning, Albuquerque responded with a run in the 8th inning to extend the lead back to three runs at 7-4. Lucas May singled, advanced to second base on Nick Green's sacrifice bunt and scored on DeJesus Jr.'s ground-rule double.

Each team plated their final run in the 9th inning. In the top half, Hoffmann singled, advanced to second base on Redman's single, stole third base and scored on Mitchell's sacrifice flyout. In the bottom half, Brandon Boggs tripled and scored on Chris Davis' sacrifice flyout.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 4x5, 3 R, 1 2B (16), 1 RBI (22), 1 K, .286 AVG
Xavier Paul: 1x4, 1 R, 1 2B (6), 1 BB, 1 K, .362 AVG
Lucas May: 1x5, 1 R, 2 K, .297 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The Isotopes placed IF John Lindsey on the disabled list with a strained calf on Saturday and transferred IF Justin Sellers back from the Class-R Ogden roster. . . . In Cody White's two starts since his promotion from Class-A Inland Empire, White won both of them and tossed 10 1/3 innings, allowing 12 hits and five runs (all earned) for a 4.35 ERA. White has been somewhat wild, walking 8 batters, but he has also fanned 8. . . . Prentice Redman and Ivan DeJesus Jr. each had four hits games. Neither hitter is a stranger to 4 hits in a game as it was the second four-hit game of the season for each of them. . . . Jamie Hoffmann and Lucas May each extended their hitting streaks to 7 games. . . . The Isotopes stole a season-high four bags in the game - Redman and Hoffmann each had two steals. . . . Isotopes catcher Lucas May was ejected by home plate umpire Jeff Latter in the 9th inning for arguing a delayed called strike three. It was May's first ejection of the season. . . . The series continues on Saturday evening. Probables are RHP Seth Etherton (1-0, 3.30) for the Isotopes and a pitcher to be named for the Redhawks.

Filed 06/11/2010

June 10, 2010 - Isotopes (30-28)





AT&T Bricktown Ballpark

Albuquerque     002 004 000 --   6  11  2
Oklahoma City   406 000 00x --  10  11  0

WP: Guillermo Moscoso (3-2)
LP: Tim Corcoran (4-6)

HR: ALB Lucas May (4) off Moscoso (6th inning)
    ALB Prentice Redman (8) off Moscoso (6th inning)

TIME: 3:13
ATT: 11,128
Tim Corcoran did not have a great outing for the Isotopes, allowing 8 runs in 2 1/3 innings and the Isotopes were unable to come back from such an early defecit as the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) defeated the Isotopes 10-6 in the opener in Okahoma City. The Redhawks increased their division lead over the Isotopes to 2.5 games and the Isotopes lost their third straight contest.

In the 1st inning, Esteban German drew a leadoff walk and Gregorio Petit singled. Brandon Boggs followed with a single to drive in German and Chris Davis singled home Petit. A wild pitch moved Boggs to third base and Davis to second base before Mitch Moreland singled them home to give the Redhawks a 4-0 lead.

Nick Green bunt-singled to start the 3rd inning, Chin-Lung Hu doubled, and Jamie Hoffmann's groundout brought home Green. Ivan DeJesus Jr. sacrifice flied out to drive in Hu as the Isotopes halved the defecit at 4-2.

The Redhawks put the game away with six runs in their half of the 3rd inning, highlighted by run-scoring singles by Moreland and Hernan Iribarren, a German two-run double and a Boggs two-run single.

Albuquerque plated their final runs in the 6th inning utilizing the longball. Prentice Redman got things started with a solo homer to start the inning. Michael Restovich doubled, Russ Mitchell singled and Lucas May followed with a three-run homer.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x4, 1 RBI (21), 1 K, .273 AVG
Lucas May: 1x4, 1 R, 1 HR (4), 3 RBI (20), 1 K, .301 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
There were lots more Isotopes transactions on Thursday, all of which affected the pitching staff. P Scott Elbert was placed on the Temporary Inactive List while he continues to attend to a family matter. The Dodgers signed P Kiko Calero to a minor league deal and assigned him to Albuquerque. P Brent Leach was transferred to Class-AA Chattanooga while P Alberto Bastardo was added to the Isotopes roster from Chattanooga. Finally, P Eric Thompson was transferred to Class-R Ogden from the Isotopes. . . . The Isotopes have homered in a season-best 9 straight contests. . . . Michael Restovich's double extended his hitting streak to 8 games. . . . Tim Corcoran leads the team with 6 losses and has losing decisions in four out of his last five starts. . . . The series continues on Friday evening. Probables are LHP Cody White (2-0, 1.54) for the Isotopes and RHP Doug Mathis (1-1, 4.29) for the Redhawks.

Filed 06/10/2010

June 8, 2010 - Isotopes (30-27)





Isotopes Park

Memphis         010 001 142 --  9  14  0
Albuquerque     000 300 003 --  6   8  1


WP: Andrew Brown (1-0)
LP: Juan Perez (2-2)

HR: MEM Allen Craig (3) off Blevins (2nd inning)

    ALB JD Closser (2) off Hill (9th inning)

TIME: 3:06
ATT: 7,976
Bobby Blevins made a spot start for Albuquerque and pitched great before the bullpen gave up eight later-game runs in Albuquerque's 9-6 loss to the Memphis Redbirds (AAA Cardinals) in the series finale on Tuesday afternoon. Albuquerque has dropped two straight games.

Allen Craig solo-homered as Memphis took a 1-0 lead in the 2nd inning.

The Isotopes got on the scoreboard in the 4th inning. Jamie Hoffmann and Michael Restovich singled and each advanced a base on a wild pitch. Russ Mitchell drew a walk to load the bases and Lucas May reached on a fielder's choice with Hoffmann scoring and Mitchell out at second base. Nick Green doubled home Restovich and May to give Albuquerque a 3-1 lead.

The Redbirds started their later-game damage against the Isotopes bullpen in the 6th inning after Blevins was gone from the game. Daniel Descalso doubled and scored on Craig's double.

Jon Jay doubled home a run in the 7th inning to tie the game at 3-3 and Memphis took command of the game with a four-run 8th inning, highlighted by Joe Mather's two run triple.

Memphis added two more runs to lead 9-3 in the 9th inning when Craig doubled home a run and Ruben Gotay singled home Craig later in the inning.

Albuquerque mounted a two-out rally in the bottom of the 9th inning when Green was hit by a pitch, Chin-Lung Hu doubled and Closser followed with a three-run homer. Prentice Redman killed the rally with a fly out to end the game.

Blevins went 5 innings in a spot start in place of Scott Elbert, who left the team to take care of a undisclosed family matter. In the five innings, Blevins gave up four hits, just a run on the Craig solo homer, and struck out 2 Redbirds.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x1, .274 AVG
Xavier Paul: 0x4, 1 K, .366 AVG
Lucas May: 2x4, 1 R, 1 2B (7), 1 RBI (17), .302 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The Dodgers activated reliever George Sherrill on Tuesday and optioned P Jon Link back to Albuquerque. . . . The Isotopes and Redbirds split the four-game series, the sixth series split for Albuquerque in 2010. 36,275 attended the series for a per-game average of 9,069. . . . Russ Mitchell went hitless in three at-bats to snap a 15-game hitting streak. . . . Home Plate umpire John Brammer had a busy day sending game particpants to an early shower. Isotopes manager Tim Wallach was ejected in the 6th inning for arguing balls and strikes after Michael Restovich struck out. It was Wallach's second ejection of the season. In the 9th inning, Memphis pitcher Rich Hill was tossed for throwing behind Prentice Redman who was the batter following JD Closser's homer. . . . After the Isotopes and the rest of the PCL enjoy an off-day on Wednesday, the Isotopes travel to Oklahoma City for a four-game series against the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers). The Redhawks currently hold a game and a half lead over Albuquerque in the PCL American Conference Southern Division. Probables in Thursday evening's opener are RHP Tim Corcoran (4-5, 4.07) for the Isotopes and RHP Guillermo Moscoso (2-2, 2.93) for the Redhawks.

Filed 06/09/2010

June 7, 2010 - Isotopes (30-26)





Isotopes Park

Memphis         253 033 310 --  20  23  2
Albuquerque     000 012 004 --   7  13  0

WP: Oneli Perez (2-1)
LP: Brent Leach (3-2)

HR: MEM Joe Mather (1) off Thompson (5th inning)
    MEM Bryan Anderson (7) off Jesus Rodriguez (8th inning)
    MEM Tyler Greene (5) off Thompson (6th inning)

    ALB Michael Restovich (6) off Perez (6th inning)

TIME: 3:08
ATT: 8,601
On 50 cent hot dog night, if the hot dogs did not give Isotopes fans indigestion, the Isotopes play on the field certainly did. Albuquerque pitching allowed the most runs and hits to an opponent this season as the Memphis Redbirds (AAA Cardinals) banged out 23 hits and plated 20 runs to defeat the Isotopes 20-7. Albuquerque's four-game winning streak was snapped with the loss.

Daniel Descalso doubled home two runs with two outs in the 1st inning as Memphis did not waste any time getting on the scoreboard.

In the 2nd inning, Redbirds starter Oneli Perez and Tyler Greene singled home runs, Jon Jay and Descalso doubled home runs, and Allen Craig sacrifice flied out to drive in a run as the Redbirds plated five runs to lead 7-0. With two outs, Isotopes starter Brent Leach plunked Bryan Anderson with a pitch and was immediately ejected from the game.

The Redbirds plated three more runs in the 3rd inning on Jay's double and Craig and Descalso's singles to lead 10-0.

Memphis continued to pour it on the 5th inning with another three run inning. Craig tripled home a run and scored on Joe Mather's homer.

Albuquerque finally broke through on the scoreboard in their half of the 5th inning. Jamie Hoffmann doubled with two outs, advanced to third base on a balk and scored on Ivan DeJesus Jr.'s single.

Greene three-run homered in the 6th inning to extend Memphis' lead to 16-1.

Albuquerque responded with two runs in the home half of the 6th inning. Michael Restovich solo homered to lead off the half-inning. Russ Mitchell doubled, advanced to third on Lucas May's single, and scored on Nick Green's groundout.

Jay and Craig's RBI singles were part of a three-run 7th inning and Anderson solo homered in the 8th inning as Memphis led 20-3.

Albuquerque's biggest inning of the game was the bottom of the 9th inning. Pinch-hitter Prentice Redman reached on an error before being erased from the basepaths when Hoffmann flied out and Redman was caught in a baserunning blunder and doubled off 1st. DeJesus Jr. doubled and scored on JD Closser's single. Restovich singled to put runners on the corners and Russ Mitchell two-run doubled to drive in Closser and Restovich. May singled home Mitchell before Green grounded out to end the game.

Leach was roughed up for 8 hits and 7 runs in 1 2/3 innings of work before the ejection ended his night.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 3x3, 1 R, 1 2B (15), 1 RBI (20), 1 BB, .275 AVG
Lucas May: 2x5, 1 RBI (16), .296 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The Dodgers placed P Charlie Haeger back on the disabled list and recalled P Jon Link from Albuquerque. Link's stay with the Dodgers is expected to be very short as the Dodgers are getting ready to activate reliever George Sherrill on Tuesday. P Bobby Blevins was transferred from Class-A Inland Empire to Albuquerque and will start on Tuesday. . . . The Isotopes last allowed 20 runs in game on September 2, 2007 in the completion of a suspended game against the Oklahoma Redhawks (AAA Rangers) at Isotopes Park. . . . 31,267 50-cent hot dogs were consumed by 8,601 fans for an average of 3.6 hot dogs per fan. . . . Albuquerque set a season-best in most combined hits in a game (36) and season-worst losing margin (13 runs). . . . Russ Mitchell doubled twice to extend his hitting streak to 15 games. . . . Michael Restovich has homered in his last three games and four of the last five games he has played in. . . . The Isotopes have homered in a season-best seven straight games. . . . Isotopes reliever Eric Thompson set an Isotopes franchise record with 9 runs allowed by a reliever in a game. . . . Carlos Corporan of the Reno Aces (AAA Diamondbacks) is the PCL Hitter of the Week. Corporan hit .565 (13x23) with 2 homers and 5 RBI during the award week. . . . Mitch Atkins of the Iowa Cubs (AAA Cubs) is the PCL Pitcher of the Week. Atkins started two games and went 1-0 with a 0.75 ERA (1 ER in 12 IP). Atkins allowed 6 hits and fanned 14. . . . The series and quick homestand concludes on Tuesday afternoon. Probables are RHP Bobby Blevins (No Record) for Albuquerque and LHP Ryan Kulik (0-1, 10.13) for the Redbirds.

Filed 06/07/2010

June 6, 2010 - Isotopes (30-25)





Isotopes Park

Memphis         030 000 000 --  3  8  0
Albuquerque     102 000 02x --  5  7  0


WP: Travis Schlichting (3-0)
LP: Lance Lynn (4-4)
SV: Scott Dohmann (5)

HR: MEM Bryan Anderson (6) off Etherton (2nd inning)

    ALB Xavier Paul (6) off Lynn (1st inning)
    ALB Xavier Paul (7) off Lynn (3rd inning)
    ALB Jamie Hoffmann (4) off Lynn (8th inning)

TIME: 2:27
ATT: 7,882
On another hot afternoon at The Lab, Xavier Paul homered twice and Jamie Hoffmann's 8th inning homer provided the game-winning runs as the Isotopes defeated the Memphis Redbirds (AAA Cardinals) 5-3 for Albuquerque's fourth straight victory.

In the 1st inning, Paul solo homered as Albuquerque quickly led 1-0.

Memphis took the lead in the 2nd inning. Bryan Anderson solo homered to start the inning. An out later, Kevin Howard drew a walk and James Rapoport singled. Redbirds starter Lance Lynn laid down a sacrifice bunt and Jon Jay singled home Howard and Rapoport as Memphis led 3-0.

Isotopes starter Seth Etherton singled and scored on Paul's homer in the 3rd inning as Albuquerque tied up the game at 3-3.

The game remained knotted until the 8th inning when Jay Gibbons singled with one out and scored on Hoffmann's homer.

Isotopes closer Scott Dohmann set down the Redbirds in order in the 9th inning to protect the lead and earn his team-leading 5th save of the season.

Etherton entered the game in the 2nd inning to give George Sherrill an inning of work in his rehabilitation assignment. Etherton worked 6 innings, allowing 6 hits, 3 runs, 4 walks and he struck out 6.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x4, .264 AVG
Xavier Paul: 2x4, 2 R, 2 HR (7), 3 RBI (16), .381 AVG

DODGERS Rehab Report

George Sherrill: 1 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 2 K, 0 HR, 0.00 ERA

Sherrill's one inning outing to start the game may be his last rehabilitation assignment outing before he returns to the Los Angeles Dodgers roster. Sherrill struck out Jon Jay and Tyler Greene to start the game before allowing a double to Daniel Descalso. Allen Craig grounded out to shortstop to end the inning and strand Descalso at second base.

'TOPES NOTES:
IF Russ Mitchell was activated from the Disabled List on Sunday and IF Justin Sellers was transferred to Class-R Ogden to make roster room for Mitchell. . . . Despite Albuquerque's four game winning streak, the Isotopes have not been able to move ahead of the division leader Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers). Oklahoma City has won their last two games since Albuquerque pulled to a half-game behind. If Albuquerque can't claim the division lead on Monday or Tuesday, the Isotopes will have their chance to do it without any help from other PCL clubs when they travel to Oklahoma City for a four game series starting on Thursday. . . . Seth Etherton's Isotope starter season-best 14 1/3 scoreless innings streak abruptly came to an end. The first batter Etherton faced, Bryan Anderson, homered to right center field. . . . Russ Mitchell doubled in his return from the Disabled List to extend his hitting streak to 14 games. . . . The series continues Monday evening on 50 cent Hot Dog night. Probables are LHP Brent Leach (3-1, 5.08) for the Isotopes and RHP Onali Perez (1-1, 4.17) for the Redbirds.

Filed 06/06/2010

June 5, 2010 - Isotopes (29-25)





Isotopes Park

Memphis         020 000 100 --  3  12  0
Albuquerque     003 500 10x --  9  13  0


WP: Cody White (2-0)
LP: Evan MacLane (4-5)

HR: ALB Ivan DeJesus Jr. (2) off MacLane (3rd inning)
    ALB Michael Restovich (5) off Scherer (7th inning)

TIME: 2:37
ATT: 11,816
In front of a Isotopes Park season-best crowd of 11,816 with a 98 degree temperature at the start of the game, the Isotopes spotted the Memphis Redbirds (AAA Cardinals) two runs before erupting for eight unanswered runs on the way to a 9-3 victory over the Redbirds on Satuday evening. The Isotopes are winners of three straight games.

In the 2nd inning, Joe Mather drew a leadoff walk, Amaury Cazana doubled to the right field wall, Matt Pagnozzi grounded out to bring home Mather and Redbirds starter Evan MacLane flare singled to center to drive in Cazana as Memphis led 2-0.

Albuquerque's outburst started in the 3rd inning. Chin-Lung Hu singled and advanced to second base on Isotope starter Cody White's sacrifice bunt. Prentice Redman doubled to left field to drive in Hu and Ivan DeJesus Jr. followed with a two-run homer to left-center field as Albuquerque led 3-2.

The Isotopes put the game away in the 4th inning. Lucas May singled, Nick Green doubled, and both came home on Hu's single to left field. Hu advanced to second base on the throw on the play and took third base on White's second sacrifice bunt in two innings. Prentice Redman walked to put runners on the corners and DeJesus Jr. singled home Hu. Xavier Paul singled home Redman with DeJesus Jr. out at third base on an outfield assist before Jamie Hoffmann singled home Paul to cap a five run inning to give Albuquerque a 8-2 lead.

The clubs traded single runs in the 7th inning to close out the scoring - Cazana singled home Allen Craig in the top half, Michael Restovich solo homered in the bottom half.

White made his first Triple-A start and lasted 5 1/3 innings in the heat, allowing eight hits, two runs, walked two and struck out 4.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 3x4, 1 R, 1 HR (2), 3 RBI (19), .269 AVG
Xavier Paul: 1x4, 1 R, 1 RBI (13), .376 AVG
Lucas May: 1x4, 1 R, 1 K, .292 AVG

DODGERS Rehab Report

George Sherrill: 2/3 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 1 K, 0 HR, 0.00 ERA

Sherrill entered the game in the 6th inning with one out and allowed a single to Redbirds pinch-hitter Mark Shorey before getting James Rapaport to ground into a fielder's choice (Shorey out at second) and striking out Tyler Greene to end his night.

'TOPES NOTES:
Another day, more Isotope transactions. Nick Green, who the Dodgers designated for assignment in late May, cleared waivers and accepted an assignment to Albuquerque. Green started at third base on Saturday evening. The Dodgers assigned P George Sherrill to Albuquerque on a rehabilitation assignment. P Jordan Pratt and IF Ramon Nivar were both transferred to Class-AA Chattanooga. . . . A story on the Dodgers page at MLB.com says that P Josh Lindblom is in the Dodgers Extended Spring camp being converted back into a reliever after the Dodgers gave up on making him into a starter. Lindblom made 10 starts for the Isotopes in 2010 and went 2-1 with a 7.06 ERA. . . . Michael Restovich has homered in back to back contests and three out of the last five games. . . . Justin Sellers struck out in a pinch-hit at-bat to snap his 11 game hitting streak. Sellers had hit safely in every game he had appeared in as an Isotope until tonight. . . . The series continues on Sunday afternoon with temperatures just over 100 expected. Probables are RHP Seth Etherton (1-0, 3.00) for the Isotopes and RHP Lance Lynn (4-3, 4.02) for the Redbirds. Etherton is in the middle of a 14 1/3 scoreless innings streak, tops for Isotope starters in 2010.

Filed 06/05/2010

June 4, 2010 - Isotopes (28-25)





Herschel Greer Stadium

Albuquerque     205 001 110 --  10  16  2
Nashville       001 000 000 --   1   8  2

WP: Tim Corcoran (4-5)
LP: Chuck Lofgren (6-4)

HR: ALB Michael Restovich (4) off Lofgren (3rd inning)

TIME: 3:16
ATT: 5,307
Isotopes starter Tim Corcoran pitched 8 great innings, allowing one run and striking out 12 batters, and Michael Restovich homered and added 3 RBI as the Isotopes defeated the Nashville Sounds (AAA Brewers) 10-1 on Friday evening in the series finale. Albuquerque has won two straight games and sits just a half-game back of division leader Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) in the PCL American Conference Southern Division.

In the 1st inning, Prentice Redman singled and took second base on an error on the play. Xavier Paul walked and John Lindsey doubled them home as Albuquerque quickly led 2-0. Lindsey left the game shortly after with an injured leg and his status for any upcoming games is unknown.

Albuquerque made the game a rout with a five-run 3rd inning. Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled and scored on Jamie Hoffmann's double. Restovich followed with a two run homer. Ramon Nivar, Chin-Lung Hu and Corcoran singled to load the bases and Redman doubled home Nivar and Hu as Albuquerque led 7-0.

Corcoran's only run allowed came in the 3rd inning when Ray Olmedo singled wtih two outs and scored on Mat Gamel's double.

Restovich singled home Redman in the 6th inning, DeJesus Jr. singled home JD Closser in the 7th inning, and Closser singled home Hoffmann in the 8th inning for the final run of the game.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 3x6, 1 R, 1 2B (14), 1 RBI (16), .259 AVG
Xavier Paul: 0x4, 1 R, 2 BB, 2 K, .382 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
With the victory, the Isotopes earned a series split with the Sounds. 12,959 attended the four game series at Herschel Greer Stadium for a per-game average of 5,307. . . . Tim Corcoran set Isotope starting pitcher season bests with longest outing (8 innings) and most strikeouts in an outing (12). Corcoran's victory snapped a three-game losing decision streak. . . . Isotopes reliever Eric Thompson added a strikeout in his one inning of relief to combine with Corcoran to establish a team season best 13 strikeouts in a game. . . . Xavier Paul went hitless in four at-bats to snap a 6-game hitting streak. Paul was the only Isotope starter not to get a hit in Albuquerque's 16-hit barrage. . . . Ivan DeJesus Jr. had both of Albuquerque's errors in the game. It was DeJesus Jr.'s fourth two-error game of the season. . . . Isotope batters drew a season-high 8 walks in the game. Jamie Hoffmann led the way with a three-walk night. . . . Albuquerque returns home for a quick four game weekend series against the Memphis Redbirds (AAA Cardinals) in which a successful series means the 'Topes could leave on their next roadtrip to current-division leader Oklahoma City as the new division leader. Probables in the opener are LHP Cody White (1-0, 0.00) for the Isotopes and a pitcher to be announced for the Redbirds.

Filed 06/04/2010

June 3, 2010 - Isotopes (27-25)





Herschel Greer Stadium

Albuquerque     000 110 000 1 --  3  10  0
Nashville       000 011 000 0 --  2  10  1

WP: Juan Perez (2-1)
LP: Mitch Stetter (1-1)
SV: Scott Dohmann (4)

HR: ALB Xavier Paul (5) off Waters (5th inning)

TIME: 3:18
ATT: 4,077
It took overtime for the Isotopes to snap their longest losing streak of the season. In the 10th inning, Chin-Lung Hu drew a bases loaded walk to bring in the eventual game-winning run as the Isotopes defeated the Nashville Sounds (AAA Brewers) 3-2.

Justin Sellers delivered to snap the scoreless tie in the 4th inning. With two outs, Hu drew a walk and scored on Sellers' double.

Xavier Paul returned to the Isotopes from the Dodgers and solo-homered in the 5th inning to give Albuquerque a 2-0 lead.

Sounds starter Chris Waters led off the home half of the 5th inning with a walk and later scored on Joe Koshansky's single and in the 6th inning, Erick Almonte singled home John Raburn as the Sounds tied the game at 2-2.

The game remained deadlocked until the 10th inning. Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled to lead off the frame and after Jay Gibbons flew out, pinch-hitter Michael Restovich singled and Jamie Hoffmann walked to load the bases. Lucas May grounded into a fielder's choice with DeJesus Jr. out at home plate. Hu then took four pitches for balls to draw the walk that plated Restovich with the game-winning run.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x4, 1 BB, 1 K, .251 AVG
Xavier Paul: 3x5, 1 R, HR (5), RBI (12), K, SB (4), .400 AVG
Lucas May: 1x5, 1 K, .294 AVG
Scott Elbert: ND, 5 IP, 4 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 5 BB, 5 K, 0 HR, WP, 4.98 ERA


'TOPES NOTES:
A link was added to the top of this summary and will be present for every summary through Friday June 25th because the 2010 Triple-A All-Star Game balloting has begun. The link will take you to the Minor League Baseball website where you can cast your ballot and try to get several Isotopes into the 2010 Triple-A All-Star Game. Weighting of the votes is equal at 33% between the fans, media, and PCL Field Managers/General Managers. Each fan may vote up to 25 times. . . . OF Timo Perez, in a paper move, was transferred to Class-R Ogden to make roster room for Xavier Paul. The Dodgers also sent P Travis Schlichting back to Albuquerque when they activated P Charlie Haeger off the major-league Disabled List. . . . Albuquerque really enjoys working overtime. The Isotopes are 6-1 in extra inning contests in 2010. . . . Justin Sellers continued to hit safely in every game he has played in as an Isotope (11 games). . . . The series (and roadtrip) concludes Friday evening. Probables are RHP Tim Corcoran (3-5, 4.56) for the Isotopes and LHP Chuck Lofgren (6-3, 4.68) for the Sounds.

Filed 06/03/2010

June 2, 2010 - Isotopes (26-25)


Herschel Greer Stadium

Albuquerque     000 020 000 --  2   4  0
Nashville       200 000 22x --  6  12  0

WP: Tim Dillard (1-2)
LP: Jesus Rodriguez (0-1)

HR: ALB Jay Gibbons (9) off Johnson (5th inning)

    NSH Adam Heether (8) off J. Rodriguez (7th inning)
    NSH Adam Heether (9) off Pratt (8th inning)

TIME: 3:02
ATT: 1,574
After a 43 minute weather delay to start the game, Adam Heether homered twice for the Nashville Sounds (AAA Brewers) and one swing of Jay Gibbons' bat was all the runs the Isotopes could muster as the Sounds defeated the Isotopes 6-2 to hand Albuquerque their fourth straight defeat.

Luis Cruz singled home Norris Hopper and Heether as the Sounds led 2-0 after one inning of play.

In the 5th inning, Jamie Hoffmann reached on a fielder's choice and scored on Gibbon's homer as the Isotopes tied the game at 2-2.

Nashville regained the lead in the 7th inning off Isotopes reliever Jesus Rodriguez. Heether solo homered with one out, the next batter Erick Almonte drew a walk and later came around to score on Trent Oeltjen's single.

In the 8th inning with new Isotopes roster member Jordan Pratt pitching, Ray Olmedo drew a two-out walk and scored on Heether's second homer of the game.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x4, 1 K, .251 AVG
Lucas May: 1x3, 1 BB, 1 K, .298 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
There were some Isotopes roster moves on Wednesday. P John Koronka was released and P Josh Lindblom was transferred in a paper move to Class-R Ogden to make way for P Jordan Pratt and P Eric Thompson. Pratt was transferred from Class-A Inland Empire and Thompson from Class-R Ogden. . . . The four game losing streak is Albuquerque's longest of the season and the Isotopes are now just one game above the .500 mark. . . . With only four hits on the night, there were not a lot of Isotope hitting streaks extended. Justin Sellers kept his hitting streak alive and continued to hit safely in every game he has appeared in as an Isotope - 10 games. . . . Jay Gibbons' homer was Albuquerque's 50th homer of the season. Although Gibbons homer was not solo, half of Albuquerque's homers are of the solo variety. . . . The series continues Thursday evening. Probables are LHP Scott Elbert (1-1, 5.40) for the Isotopes and LHP Chris Waters (4-2, 3.48) for the Sounds.

Filed 06/02/2010

June 1, 2010 - Isotopes (26-24)


Herschel Greer Stadium

Albuquerque     010 020 010 --  4   8  0
Nashville       000 000 014 --  5  10  0

WP: Chris Smith (2-1)
LP: Scott Dohmann (0-1)

HR: ALB Michael Restovich (3) off Riske (8th inning)

TIME: 2:50
ATT: 2,001
Isotopes starter Seth Etherton tossed seven scoreless innings and looked to be locked in for the victory, but Isotopes closer Scott Dohmann blew the save and allowed four bottom-of-the-9th-inning runs to the Nashville Sounds (AAA Brewers) as the Sounds stunned the Isotopes 5-4 in the series opener in Nashville on Tuesday evening. Albuquerque has lost three straight games with the defeat.

In the 2nd inning, Lucas May drew a leadoff walk and stole second base. Jamie Hoffmann singled May to third base and Ramon Nivar grounded into a double play with May scampering home with the first Isotopes run of the game.

In the 5th inning, Hoffmann and Nivar singled and both advanced into scoring position on Chin-Lung Hu's groundout. Etherton singled to drive in Hoffmann and Nivar as the Isotopes extended their lead to 3-0.

Michael Restovich pinch-hit solo homered in the 8th inning as Albuquerque led 4-0 with only six outs needed for the victory.

Juan Perez relieved Etherton in the 8th inning and gave up back to back walks before Joe Koshansky singled home Ray Olmedo to get Nashville on the scoreboard.

In the bottom of the 9th inning with a three-run lead, Dohmann gave up singles to Luis Cruz and Patrick Arlis before getting pinch-hitter Erick Almonte to strike out. Josh Anderson grounded out before Olmedo singled home Cruz and Arliss to bring the Sounds to a run down at 4-3. Adam Heether walked and Koshansky was hit by a pitch to load the bases and Olmedo scored on a wild pitch to tie the game. Trent Oeltjen was intentionally walked to set up force out opportunities at any base and Norris Hopper infield singled with a slow roller to second base with Heether scoring the game winning run.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x3, 1 2B (13), 1 BB, 1 K, .257 AVG
Lucas May: 0x3, 1 R, 1 BB, 1 K, .297 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
While the Isotopes lost tonight, it was a great day for John Lindsey and Seth Etherton. For the third time in franchise history, an Isotopes duo swept the PCL Weekly Awards. Lindsey won his second Hitter of the Week award of the season for hitting 407 (11x27) with 5 homers and 13 RBI. Etherton, the Pitcher of the Week, made one start and tossed 7 scoreless innings while allowing 3 hits and fanning 11. . . . The three game losing streak ties for the longest losing streak of the season. . . . Albuquerque is 10-11 in one-run contests in 2010. . . . Eight of the Isotope losses this season have come when their opponents scored the game winning runs in their last at-bats. . . . Seth Etherton is in the midst of a 14 1/3 scoreless inning streak, so far the longest of the season for an Isotope starter (Tim Corcoran, 9 1/3 innings in May). . . . Michael Restovich's homer was the Isotope franchise's 13th pinch-hit homer and first pinch-hit homer in 2010. . . . Albuquerque hopes to snap their losing streak on Wednesday night. LHP Brent Leach (3-1, 4.99) is expected to take the mound for Albuquerque, while Nashville is expected to counter with RHP Mark Rogers (No Record), the 2004 Brewers First Round draft pick who will be making his Triple-A debut.

Filed 06/01/2010

May 31, 2010 - Isotopes (26-23)


Autozone Park

Albuquerque     000 000 000 --   0   9  2
Memphis         350 002 01x --  11  13  0

WP: Evan MacLane (4-4)
LP: John Koronka (0-1)

HR: MEM Daniel Descalso (2) off Koronka (2nd inning)
    MEM Daniel Descalso (3) off Nivar (8th inning)
    MEM Amaury Cazana (5) off Koronka (1st inning)

TIME: 2:49
ATT: 6,007
If you are a pitcher, the goal is that the lower the ERA, the better job you are doing of keeping runs off the scoreboard. John Koronka made his first Isotope start after a promotion from Class-AA Chattanooga and allowed 8 runs, did not make it out of the 2nd inning and saw his ERA establish at 54.00 as the Isotopes were blanked by the Memphis Redbirds (AAA Cardinals) 11-0 on Memorial Day afternoon in Memphis.

The first inning started out well for Koronka as he got the first two batters out before Daniel Descalso doubled, scored on Joe Mather's double, and Amaury Cazana followed with a two run homer as Memphis led 3-0.

In the 2nd inning with one out, Matt Pagnozzi walked, Redbirds starter Evan MacLane was hit by a pitch, and James Rapoport singled to load the bases. Tyler Greene two-run doubled and Descalso followed with a three run homer. Mather singled before Koronka was removed from the game with the Redbirds leading 8-0.

Donovan Solano two-run singled in the 6th inning and Descalso solo homered in the 8th inning.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x1, 1 K, .256 AVG
Lucas May: 1x4, .304 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The Dodgers activated OF Andre Ethier as expected on Monday and optioned OF Xavier Paul back to the Isotopes. Paul has made two roundtrips so far in 2010 on the Albuquerque-Los Angeles shuttle. The Isotopes in a paper move sent third-string catcher Esteban Lopez to Class-Rookie Ogden to free up roster room for P John Koronka. . . . The Isotopes and Redbirds played their final game of the 2010 regular season at Autozone Park. The teams split the series and 31,267 attended the four-game series for a per-game average of 7,817. Memphis won five out of the eight games at Autozone Park. The Redbirds and Isotopes have eight games to play at Isotopes Park with the first series beginning next weekend. . . . The Isotopes are 3-5 with a three-game losing streak in Memorial Day contests. . . . Albuquerque has been shut out three times so far in 2010. . . . Ivan DeJesus Jr. entered the game in the later innings and went hitless in one at-bat to snap a 9-game hitting streak. Justin Sellers hit safely to continue hitting in every game he has played in as an Isotope (9 games). . . . With May closed out in the stat books, some of the Isotope May statistics: 14-15 record, 8-6 at home and 6-9 on the road, .322 team batting average, 5.46 team ERA, 178 runs scored, 12 stolen bases, and 27 homers hit. . . . John Koronka's 1 1/3 innings pitched was the shortest Isotope starter outing of 2010 that wasn't injury related. Cody White's 4 1/3 innings was the longest reliever outing of the season. . . . Ramon Nivar became the second position player (Timo Perez) to pitch in a game for Albuquerque this season. Nivar worked the 8th inning and gave up a solo homer to Daniel Descalso and struck out one. . . . The Isotopes conclude their Tennessee roadtrip with a four game series in Nashville against the Nashville Sounds (AAA Brewers). Probables in the opener are RHP Seth Etherton (1-0, 4.24) for the Isotopes and RHP Kameron Loe (4-3, 3.16) for the Sounds.

Filed 05/31/2010

May 30, 2010 - Isotopes (26-22)


Autozone Park

Albuquerque     011 000 010 --  3   9  2
Memphis         100 031 00x --  5  10  0

WP: Brandon Dickson (5-3)
LP: Tim Corcoran (3-5)
SV: Fernando Salas (8)

HR: ALB John Lindsey (10) off Kinney (8th inning)

TIME: 2:39
ATT: 10,479
John Lindsey homered and knocked in two runs but the effort was not enough as the Isotopes lost to the Memphis Redbirds (AAA Cardinals) 5-3 on Sunday evening to snap a four game winning streak.

Tyler Greene tripled and scored on Daniel Descalso's single in the 1st inning as the Redbirds quickly led 1-0.

The Isotopes grabbed the lead over the next two innings. In the 2nd inning, Jamie Hoffmann singled, stole second base and scored on Justin Sellers' single. Ivan DeJesus Jr. walked and scored on Lindsey's 3rd inning double as Albuquerque led 2-1.

Memphis retook the lead for good in the 5th inning. Amaury Cazana singled, Kevin Howard walked, and Redbirds starter Brandon Dickson singled home Cazana. An error on Isotopes starter Tim Corcoran allowed Howard to score and Greene's groundout brought home Dickson.

In the 6th inning, Joe Mather drew a leadoff walk and later scored on Cazana's single as the Redbirds led 5-2.

Lindsey's solo homer in the 8th inning closed out the scoring.

Corcoran allowed 5 runs (3 earned) and 9 hits in 6 innings.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x2, 1 R, 1 BB, 1 K, .257 AVG


'TOPES NOTES:
The Isotopes roster saw more changes on Sunday. The Dodgers sent back Scott Elbert after a poor outing on Saturday for the Dodgers against the Rockies. Elbert lasted 2/3 of a inning in relief, walked 3 of the 6 batters he faced and allowed a run and a hit. The Dodgers recalled P Travis Schlichting from Albuquerque and ended OF Andre Ethier's rehabilitation assignment. Ethier is expected to be activated Monday and it is likely OF Xavier Paul is going to be sent back to Albuquerque to make roster room for Ethier. Finally, P John Koronka, a Triple-A veteran in recent seasons, was transferred to Albuquerque from Class-AA Chattanooga and will start on Monday. . . . John Lindsey has homered in two straight games, in five out of his last seven contests, and is tied for second place in the PCL in homers with his 10 big flys. . . . Jay Gibbons went hitless in four at-bats to snap a 13-game hitting streak. Justin Sellers hit safely in the game to continue hitting safely in every game he has appeared in as an Isotope (8 games). . . . Tim Corcoran has lost his last three pitching decisions and has five losses, the most for an active Isotope and he is tied for the 2010 team lead with the recently-released Josh Towers. . . . Albuquerque and Memphis play the final Autozone Park game between the two of the 2010 regular season on Monday afternoon. Probables are LHP John Koronka (No Record) for Albuquerque and a pitcher to be announced for Memphis.

Filed 05/30/2010

May 29, 2010 - Isotopes (26-21)


Autozone Park

Albuquerque     131 540 020 --  16  19  1
Memphis         001 230 000 --   6   7  3

WP: Travis Schlichting (2-0)
LP: Ryan Kulik (0-1)

HR: ALB John Lindsey (9) off Scherer (4th inning)

    MEM Tyler Greene (3) off Lindblom (5th inning)

TIME: 3:15
ATT: 7,807
John Lindsey belted the Isotopes' first grand-slam homer of the season and drove in six total and Andre Ethier in what could be his final Isotope rehab appearance added two RBI as Albuquerque routed the Memphis Redbirds (AAA Cardinals) 16-6 for their fourth straight victory.

In the 1st inning, Justin Sellers doubled, advanced to third base on Ivan DeJesus Jr.'s sacrifice bunt, and scored on Ethier's sacrifice flyout.

Albuquerque added to their lead in the 2nd inning. Jamie Hoffmann and Lucas May drew walks with one out, Chin-Lung Hu doubled home Hoffmann, and Isotopes starter Josh Lindblom singled home May and Hu as Albuquerque led 4-0.

Ethier reached on an error in the 3rd inning, advanced to second and third bases on consecutive wild pitches, and scored on Lindsey's groundout.

Redbirds starter Ryan Kulik waked, took second on a wild pitch and scored when Tyler Greene reached on an error as the Redbirds got on the scoreboard in their half of the 3rd inning and trailed 5-1.

The Isotopes made it quickly a rout in the 4th inning. Lindblom singled, Sellers reached on an error, DeJesus Jr. singled to load the bases and Ethier was plunked by a pitch to bring in Lindblom. Lindsey followed with a grand-slam homer, his team-leading 9th homer of the season, to build the Albuquerque lead to 10-1.

Amaury Cazana doubled home two runs in the 4th inning for Memphis before Albuquerque added four more runs in the 5th inning with two outs. DeJesus Jr., Ethier and Lindsey singled with Lindsey driving in DeJesus Jr. Prentice Redman doubled home Ethier and Hoffmann singled home Lindsey and Redman as Albuquerque led 14-3.

The Redbirds scored their final three runs in the 5th inning when Greene solo homered, Bryan Anderson singled home a run, and Cazana grounded out with a run scoring on the play.

In the 8th inning, May and Hu singled, both runners advanced a base on an error during Hu's single, and pinch-hitter Esteban Lopez brought them both home with a double for the final runs of the game.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 4x5, 2 R, .254 AVG
Lucas May: 2x4, 2 R, 1 2B (6), 1 BB, .306 AVG
Josh Lindblom: ND, 4 IP, 6 H, 6 R, 5 ER, 3 BB, 0 K, 1 HR, WP, 7.06 ERA

DODGERS Rehab Report

Andre Ethier: 2x3, 3 R, 2 RBI (2), .600 AVG

Ethier made his second and possibly final Isotope rehab appearance as the Isotope right fielder. Ethier sacrifice flied out in the 1st inning to drive in Justin Sellers and then reached on an error and advanced to second and third bases on wild pitches before scoring on John Lindsey's groundout in the 3rd inning. Ethier was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded in the 4th inning, got an RBI for the plunk, and scored on Lindsey's grand slam homer. Ethier singled in the 5th inning, advanced to second base on Lindsey's single, and scored on Prentice Redman's double. In the 7th inning, Ethier singled but was erased from the basepaths when Lindsey grounded into a double play and then Ethier was removed from the game in the bottom of the 7th inning when Michael Restovich entered the game to play right field.

'TOPES NOTES:
Chin-Lung Hu, who went on the disabled list with a broken nose about a week ago, was activated from the disabled list and played Saturday evening. Hu went 3x6 with a double, 2 runs scored, had an RBI, and improved his batting average to .301. . . . Albuquerque achieved season-bests tonight in runs scored in a game (16), longest winning streak (4 games) and games above the .500 mark (5). . . . John Lindsey has homered in four out of his last six games. Lindsey's 6 RBI tonight ties him for the most RBIs by an Isotope in a game in 2010 (Prentice Redman, April 18th vs Omaha). . . . Justin Sellers has a 7 game hitting streak, a hit in every game he has played in since joining Albuquerque from Class-A Inland Empire. . . . The Isotopes are 9-1 when they score 10 runs or more in a game. . . . Ivan DeJesus Jr. turned in his first four-hit game of the season and he currently has the longest Isotope hitting streak (among players not on the disabled list) at 8 games. . . . Game three of the series is Sunday evening. Probables are RHP Tim Corcoran (3-4, 4.57) for the Isotopes and RHP Brandon Dickson (4-3, 3.47) for the Redbirds.

Filed 05/29/2010

May 28, 2010 - Isotopes (25-21)


Autozone Park

Albuquerque    220 100 000 01 --  6   7  0
Memphis        000 130 100 00 --  5  12  3

WP: Cody White (1-0)
LP: Rich Hill (3-3)
SV: Scott Dohmann (3)

HR: ALB Ivan DeJesus Jr. (1) off Perez (2nd inning)

    MEM Amaury Cazana (4) off Link (7th inning)

TIME: 3:58
ATT: 6,974
The Isotopes had a five run lead early in the game and lost the lead but was able to plate a run in the 11th inning to take a 6-5 victory over the Memphis Redbirds (AAA Cardinals) in the series opener at Autzone Park on Friday evening. Albuquerque has won three straight games and sits a half-game back of division leader Oklahoma City.

In the 1st inning, Ivan DeJesus Jr. reached on an error to lead off the game, Andre Ethier walked and an out later, Jay Gibbons doubled home DeJesus Jr. while Ethier took third base. Lucas May singled home Ethier as the Isotopes led 2-0.

Justin Sellers singled and scored on DeJesus Jr.'s homer as the Isotopes built their lead to 4-0 and the Isotopes made it 5-0 in the 4th inning. Prentice Redman reached on a fielder's choice, stole second base and scored on Gibbons' single.

Memphis began their comeback in the 4th inning when Allen Craig drew a leadoff walk, advanced to third base on Mark Hamilton's double and scored on Amaury Cazana's single.

Craig, Kevin Howard, and Cazana singled home runs in the 5th inning and Cazana solo homered in the 7th inning as Memphis tied Albuquerque at 5-5.

In the 11th inning, Timo Perez drew a one out walk, DeJesus Jr. reached on an error and Jamie Hoffmann grounded out as Perez scampered home from third base with the eventual game winning run.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x6, 2 R, 1 HR (1), 2 RBI (15), 1 K, .238 AVG
Lucas May: 1x5, 1 RBI (15), 2 K, .299 AVG

DODGERS Rehab Report

Andre Ethier: 1x2, 1 R, 2 BB, .500 AVG

Ethier became the first Dodger to rehab with the Isotopes in 2010 and started the game as the right fielder. Ethier drew a walk in a first inning at-bat, advanced to third base on Jay Gibbons' double and scored on Lucas May's single. Ethier singled in the 2nd inning inning but was stranded on base when Prentice Redman struck out to end the inning. Ethier drew another walk in the 4th inning but was erased from the basepaths on Redman's fielder's choice. In Ethier's last at-bat, he grounded out to end the 6th inning. In the field, Ethier fielded Allen Craig and Amaury Cazana's singles.

'TOPES NOTES:
Scott Elbert was a scratch from today's start because the Dodgers recalled him and designated IF Nick Green for assignment. P Cody White joined the Isotopes from Class-A Inland Empire and earned the victory in tonight's game with two innings of scoreless relief. . . . 19 of the 25 (24 active + 1 rehab) active Isotope players appeared in the game, tying a franchise record for most Isotopes in a game. . . . By allowing a run in the 4th inning, Isotopes pitching closed the book at 24 1/3 innings their consecutive scoreless innings streak, the second longest streak in franchise history. . . . John Lindsey's 17-game hitting streak came to an end. Lindsey entered the game as a defensive replacement in the 9th inning and only had one at-bat in the 10th inning where he grounded out to end the streak. Jay Gibbons had a three-hit night to extend his hitting streak to 13 games. . . . Albuquerque has seven victories when they scored the game-winning runs in their last at-bats. . . . The Isotopes are 5-1 in extra inning contests. . . . The series continues Saturday evening. Probables are RHP Josh Lindblom (2-1, 6.70) for the Isotopes and LHP Ryan Kulik (No Record) for the Redbirds. The game might mark Andre Ethier's final rehab appearance for Albuquerque.

Filed 05/28/2010

May 27, 2010 - Isotopes (24-21)


Isotopes Park

Reno            000 000 000 --  0   4  0
Albuquerque     500 030 00x --  8  11  1

WP: Seth Etherton (1-0)
LP: Bryan Augenstein (2-6)

HR: ALB John Lindsey (8) off Augenstein (5th inning)

TIME: 2:23
ATT: 5,852
Seth Etherton had a great outing for Albuquerque, allowing no runs and 3 hits in 7 innings while fanning an Isotope-season high 11 batters and Jesus Rodriguez arrived from Class-AA Chattanooga to toss the final two scoreless frames as the Isotopes shut out the Aces for the second night in a row.

In the 1st inning, Timo Perez doubled, Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled, and Jay Gibbons singled home Perez. John Lindsey was hit by a pitch to load the bases and Jamie Hoffmann grounded into a double play with DeJesus Jr. scoring. JD Closser drew a walk and Ramon Nivar doubled to Isotopes Hill as Gibbons and Closser scored. Justin Sellers singled home Nivar as the Isotopes led 5-0 after one inning of play.

In the 5th inning, DeJesus Jr. singled with one out and came home on Gibbons' double. Lindsey followed with a two-run homer as the Isotopes made it the final score of 8-0.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x4, 2 R, .241 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
It was an eventful day for Isotope roster movements. The Dodgers announced that OF Andre Ethier will be joining the Isotopes on a MLB rehabilitation assignment. Ethier will meet the club in Memphis and play during the series against the Redbirds. The Dodgers designated P Ramon Ortiz for assignment and purchased the contract of P Justin Miller from the Isotopes. If the stars align right and the Dodgers are unable to move Ortiz and if he clears waivers, we may find out in about a week if Ortiz will join the Isotopes. P James McDonald indeed strained his right hamstring during an awkward baserunning slide into second base in the 5th inning of last night's game and he was placed on the Disabled List. P Jesus Rodriguez was promoted from Class-AA Chattanooga to join the Isotope relief corps. . . . The start of the game was delayed 1 hour, 17 minutes by weather and it was the first Isotopes home weather delay of the season. . . . Tonight's meeting was the final one of the season between the Aces and Isotopes. 22,101 attended the four game series for a per-game average of 5,525. Albuquerque took three out of the four games in the first series between the clubs at Isotopes Park, and all-time, Albuquerque holds a 6-2 record against the Aces. . . . Albuquerque is done facing Pacific Conference opponents until August when the Isotopes have one series against each of the remaining Pacific Conference foes. . . . John Lindsey's homer extended his hitting streak to 17 games. Jay Gibbons had a three hit effort in extending his hitting streak to 12 games. . . . Lindsey has homered in back to back games and is tied for the team lead with 8 homers (Gibbons). . . . Isotopes pitching has a 21 1/3 scoreless inning streak, the second longest team scoreless innings streak in franchise history. . . . Albuquerque tossed back-to-back shutouts for the first time since June 25-26, 2009 against the Nashville Sounds. . . . The Isotopes head to Memphis to begin an eight-game Tennessee road swing on Friday evening. The Isotopes have yet to name a probable, while the Memphis Redbirds (AAA Cardinals) are expected to send RHP Oneli Perez (0-1, 3.71) to the mound.

Filed 05/27/2010

May 26, 2010 - Isotopes (23-21)


Isotopes Park

Reno            000 000 000 --  0  5  0
Albuquerque     200 000 00x --  2  5  0

WP: James McDonald (4-1)
LP: Wes Roemer (1-1)
SV: Scott Dohmann (2)

HR: ALB John Lindsey (7) off Roemer (1st inning)

TIME: 2:18
ATT: 4,824
A day after the Reno Aces (AAA Diamondbacks) blanked the Isotopes, Albuquerque returned the favor on Wednesday night as James McDonald and three relievers kept the Aces off the scoreboard and John Lindsey provided the runs in the 2-0 victory.

In the 1st inning, Prentice Redman walked with two outs and Lindsey followed with a homer to center field.

McDonald tossed 5 innings, allowing 2 hits, no runs, no walks and fanned 6 Aces batters. Travis Schlichting, Brent Leach and Scott Dohmann followed.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x4, .234 AVG
Lucas May: 0x2, 1 BB, 1 K, .304 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
Jamie Hoffmann's franchise record tying 19-game hitting streak came to an end with an 0x4 effort. John Lindsey took over the team lead for the longest current hitting streak. Lindsey's first inning homer extended his hitting streak to 16 games. . . . James McDonald left the game in the bottom of the 5th inning. McDonald had drawn a one out walk and slid awkwardly at second base and appeared to strain his right hamstring during Jamie Hoffmann's fielder's choice grounder. McDonald pitched long enough in the game to earn his team-best 4th victory of the season and McDonald has a three game winning decision streak. . . . The two combined runs in the game ties the season record for fewest combined runs in a game first established when the Omaha Royals shut out the Isotopes 2-0 at The Lab in April. . . . Albuquerque's shutout tonight was their first tossed shutout of the season. . . . The series (and homestand) concludes on Thursday evening. Probables are RHP Seth Etherton (0-0, 7.20) for the Isotopes and RHP Bryan Augenstein (2-5, 5.33) for the Aces.

Filed 05/26/2010

May 25, 2010 - Isotopes (22-21)


Isotopes Park

Reno            002 001 000 --  3  11  0
Albuquerque     000 000 000 --  0  11  0

WP: Matt Torra (3-2)
LP: Tim Corcoran (3-4)
SV: Blaine Boyer (1)

HR: RENO Sean Coughlin (3) off Corcoran (6th inning)

TIME: 2:49
ATT: 7,317
Tim Corcoran pitched well with a quality start and his teammates came up with 11 hits yet were unable to push a run across as the Reno Aces (AAA Diamondbacks) handed the Isotopes their second shutout of the season, 3-0.

In the 3rd inning, Aces starter Matt Torra singled, Doug Deeds walked, and Mark Hallberg laid down a sacrifice bunt to advance both runners into scoring position. Cole Gillespie singled them both home to give Reno all the runs they would need.

Sean Coughlin solo homered for Reno's final run of the game in the 6th inning.

Corcoran allowed all three Aces runs in 7 innings, while allowing 9 hits, walking 3 and fanning 8. The 8 strikeouts were a season-best while allowing 5 free passes was a season worst for Corcoran.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x4, 1 2B (12), 2 K, .233 AVG
Lucas May: 2x4, 1 K, .310 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
Jamie Hoffmann tied a franchise record tonight when he hit safely in his 19th straight game. Hoffmann is tied with Eric Reed, who set the mark in 2006. . . . IF Russ Mitchell's hitting streak will stay at 13 games for awhile. Mitchell was placed on the disabled list Tuesday with a strained left hamstring. C Esteban Lopez, who has been on Albuquerque's disabled list since opening day, was activated from the disabled list. . . . Other double-digit Isotopes hit streaks extended in the game was Jay Gibbons (11 games) and John Lindsey (15 games). . . . Both of Albuquerque's shutouts have occurred at Isotopes Park. The other shutout was April 17th when Omaha was in town. . . . The series continues on Wednesday evening. Probables are RHP James McDonald (3-1, 5.66) for the Isotopes and RHP Wes Roemer (1-0, 1.29) for the Aces.

Filed 05/25/2010

May 24, 2010 - Isotopes (22-20)


Isotopes Park

Reno            000 053 000 00 --  8  16  3
Albuquerque     412 000 010 01 --  9  17  2

WP: Jon Link (2-1)
LP: Jason Urquidez (2-1)

HR: ALB Jay Gibbons (8) off Benson (1st inning)
    ALB John Lindsey (6) off Benson (1st inning)

TIME: 4:14
ATT: 4,108
The Isotopes blew their largest lead of the season and yet at the end was able to score the game winning run on an error in the bottom of the 11th inning to take a 9-8 victory over the Reno Aces (AAA Diamondbacks) in the series opener on Monday evening.

Albuquerque was off and running in the 1st inning. Timo Perez doubled down the right field line, Jamie Hoffmann walked, and Jay Gibbons belted his team-leading 8th homer over the right field wall. John Lindsey followed with a solo homer to right field as Albuquerque led 4-0 after an inning of play.

Perez doubled off the right field wall, advanced to third on an error on the play, and scored on Gibbons' single into right field in the 2nd inning. In the 3rd inning, Russ Mitchell and Lucas May singled and Ivan DeJesus Jr. drove in Mitchell with a single. May was caught stealing 3rd base while DeJesus Jr. successfully stole second base before Isotopes starter Josh Lindblom singled home DeJesus Jr. as the Isotopes led 7-0.

Reno quickly found out that no lead by either club is safe at Isotopes Park until the final out is recorded. Lindblom was hammered for five runs in the 5th inning. With one out, Mark Hallberg and Cole Gillespie singled and both scored on Jeff Bailey's triple. Ed Rogers tripled home Bailey and Drew Macias brought Rogers home with a single. After Pedro Ciriaco popped out, Sean Coughlin drew a walk and Zach Kroenke singled home Macias.

Reno completed their comeback in the 6th inning. Hallberg and Bailey singled and Rogers singled home Hallberg. Macias singled to load the bases and Ciriaco reached on an error as Bailey and Rogers scored to give Reno a 8-7 lead.

Albuquerque tied the game in the 8th inning. Ramon Nivar singled with one out, advanced to second base on a groundout, and scored on Hoffmann's single.

The game remained knotted at 8-8 until the 11th inning. Gibbons drew a leadoff walk, Lindsey singled and pinch-hitter Michael Restovich was intentionally walked to load the bases and set up force plays at any base. Lucas May hit a grounder to Aces third baseman Ed Rogers, who threw the ball over the catcher's head trying for the force out at Home Plate and Gibbons scored the game winning run on the error.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x5, 1 R, 1 RBI (13), 1 K, .233 AVG
Lucas May: 3x6, 1 2B (5), 1 K, .302 AVG
Josh Lindblom: ND, 5.1 IP, 12 H, 8 R, 7 ER, 2 BB, 6 K, 0 HR, 2 HBP, 6.70 ERA

'TOPES NOTES:
The seven run lead was Albuquerque's worst blown lead of the season. . . . The 4 hour, 14 minute marathon was Albuquerque's longest game of the season. The 11 innings was the longest home extra inning contest of 2010, but not the longest extra inning game of the season (13 innings in Oklahoma City). . . . Jay Gibbons joined the club of Isotopes with 10 game or longer hitting streaks. Jamie Hoffmann extended his hitting streak to 18 games, a game shy of tying the franchise record of 19 games (Eric Reed). John Lindsey extended his hitting streak to 14 games, Russ Mitchell to 13 games, and Gibbons joined the hitting streak club with a hit in his 10th straight game. . . . Albuquerque has six victories when they score the game winning runs in their final at-bats. Three of those were walk-off victories at Isotopes Park. . . . Chris Johnson of the Round Rock Express (AAA Astros) is the PCL Hitter of the Week. Johnson hit .458 (11x24) with 3 homers and 9 RBI during the award week. . . . Andrew Cashner of the Iowa Cubs (AAA Cubs) is the PCL Pitcher of the Week. Cashner made two starts and won both of them. In 13 innings of work, Cashner allowed 8 hits, a run, and struck out 8 while compiling a 0.69 ERA. . . . The series continues on Tuesday evening. Probables are RHP Tim Corcoran (3-3, 4.72) for the Isotopes and RHP Matt Torra (2-2, 3.42) for the Aces.

Filed 05/24/2010

May 23, 2010 - Isotopes (21-20)


Isotopes Park

Las Vegas       000 200 213 1 --  9  12  1
Albuquerque     112 020 011 0 --  8  16  0

WP: Jeremy Accardo (1-0)
LP: Brent Leach (3-1)

HR: LVG Jarrett Hoffpauir (6) off Elbert (4th inning)
    LVG Chris Aguila (1) off Schlichting (7th inning)

    ALB Russ Mitchell (4) off Rzepczynski (2nd inning)

TIME: 3:34
ATT: 7,141
Isotopes reliever Brent Leach walked in the game-winning run in the top of the 10th inning as the Las Vegas 51s (AAA Blue Jays) defeated the Isotopes 9-8 on Sunday afternoon at The Lab. The defeat snapped a two-game winning streak.

The Isotopes plated four runs over the first three frames. John Lindsey doubled home Ramon Nivar in the 1st inning and Russ Mitchell solo homered in the 2nd inning. In the 3rd inning, Jay Gibbons, John Lindsey and Prentice Redman singled to load the bags before Mitchell grounded out to drive in Gibbons. A wild pitch then brought Lindsey home.

Las Vegas' Jarrett Hoffpauir solo homered and later in the inning, Jorge Padilla singled home a run as the 51s halved the defecit at 4-2.

The Isotopes took a four run lead in the 5th inning. Nivar walked, Gibbons reached on an error and Lindsey singled home Nivar. Gibbons advanced to third base on Lindsey's single and scored on Redman's double.

Padilla walked and scored on former-Isotope Chris Aguila's two-run homer as the 51s trailed 6-4.

The two clubs swapped a single run in the 8th inning. Brian Dopirak singled home a run in the top half, Nivar doubled home JD Closser in the bottom half.

Isotope closer Scott Dohmann entered the game in the 9th inning with a 7-5 lead and was looking for the save. Aguila walked, Jesus Merchan doubled and Chris Lubanski walked to load the bases with no outs. Hoffpauir grounded out as Aguila scored and Luis Figueroa doubled home Merchan and Lubanski as Dohmann blew the save and Las Vegas led 8-7.

51s closer Jeremy Accardo entered the game in the 9th inning and proceeded to also blow the save. Lindsey greeted Accardo with a double before being lifted for pinch-runner Lucas May. May advanced to third on Redman's groundout, and after Mitchell grounded out, Timo Perez singled home May to tie the game at 8-8. Perez stole second base before being stranded when Closser struck out to send the game to extra innings.

With two outs in the top of the 10th inning, Aguila singled, Merchan walked and J.P. Arencibia singled to load the bases and Hoffpauir drew the walk to bring Aguila home with the eventual game winning run.

Jamie Hoffmann doubled with one out in the bottom of the 10th inning but could not advance further when Nivar struck out, Gibbons was intentionally walked, and May flew out for the final out of the game.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Lucas May: 0x1, 1 R, .289 AVG
Scott Elbert: ND, 6 IP, 4 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 1 BB, 6 K, 1 HR, 5.40 ERA

'TOPES NOTES:
The Isotopes and 51s played each other for the final time in 2010 and the two clubs split the series. 35,411 attended for a per-game average of 8,853. All-time, the Isotopes hold a 24-8 series advantage, including a 12-4 advantage in games at Isotopes Park. . . . Three Isotopes extended their double-digit length hitting streaks in the game. Jamie Hoffmann came up with a 10th inning double to extend his hitting streak to 17 games as he nears franchise record territory. John Lindsey extended his streak to 13 games and Russ Mitchell extended his hitting streak to 12 games. . . . The Isotopes are 3-1 in extra inning contests in 2010. . . . History will be made at The Lab on Monday evening when the Reno Aces (AAA Diamondbacks) club comes to Isotopes Park for the first time ever. The Aces relocated from Tucson to Reno after the 2008 season and the Isotopes played their only 2009 series against the Aces in Reno. Probables in the opener are RHP Josh Lindblom (2-1, 6.05) for the Isotopes and former major-leaguer RHP Kris Benson (1-0, 0.00) for the Aces.

Filed 05/23/2010

May 22, 2010 - Isotopes (21-19)


Isotopes Park

Las Vegas       220 130 101 --  10  19  1
Albuquerque     301 205 00x --  11  16  2

WP: Hyang-Nam Choi (1-1)
LP: Rey Gonzalez (4-3)
SV: Scott Dohmann (1)

HR: LVG Brian Dopirak (4) off Etherton (5th inning)
    LVG Brian Dopirak (5) off Dohmann (9th inning)
    LVG Aaron Mathews (2) off Etherton (4th inning)
    LVG Jorge Padilla (1) off Etherton (5th inning)

    ALB Jamie Hoffmann (3) off Gonzalez (3rd inning)

TIME: 3:02
ATT: 10,485
Jamie Hoffmann homered and extended his long hitting streak and the Isotopes pitching staff allowed four homers yet Albuquerque was able to outslug the Las Vegas 51s (AAA Blue Jays) 11-10 on Saturday evening.

J.P. Arencibia singled home a run and Chris Lubanski doubled home another run as the 51s built a 2-0 lead after a half inning of play.

In the home half of the 1st inning, Hoffmann walked with one out, Jay Gibbons singled, and John Lindsey doubled home Hoffmann. Russ Mitchell's single brought Gibbons and Lindsey home as Albuquerque led 3-2.

The 51s regained the lead in the 2nd inning. An error allowed the tying run to score and Luis Figueroa singled home the go-ahead run.

Hoffmann solo homered in the 3rd inning to tie the game at 4-4.

Las Vegas regained the lead in the 4th inning on Aaron Mathews solo homer, but the Isotopes took the lead back in their half of the inning. Mitchell and Lucas May singled and both scored on Ivan DeJesus Jr.'s double. DeJesus Jr. was thrown out at third base trying to stretch the double into a triple, but that did not matter much as Albuquerque led 6-5.

In the 5th inning, Brian Dopirak solo homered and Jorge Padilla two-run homered as the 51s built a 8-6 lead.

Las Vegas' lead actually held until the 6th inning when Albuquerque reclaimed the lead for good with a five run outburst. May singled and took second base on a wild pitch. DeJesus Jr. walked and Timo Perez singled home May. Hoffmann doubled home DeJesus Jr. and Gibbons singled home Perez. Hoffmann scored when Lindsey reached on an error and Prentice Redman singled home Gibbons as the Isotopes led 11-8.

Mathews doubled home a run in the 7th inning and Dopirak solo homered in the 9th inning for the 51s' final runs of the game.

Seth Etherton made his first start for Albuquerque since rejoining the team and allowed 6 runs and 11 hits in 5 innings while fanning 3. Etherton allowed three out the four Las Vegas homers.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x2, 1 R, 2 RBI (12), 2 BB, .234 AVG
Lucas May: 2x4, 2 R, 1 K, .292 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
The Isotopes placed IF Chin-Lung Hu on the Disabled List with a broken nose and added IF Justin Sellers from Class-A Inland Empire. . . . Jamie Hoffmann's streak stands at 16 games after tonight's contest. Others with double-digit active hitting streaks are Russ Mitchell (11 games) and John Lindsey (12 games). Jay Gibbons' hitting streak is not quite at double-digits - 8 games. . . . Seth Etherton allowed the most hits from a starter this season - 11. . . . The Isotope and 51s play their final meeting of the season on Sunday afternoon. Probables are LHP Scott Elbert (1-1, 5.85) for the Isotopes and RHP Lance Broadway (1-5, 6.97) for the 51s.

Filed 05/22/2010

May 21, 2010 - Isotopes (20-19)


Isotopes Park

Las Vegas      000 022 000 --   4  10  0
Albuquerque    200 000 71x --  10  16  0

WP: James McDonald (3-1)
LP: Jesse Litsch (0-1)

HR: ALB Jay Gibbons (7) off Litsch (1st inning)
    ALB Chin-Lung Hu (1) off Litsch (7th inning)
    ALB Russ Mitchell (3) off Jackson (7th inning)

TIME: 2:23
ATT: 9,490
Jay Gibbons, Chin-Lung Hu, and Russ Mitchell powered seven of the Isotopes' 10 runs and Isotopes manager Tim Wallach achieved a milestone victory as the Isotopes defeated the Las Vegas 51s (AAA Blue Jays) 10-4 on Friday evening at The Lab. Albuquerque snapped a three game losing streak with the victory.

In the 1st inning, Jamie Hoffmann singled with one out and Gibbons followed with his team-lead tying 7th homer as Albuquerque quickly led 2-0.

The Isotopes made that lead stand until the 5th inning when Las Vegas got on the scoreboard. Jesus Merchan singled home a run and Brett Wallace doubled to drive in a run to tie the game at 2-2.

In the 6th inning, Las Vegas' Jorge Padilla reached on a fielder's choice and scored on former-Isotope Chris Aguila's triple. Jarrett Hoffpauir followed with a single to drive in Aguila as the 51s led 4-2.

Albuquerque took the lead and put the game away with a seven run 7th inning. Lucas May and Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled to lead off the inning and Hu followed with his first homer of the season, a three-run shot. Timo Perez flied out, Hoffmann singled, and Gibbons popped out before John Lindsey doubled. Michael Restovich singled home Hoffmann and Lindsey before scoring on Mitchell's two run homer as Albuquerque led 9-4.

Perez tripled and scored on Hoffmann's single in the 8th inning for the final run of the game.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x3, 1 R, .230 AVG
Lucas May: 3x4, 1 R, .282 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
P Seth Etherton was transferred from Class-R Ogden to Albuquerque on Friday to take the roster spot of P Josh Towers, who was released yesterday. . . . The win was Tim Wallach's 100th victory as Isotopes manager. Wallach is 100-83 in regular season games as Isotopes manager and needs 262 more wins to tie Dean Treanor for the most Isotope manager regular season victories. . . . Jamie Hoffmann turned in a three hit game and extended his hitting streak to 15 games, the longest for an Isotope this season. Also extending long hitting streaks were Russ Mitchell (10 games) and John Lindsey (11 games). . . . The series continues on Saturday evening. Probables are RHP Seth Etherton (0-0, 3.60) for the Isotopes and RHP Rey Gonzalez (4-2, 7.78) for the 51s.

Filed 05/21/2010

May 20, 2010 - Isotopes (19-19)


Isotopes Park

Las Vegas       001 020 100 --  4  10  0
Albuquerque     000 000 200 --  2   9  1

WP: Brad Mills (4-3)
LP: Tim Corcoran (3-3)
SV: Jeremy Accardo (4)

HR: ALB Lucas May (3) off Mills (7th inning)

TIME: 2:50
ATT: 8,295
Isotopes starter Tim Corcoran was not too bad in the contest, allowing four runs in his 6 2/3 innings of work, but it was Albuquerque grounding into a franchise-record tying five double plays that killed what could have been some rallies as the Isotopes lost to the Las Vegas 51s (AAA Blue Jays) 4-2 in the series opener at The Lab on Thursday evening. Albuquerque has dropped three straight contests.

Corcoran's 9 1/3 scoreless innings streak came to an end in the 3rd inning when Kyle Phillips doubled and scored on Jarrett Hoffpauir's double.

Hoffpauir doubled home two runs in the 5th inning and Luis Figueroa singled home Hoffpauir in the 7th inning as the 51s built their lead to 4-0.

Lucas May solo homered to lead off the bottom of the 7th inning to ruin the shutout. Michael Restovich tripled, JD Closser drew a walk, and Chin-Lung Hu grounded into a double play with Restovich scoring and that double play ended up being an important rally killer as Jamie Hoffmann followed with a ground-rule double but was stranded when Ivan DeJesus Jr. grounded out to end the inning.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x4, 2 K, .228 AVG
Lucas May: 1x4, 1 R, 1 HR (3) , 1 RBI (14), .259 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
In Isotopes transaction news, P Josh Towers was released. Towers, who went 2-2 with a 3.00 ERA in his first five starts, fell apart in his final three starts, going 0-3 with 27 runs (24 earned) allowed in 8 innings for a 27.00 ERA. OF Timo Perez was added from Extended Spring to the Isotopes roster to take the place of OF Xavier Paul who was recalled by the Dodgers. . . . Albuquerque's record is 19-19, the first time the Isotopes have been at the .500 mark since April 19th. . . . Jamie Hoffmann doubled to extend his hitting streak to an 2010 Isotope best 14 games. Others extending long hitting streaks were John Lindsey (10 games) and Russ Mitchell (9 games). . . . In former Isotope player news, P Luis Ayala, who requested to be waived on May 17th when the Dodgers failed to add him to their roster, signed a contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks and was promptly sent to Triple-A Reno Aces of the Pacific Coast League. Assuming no callup in the next few days, Ayala will come to Albuquerque as a member of the Aces in a series with the Isotopes beginning May 24th. IF Val Pascucci is once again in the minor leagues. Pascucci was waived by the New York Mets towards the end of spring training and played with Camden of the independent Atlantic League for several games before the Mets re-signed him and sent him to their Triple-A Buffalo club. . . . The series continues on Friday evening with the Isotopes expected to send RHP James McDonald (2-1, 5.77) to the mound against Toronto Blue Jays RHP Jesse Litsch (No Record). Litsch is with the 51s on a rehabilitation assignment.

Filed 05/20/2010

May 18, 2010 - Isotopes (19-18)


Spring Mobile Ballpark

Albuquerque     000 013 000 --   4  14  2
Salt Lake       090 000 01x --  10  13  1

WP: Daniel Davidson (4-1)
LP: Josh Towers (2-5)

HR: ALB Ramon Nivar (1) off Davidson (5th inning)

    SLC Hank Conger (4) off Towers (2nd inning)

TIME: 2:50
ATT: 15,092
Josh Towers probably wishes the rain would have continued and cancelled the game. The start of the game was delayed by rain and the outcome after the rain let up may have put Towers' starting rotation job in jeopardy. For the third start in a row, Towers was battered and in today's outing, Towers allowed 9 runs and 10 hits and wasn't able to make it out of the second inning as the Salt Lake Bees (AAA Angels) cruised to a 10-4 victory over the Isotopes in the series finale on Tuesday afternoon.

In the 2nd inning, Salt Lake's Hank Conger singled with one out and Ryan Budde walked. Hainley Statia doubled home Conger and Budde before scoring on Gary Patchett's single. Peter Bourjos singled and Nate Sutton singled to drive in Patchett. After Robb Quinlan infield flied out, Cory Aldridge doubled home Bourjos and Sutton. Mark Trumbo singled to drive in Aldridge and Conger followed with a two run homer as the Bees sent 14 batters to the plate and lead 9-0.

Ramon Nivar solo homered for Albuquerque in the 5th inning to get the Isotopes on the scoreboard and Albuquerque added more runs in the 6th inning. Russ Mitchell singled and scored on Michael Restovich's double. After JD Closser grounded out, Nivar singled home Restovich. Jamie Hoffmann and Chin-Lung Hu singled to load the bases and Jay Gibbons sacrifice flied out to bring home Nivar as the Isotopes trailed 9-4.

Quinlan walked and scored on Trumbo's triple in the 8th inning for the final run of the game.


'TOPES NOTES:
While the Isotopes have the day off Wednesday, Xavier Paul will once again be plying his trade in the major leagues. The Dodgers placed OF Andre Ethier on the disabled list and recalled Paul from Albuquerque. . . . Salt Lake won three out of the four games in the series, handing the Isotopes their third series loss out of 10 series played so far in 2010. 35,929 attended at Spring Mobile Ballpark for a per-game average of 8,982. Today's game marked the final meeting between the two clubs in 2010 and Salt Lake leads the all-time series 17-14 and each team has 8 wins all-time in games played in Salt Lake City. . . . The start of the game was delayed 1 hour, 10 minutes by rain. It was Albuquerque's first rain delay of the season. . . . Jamie Hoffmann hit safely to extend his hitting streak to 13 games, an Isotope season best. John Lindsey extended his hitting streak to 9 games and Russ Mitchell extended his hitting streak to 8 games. . . . Prentice Redman was the only Isotope starter without a hit and snapped a 9-game hitting streak. . . . Josh Towers turned in Albuquerque's shortest starting pitcher outing of the season that was not injury related (1 2/3 innings). Over his last three starts, Towars tossed 8 innings and allowed 29 hits, 27 runs (24 earned) for an ERA of 27.00. Towers leads the Isotopes in losses with 5. . . . The Dodgers named their April Dodger Pride award winners at each minor league level. At the Triple-A level, the Dodger Pride award pitcher is John Ely. Ely went 2-1 in April with a 3.00 ERA and held opposing hitters to a .235 average. The Dodger Pride award hitter is John Lindsey. Lindsey led the PCL in batting average (.455), hits, extra-base hits, doubles, on-base percentage and slugging percentage during the month of April. Lindsey was also among the league leaders in runs, total bases and RBI during April. . . . After a day off on Wednesday, the Isotopes begin an eight game homestand against teams from the state of Nevada. First up is a four game series against the Las Vegas 51s (AAA Blue Jays). Probables in the opener on Thursday evening are RHP Tim Corcoran (3-2, 4.55) for the Isotopes and LHP Brad Mills (3-3, 3.68) for the 51s. While the Isotopes are one game back in the American Conference Southern Division and a game above .500, the 51s are six games below .500 and have dug themselves a 10.5 game back hole in the Pacific Conference Southern Division.

Filed 05/18/2010

May 17, 2010 - Isotopes (19-17)


Spring Mobile Ballpark

Albuquerque     004 000 001 --  5  12  1
Salt Lake       300 200 001 --  6   8  1

WP: Rafael Rodriguez (3-3)
LP: Hyang-Nam Choi (0-1)

TIME: 3:02
ATT: 5,584
The Isotopes are a very charitable club off the field, but they should learn not to be so charitable between the lines. For the second time in the series, an Isotope error in the bottom of the 9th inning allowed the Salt Lake Bees (AAA Angels) to walk off with a victory. The Bees took a 6-5 victory over Albuquerque on Monday evening in Salt Lake City.

In the 1st inning, Cory Aldridge doubled home a run and Mark Trumbo singled home two runs as the Bees quickly led 3-0.

Albuquerque erased the defecit in the 3rd inning. Chin-Lung Hu singled with one out and stole second base. After Xavier Paul struck out, Ivan DeJesus Jr. walked. Hu stole third base on the walk and Jay Gibbons followed with a two-run double. John Lindsey's single plated Gibbons and Lindsey scored on Prentice Redman's single as Albuquerque led 4-3.

Aldridge singled home two runs in the 4th inning as the Bees regained the lead at 5-4.

The Bees held onto the slim lead until the 9th inning. In the Isotopes half of the inning, Russ Mitchell singled, advanced to second base on Hu's sacrifice bunt, and scored on Paul's double to tie the game at 5-5.

In the bottom of the 9th inning, Robb Quinlan drew a leadoff walk and was replaced by pinch-runner Peter Bourjos. Aldridge singled to put runners on the corners and Trumbo was intentionally walked to load the bases and set up force out opportunities. With Hank Conger at the plate, Isotopes reliever Brent Leach threw the ball away on a pickoff attempt for an error, allowing Bourjos to scamper home with the game-winning run.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x3, 1 R, 1 2B (10), 2 BB, .235 AVG
Xavier Paul: 3x5, 1 2B (5), 1 RBI (11), 1 K, .388 AVG
Lucas May: 0x3, .260 AVG
Josh Lindblom: ND, 4 IP, 6 H, 5 R, 5 ER, 6 BB, 3 K, 0 HR, 6.05 ERA

'TOPES NOTES:
The Isotopes will have a new closer as P Luis Ayala was released on Monday. Ayala had a clause in his contact that he signed this offseason that allowed him to request to be released if he was not added to the Dodgers roster by a certain date. Ayala made the request when the Dodgers failed to add him to their roster. Replacing Ayala on the Isotopes roster is P Hyang-Nam Choi, who was transferred from Extended Spring. . . . Jamie Hoffmann hit safely in the game to extend his hitting streak to 12 games, tying the mark he set earlier in the season for the longest Isotope hitting streak of 2010. Others extending reasonably long hitting streaks were Russ Mitchell (7 games), John Lindsey (8 games) and Prentice Redman (9 games). . . . Bees reliever Rafael Rodriguez was the beneficiary of both of the Isotopes' bottom of the 9th inning miscues in the series. Rodriguez was the winning pitcher in both Saturday evening's opener and Monday evening's game. . . . Alex Gordon of the Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) is the PCL Hitter of the Week. Gordon hit .500 (11x22) with 3 homers and 10 RBIs as he took out his anger on PCL pitching after his recent demotion from the Kansas City Royals. . . . P.J. Walters of the Memphis Redbirds (AAA Cardinals) is the PCL Pitcher of the Week. Walters started two games and won one of them, compiling a 0.00 ERA (no earned runs in 14 innings) while allowing 7 hits, 3 walks and fanning 14. . . . The series concludes Tuesday morning. Probables are RHP Josh Towers (2-4, 6.19) for the Isotopes and LHP Daniel Davidson (3-1, 5.88) for the Bees.

Filed 05/17/2010

May 16, 2010 - Isotopes (19-16)


Spring Mobile Ballpark

Albuquerque     002 004 100 --  7  12  0
Salt Lake       020 000 000 --  2   2  0

WP: Scott Elbert (1-1)
LP: Sean O'Sullivan (3-4)

HR: ALB Prentice Redman (6) off O'Sullivan (6th inning)
    ALB Prentice Redman (7) off Fernando Rodriguez (7th inning)
    ALB John Lindsey (5) off O'Sullivan (3rd inning)

TIME: 2:35
ATT: 6,739
Isotopes starter Scott Elbert allowed 2 runs in 5 1/3 innings to earn his first victory of the season and Prentice Redman homered twice as the Isotopes defeated the Salt Lake Bees (AAA Angels) 7-2 on Sunday afternoon in Salt Lake City.

Elbert's wildness led to the Bees taking a 2-0 lead in the 2nd inning. Cory Aldridge singled, Hank Conger reached on a fielder's choice and Nick Gorneault drew a walk to load the bags. Hainley Statia followed with a walk as Aldridge trotted home and Nate Sutton grounded out to drive in Conger.

One swing of the bat in the 3rd inning tied the game. Jay Gibbons singled with two outs and scored on John Lindsey's homer.

The game remained knotted until the 6th inning. Lindsey singled and scored on Redman's homer to give the Isotopes the lead. Lucas May singled and scored on Russ Mitchell's double and Mitchell later scored on Chin-Lung Hu's sacrifice flyout as Albuquerque led 6-2.

Redman's solo homer in the 7th inning closed out the scoring in the game.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x5, 2 K, .233 AVG
Lucas May: 1x4, 1 R, .270 AVG
Scott Elbert: W (1-1), 5.1 IP, 2 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 6 BB, 5 K, 0 HR, 6.40 ERA

'TOPES NOTES:
The Isotopes victory snapped a three game losing streak in games played at Spring Mobile Ballpark. . . . Scott Elbert, Travis Schlichting, and Justin Miller combined on a two-hitter, the fewest hits allowed in a game this season. . . . Jamie Hoffmann singled once in five at-bats to extend his hitting streak to 11 games. Several other teammates have current hitting streaks longer than five games: Russ Mitchell (6 games), John Lindsey (7 games), and Prentice Redman (8 games). . . . Redman has two multi-homer games this season - a three-homer game and a two-homer game. . . . The Isotopes love the sunlight. Albuquerque is 8-3 in day games while they have a 11-13 losing record under the stars. . . . The series continues Monday evening. Probables are RHP Josh Lindblom (2-1, 5.50) for the Isotopes and LHP Will Smith (0-1, 6.75) for the Bees.

Filed 05/16/2010

May 15, 2010 - Isotopes (18-16)


Spring Mobile Ballpark

Albuquerque     220 400 210 --  11  21  1
Salt Lake       202 003 113 --  12  14  2

WP: Rafael Rodriguez (2-3)
LP: Luis Ayala (1-3)

TIME: 3:30
ATT: 8,514
For the second time in five games, Isotopes reliever Luis Ayala entered the game looking for the save and ended up blowing the save and allowing the game-winning runs as the Salt Lake Bees (AAA Angels) plated three runs in the bottom of the 9th inning to sting the Isotopes 12-11 on Saturday evening in the series opener.

Albuquerque got off to a good start in the 1st inning. Ivan DeJesus Jr. and Xavier Paul singled with one out and both scored on John Lindsey's double as the isotopes led 2-0.

Robb Quinlan and Cory Aldrige singled home runs in the home half of the 1st inning as the Bees tied the game at 2-2.

In the 2nd inning, Ramon Nivar singled and scored on Jamie Hoffmann's triple as the Isotopes regained the lead. Paul doubled home Hoffmann to extend the Isotope led to 4-2.

The Bees tied up the game at 4-4 in the 3rd inning on an RBI single from Terry Evans and a Bobby Wilson sacrifice flyout.

Albuquerque regained the lead in the 4th inning. Lindsey doubled and Prentice Redman and Lucas May singled to load the bases before May made a baserunning blunder to be tagged out for the first out of the inning. Russ Mitchell singled home Lindsey and Nivar doubled home Redman before Hoffmann singled home Mitchell and Nivar as the Isotopes led 8-4.

The Bees edged to a run down at 8-7 with a three-run 6th inning highlighted by Evans' two-run triple.

Jay Gibbons singled with one out in the 7th inning, Lindsey doubled and an out later, May singled home Gibbons and Lindsey as the Isotopes added some breathing room at 10-7.

Hank Conger walked and scored on Hainley Statia's double in the home half of the 7th inning as the Bees trailed 10-8.

Each of the clubs swapped a run in the 8th inning. Hoffmann scored on an error in the top half, Evans sacrifice flied out to drive in a run in the bottom half.

Ayala entered the game with the Isotopes leading 11-9 in the bottom of the 9th inning. Wilson walked and Mark Trumbo singled. Conger laid down a sacrifice bunt to advance both runners into scoring position before Statia tripled home Wilson and Trumbo to tie the game at 11-11. Gary Patchett and Nate Sutton were intentionally walked to load the bases and set up force play potentials. Evans put a ball into play and Isotope first baseman Lindsey came home to force out Statia. Isotopes catcher May's throwing error trying to get Evans out at first base allowed Patchett to score with the game winning run.

Isotopes starter James McDonald was roughed up for 10 hits and 7 runs in 5 2/3 innings. McDonald struckout 6 Bees.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x5, 1 R, 1 BB, 1 K, .234 AVG
Xavier Paul: 2x2, 1 R, 1 2B (5), 1 RBI (11), .382 AVG
Lucas May: 3x4, 2 RBI (13), 2 BB, .271 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
Xavier Paul was pinch-hit for in the 3rd inning, fueling speculation that Paul might be headed back to the Dodgers if the Dodgers place Andre Ethier on the Disabled List with an injured pinkie finger. . . . The Bees and Isotopes combined for a season-high 35 hits. The Isotopes had 21 of those hits, tying a season best. Albuquerque set franchise records for most combined hits in a road game (35) and most hits in a road game (21). . . . John Lindsey tied a franchise record with three doubles in the game. . . . Jamie Hoffmann hit safely to extend his hitting streak to 10 games. . . . The Isotopes left a season-high 16 men on base. . . . The Bees have a couple of people with New Mexico ties. The Bees are managed by Bobby Mitchell, a former Albuquerque Duke. A reliever on the Bees, Gabe DeHoyos, went to college at Eastern New Mexico. DeHoyos tossed 2 1/3 innings of scoreless ball while allowing 2 hits and fanning 3 Isotopes in tonight's contest. . . . The series continues Sunday afternoon. Probables are LHP Scott Elbert (0-1, 7.00) for the Isotopes and RHP Sean O'Sullivan (3-3, 5.03) for the Bees.

Filed 05/15/2010

Isotopes/Sky Sox Rained Out

The Isotopes and Colorado Springs Sky Sox (AAA Rockies) were cancelled due to rain on Friday evening. With the clubs only meeting for four games each season, the game will not be made up. It was Albuquerque's third game rained out of the season, all on the road. All-time, Albuquerque has had two games cancelled and lost to schedule in meetings against the Sky Sox, both in Colorado Springs. Albuquerque took two of the three games in the rain-shortened series. 10,250 fans attended at Security Service Field for a per-game average of 3,417. The Isotopes have won five out of their nine series played so far in 2010. The Isotopes travel to Salt Lake City to play the Salt Lake Bees (AAA Angels) for their only four games of the season beginning Saturday night. Probables are to-be-announced for both clubs.
Filed 05/14/2010

May 13, 2010 - Isotopes (18-15)


Security Service Field

Albuquerque       002 020 210 --  7  11  1
Colorado Springs  200 000 000 --  2   7  2

WP: Tim Corcoran (3-2)
LP: Brandon Durden (0-1)

HR: ALB JD Closser (1) off Wilhite (8th inning)

TIME: 2:44
ATT: 6,054
Isotopes starter Tim Corcoran struck out seven and allowed two runs in 7 2/3 innings and Russ Mitchell and Jay Gibbons each drove in a pair of runs as the Isotopes defeated the Colorado Springs Sky Sox (AAA Rockies) 7-2 on Thursday afternoon.

Corcoran allowed his runs in the 1st inning. Brad Eldred singled home Chris Frey and then came around to score on Jay Payton's double.

The Isotopes tied the game in the 3rd inning with a trio of doubles. Corcoran doubled to lead off the inning and scored two outs later on Jamie Hoffmann's double. Gibbons doubled home Hoffmann to make it 2-2.

Doubles helped Albuquerque take a 4-2 lead in the 5th inning. Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled and scored an out later on Gibbons' double. Another out later, Mitchell doubled home Gibbons.

In the 7th inning, Hoffmann reached on an error, stole second base, and scored on Michael Restovich's single. Restovich advanced to second base on the throw and scored on Mitchell's double.

JD Closser solo homered in the 8th inning for the final run of the game.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x5, 1 R, 2 K, .227 AVG
Xavier Paul: 2x5, 1 K, .365 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
Tim Corcoran's 7 2/3 innings of work was the longest Isotope starting pitcher outing of the season. . . . Jamie Hoffmann extended his hitting streak to 9 games. . . . Colorado Springs' Matt Miller extended his hitting streak to 21 games. . . . The series concludes Friday evening. Probables are RHP James McDonald (2-1, 4.71) for the Isotopes and RHP Chaz Roe (1-5, 6.37) for the Sky Sox.

Filed 05/13/2010

May 12, 2010 - Isotopes (17-15)


Security Service Field

Albuquerque       131 000 000 --   5   9  1
Colorado Springs  302 300 12x --  11  17  1

WP: Kurt Birkins (1-2)
LP: Josh Towers (2-4)

HR: ALB Xavier Paul (4) off Birkins (1st inning)

    CSP Brad Eldred (4) off Towers (1st inning)
    CSP Chris Nelson (1) off Towers (3rd inning)

TIME: 2:22
ATT: 1,491
Josh Towers was rocked for the second straight start as the Colorado Springs Sky Sox (AAA Rockies) defeated the Isotoeps 11-5 on a chilly Wednesday evening in Colorado Springs.

Xavier Paul solo homered in the 1st inning for the first run of the game.

The Sky Sox plated three runs in the bottom of the 1st inning. Chris Frey doubled, advanced to third base on Chris Nelson's sacrifice bunt, and scored on Matt Miller's groundout. Brad Eldred solo homered with two outs, then Chris Iannetta singled and scored on Jay Payton's triple.

Albuquerque regained the lead in the 2nd inning. Prentice Redman singled and an out later, Russ Mitchell doubled. Chin-Lung Hu's single plated Redman and Mitchell. Hu went to second base on Towers' sacrifice bunt and scored on Jamie Hoffmann's single as Albuquerque led 4-3.

The Isotopes scored their final run in the 3rd inning. Redman tripled and scored when Lucas May reached on an error.

Nelson's solo homer was part of a two-run 3rd inning as the Sky Sox tied the game at 5-5 and Colorado Springs took the lead in the 4th inning. Chris Frey's run-scoring triple gave the Sky Sox the lead. Frey scored on a groundout and Payton drew a bases loaded walk later in the inning.

The Sky Sox remained without more runs until the 7th inning when Frey had a run-scoring single to give the Sky Sox a 9-5 lead and Colorado Springs added their final two runs in the 8th inning when Eldred and Travis Metcalf each drove in a run with a double.

Towers allowed 8 runs and 10 hits in his 3 2/3 innings of work.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x4, 1 K, .228 AVG
Xavier Paul: 2x4, 1 R, 1 HR (4), 1 RBI (10), .362 AVG
Lucas May: 0x4, 2 K, .242 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
Jamie Hoffmann hit safely to extend his hitting streak to 8 games. That streak pales in comparison to the Sky Sox's Matt Miller, who extended his hitting streak to 20 games tonight. . . . The crowd of 1,491 was the smallest one the Isotopes played in front of in 2010. With temperatures in the 30s most of the game, who could blame the fans for wanting to stay home in the warmth. . . . Josh Towers in his last two starts has two losses and a 21.32 ERA. In 6 1/3 innings over those two starts, Towers has allowed 19 hits and 18 runs (15 earned). . . . The two clubs hope to warm up with an day game on Thursday. Probables are RHP Tim Corcoran (2-2, 5.40) for the Isotopes and the Sky Sox will start a pitcher to be named later.

Filed 05/12/2010

May 11, 2010 - Isotopes (17-14)


Security Service Field

Albuquerque       301 100 100 --  6  17  1
Colorado Springs  400 000 010 --  5   9  1

WP: Josh Lindblom (2-1)
LP: Josh Muecke (0-2)
SV: Travis Schlichting (1)

HR: CSP Chris Iannetta (4) off Lindblom (1st inning)

TIME: 3:02
ATT: 2,705
Isotopes starter Josh Lindblom was rocked early in the 1st inning but recovered and pitched excellent after that and John Lindsey had a five-hit game as the Isotopes defeated the Colorado Springs Sky Sox (AAA Rockies) 6-5 in the series opener in Colorado Springs on Tuesday evening.


The first inning was really exciting for both clubs. In the top half, Jamie Hoffmann singled and after Ivan DeJesus Jr. flied out, Xavier Paul returned to the Isotopes lineup with a single to put runners on the corners. Lindsey ground-rule doubled to drive in Hoffmann and Prentice Redman singled home Paul and Lindsey as Albuquerque led 3-0.

Lindblom gave up that lead with one swing of the bat in the home half of the inning. With one out, Chris Nelson walked, Cole Garner and Matt Miller singled to load the bags and Chris Iannetta cleared them with a grand slam homer. Lindblom would be stellar after that rocky start, tossing scoreless ball for the next 5 2/3 innings.

While Lindblom found his scoreless inning groove, his teammates got him the lead. In the 3rd inning, Lindsey tripled and scored on Redman's single to tie the game and the Isotopes took the lead in the 4th inning. Chin-Lung Hu singled, advanced to second base on Lindblom's sacrifice bunt, took third on a groundout and scored when DeJesus Jr. reached on a throwing error.

The Isotopes made it 6-4 in the 7th inning. Lucas May singled with two outs and Russ Mitchell and Hu followed with singles to load the bases before a wild pitch brought Hu home.

Reliever Travis Schlichting gave the rest of the Isotopes bullpen the night off, taking over for Lindblom in the 7th inning and holding off the Sky Sox over the final three innings for the save. Schlichting's only blemish on the scoreboard was allowing an 8th inning Sky Sox run on a Matt Miller run-scoring single..

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x4, .236 AVG
Xavier Paul: 1x4, 1 R, 1 BB, 1 K, .354 AVG
Lucas May: 0x3, 1 R, 2 BB, 1 K, .258 AVG
Josh Lindblom: W (2-1), 6 IP, 4 H, 4 R, 4 ER, 2 BB, 5 K, 1 HR, 5.50 ERA

'TOPES NOTES:
In a paper move, OF Timo Perez was transferred from the Isotopes to Class-Rookie Ogden Raptors to free up roster room for OF Xavier Paul, who reported to the Isotopes tonight and played in the game. . . . John Lindsey tied a franchise record with his five hits, the seventh Isotope to have a five hit game. Lindsey was a homer shy of hitting for the cycle. . . . Jamie Hoffmann had three hits in the game and extended his hitting streak to 7 games. . . . Chris Iannetta's grand-slam homer was the first grand slam given up by Isotope pitching in 2010. . . . Brett Pill of the Fresno Grizzlies (AAA Giants) is the PCL Hitter of the Week. Pill hit .478 (11x23) with a homer and 8 RBI during the week. . . . Robert Ray of the Las Vegas 51s (AAA Blue Jays) is the PCL Pitcher of the Week. Ray made two starts with one of them a complete game shutout and went 1-0 with a 1.80 ERA during the award week. In 15 innings over the two starts, Ray allowed 3 runs and struck out 10. . . . The series continues on Wednesday evening. Probables are RHP Josh Towers (2-3, 4.68) for the Isotopes and a pitcher to be announced for the Sky Sox.

Filed 05/11/2010

May 10, 2010 - Isotopes (16-14)


Isotopes Park

Nashville       010 010 212 --  7  14  1
Albuquerque     020 100 030 --  6  12  2

WP: John Axford (3-2)
LP: Luis Ayala (1-2)
SV: Chris Smith (12)

HR: NSH Joe Koshansky (5) off Ayala (9th inning)

TIME: 3:21
ATT: 11,272
In front of the largest home crowd of the season, Nashville Sounds (AAA Brewers) hitter Joe Koshansky capped a great series for him with a two-run 9th inning pinch-hit homer as the Sounds came back to defeat the Isotopes 7-6 on Monday afternoon at "The Lab".

Adam Stern singled home a run in the 2nd inning as the Sounds led 1-0.

In the home half of the 2nd inning, Michael Restovich doubled and scored on Russ Mitchell's double. Mitchell took third base on a wild pitch and scored on Chin-Lung Hu's single as the Isotopes led 2-1.

Albuquerque extended the lead in the 4th inning when Restovich doubled and later scored on Hu's sacrifice flyout.

Luis Cruz drove home a run in the 5th inning as Nashville pulled to 3-2, and the Sounds took the lead in the 7th inning when Cruz doubled home two runs.

Norris Hopper's 8th inning single gave the Sounds a 5-3 lead. In the home half of the frame, Prentice Redman singled and John Lindsey reached on an error. Pinch-runner Timo Perez entered the game for Lindsey and Redman and Perez executed a double steal. After Restovich struck out for the first out of the inning, Mitchell singled home Redman and JD Closser walked to load the bases. Hu reached on a fielder's choice to bring home Perez and pinch-hitter Jay Gibbons singled home Mitchell as the Isotopes led 6-5.

In the 9th inning, Adam Heether doubled to start the inning and an out later, Koshansky belted his pinch-hit eventual game-winning homer.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x4, 2 K, .245 AVG
Scott Elbert: ND, 5 IP, 8 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 4 BB, 6 K, 0 HR, 2 WP, HBP, 7.00 ERA

'TOPES NOTES:
The Dodgers placed knuckleballer P Charlie Haeger on their disabled list with plantar fascitis in his right foot and recalled P John Ely from Albuquerque. . . . The Sounds and Isotopes split the series and 37,557 attended for a per-game average of 9,389. . . . If you love runs, this series was for you! The clubs combined for 68 runs in the four games (Albuquerque 36 runs; Nashville 32 runs). . . . The Isotopes drew their 100,000th home fan (105,764) in the 16th home game of the season today. Albuquerque achieved that mark in their 14th home game last season. . . . Isotope opponents have scored their game winning runs in their last at-bats four times this season. Today's game was the first one where the last at-bat game winning runs came on a homer. . . . Joe Koshansky homered in three out of the four games for Nashville. . . . Albuquerque begins a string of 16 games against Pacific Conference division foes. Tuesday night, the Isotopes head to Colorado Springs to play their only four games of the season against the Colorado Springs Sky Sox (AAA Rockies). Probables in the opener are RHP Josh Lindblom (1-1, 5.40) for the Isotopes and LHP Josh Muecke (0-1, 8.31) for the Sky Sox.

Filed 05/10/2010

May 9, 2010 - Isotopes (16-13)


Isotopes Park

Nashville       011 000 361 --  12  16  3
Albuquerque     000 502 80x --  15  18  0

WP: James McDonald (2-1)
LP: Marco Estrada (1-2)

HR: NSH Drew Anderson (1) off McDonald (2nd inning)
    NSH Trent Oeltjen (2) off McDonald (3rd inning)
    NSH Ben Johnson (1) off Dohmann (9th inning)

    ALB Jamie Hoffmann (2) off Braddack (7th inning)

TIME: 3:33
ATT: 8,400
Jamie Hoffmann and Timo Perez combined to drive in about half of Albuquerque's runs in a 15-12 slugfest victory over the Nashville Sounds (AAA Brewers) on Mother's Day at The Lab. The Isotopes have won two straight games.

Drew Anderson solo-homered in the 2nd inning and Trent Oeltjen added a solo homer in the 3rd inning as the Sounds led 2-0.

The Isotopes took the lead in the 4th inning. Lucas May singled and scored an out later on Hoffmann's triple. Russ Mitchell drew a walk and Chin-Lung Hu singled home Hoffmann. An error on the play allowed Mitchell to take third base. Isotopes starter James McDonald reached on a sacrifice bunt to load the bags and Timo Perez singled home Mitchell and Hu. Ivan DeJesus Jr.'s single scored McDonald as the Topes led 5-2.

The Isotopes added to the lead in the 6th inning. Hu singled and Perez singled with Hu going to third base. DeJesus Jr. doubled home Hu and May singled home Perez as Albuquerque led 7-2.

The Sounds pulled to 7-5 in the 7th inning by scoring three runs - one on a wild pitch, one by John Raburn's single, and one when Adam Heether sacrifice flied out.

The Isotopes added some very important breathing room in their half of the 7th inning. Hoffmann was hit by a pitch to get things started. Russ Mitchell sacrifice bunted Hoffmann to second base and Hu singled Hoffmann home. Hu went to third base on Prentice Redman's single and scored on Perez's single. DeJesus Jr. and Isotopes reliever Jon Link drew walks to load the bases with Link's walk scoring Redman. After May struck out, JD Closser singled home Perez and DeJesus Jr. Hoffmann came up for the second time in the inning and three-run homered. When the inning was over, Albuquerque sent 11 batters to the plate and scored 8 runs to lead 15-5.

Oeltjen's three-run double highlighted a six-run 8th inning for Nashville as the Sounds edged to 15-11 and Ben Johnson solo homered in the 9th inning to make it the 15-12 final.

McDonald struck out 6 Sounds and allowed 5 runs and 8 hits in 6 innings.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 3x5, 2 R, 3 RBI (10), 1 BB, .250 AVG
Lucas May: 2x5, 1 R, 1 RBI (11), 1 K, .271 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
The Isotopes had season highs in runs scored (15), most runs scored in an inning (8), combined runs scored (27), combined hits (34) and longest 9-inning game (3 hours, 33 minutes). . . . The Isotopes haven't been very successful on Mother's Day, but today's victory made it a two game winning streak. All-time, the Isotopes are 3-5 on Mother's Day and 2-4 at home. . . . Lucas May and Jamie Hoffmann extended their hitting streaks to 5 games. . . . In former-Isotope news, the Phillies called up C Paul Hoover from Triple-A Lehigh Valley. . . . The series (and quick homestand) concludes with a Monday afternoon game. Probables are LHP Scott Elbert (1-1, 3.97) for the Isotopes and LHP Chuck Lofgren (4-2, 4.31) for the Sounds.

Filed 05/09/2010

May 8, 2010 - Isotopes (15-13)


Isotopes Park

Nashville       000 001 100 --  2  8  0
Albuquerque     012 442 10x -- 14  15  0

WP: Tim Corcoran (2-2)
LP: Chase Wright (2-1)

HR: NSH Joe Koshansky (4) off Schlichting (6th inning)

    ALB John Lindsey (4) off Wright (3rd inning)
    ALB Jay Gibbons (6) off Murray (6th inning)

TIME: 2:52
ATT: 9,441
After suffering their worst loss of the season on Friday night, the Isotopes returned the favor to the Nashville Sounds (AAA Brewers) on Saturday evening. Tim Corcoran tossed five scoreless innings and the Isotopes got a balanced run contribution as Albuquerque defeated the Sounds 14-2 to hand Nashville their worst loss of the young season.

Albuquerque started their scoring barrage in the 2nd inning when Prentice Redman singled and scored on Russ Mitchell's double.

In the 3rd inning, Jay Gibbons singled and scored on John Lindsey's homer as the Isotopes led 3-0.

Albuquerque got on the scoreboard again the in 4th inning. With one out, Mitchell walked and advanced to second base on Chin-Lung Hu's groundout. Corcoran singled home Mitchell and Jamie Hoffmann doubled. Ramon Nivar tripled home Corcoran and Hoffmann before scoring on a wild pitch.

The Isotopes continued pouring it on in the 5th inning. Lucas May drew a one out walk, Redman singled and Mitchell walked to load the bags. Hu singled home May and with the bases still loaded, Redman scored on a passsed ball. A wild pitch plated Mitchell and Hu scored on Michael Restovich's groundout as the Isotopes led 11-0.

Nashville finally got on the scoreboard in the 6th inning on Joe Koshansky's solo homer.

The Isotopes added two more in the bottom of the 6th inning on Gibbons' solo homer and back-to-back doubles from May and Redman.

The Sounds scored their final run in the 7th inning on Adam Stern's run scoring single and Hoffmann doubled home Hu in the home half of the 7th inning for the final run of the game.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Lucas May: 1x4, 2 H, 1 BB, 1 K, .259 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
Lucas May was the only Isotope starting hitter without an RBI. . . . Tonight's crowd (9,441) exceeded last night's crowd as the largest home crowd of the season. . . . The 12 run winning margin was Albuquerque's largest of the season. . . . The Isotopes scored more runs in tonight's contest than they had in their last five games combined. . . . Albuquerque has gone 10 games without stealing a base. . . . Joe Koshansky has gone deep for Nashville in each of the first two games of the series. . . . The series continues with the first of two consecutive day games. Probables on Mother's Day are RHP James McDonald (1-1, 3.97) for the Isotopes and RHP Marco Estrada (1-1, 2.48) for the Sounds.

Filed 05/08/2010

May 7, 2010 - Isotopes (14-13)


Isotopes Park

Nashville       334 010 000 -- 11  15  0
Albuquerque     000 000 100 --  1   7  4

WP: Chris Waters (3-0)
LP: Josh Towers (2-3)

HR: NSH Joe Koshansky (3) off Towers (1st inning)
    NSH Luis Cruz (2) off Towers (3rd inning)
    NSH Trent Oeltjen (1) off Towers (3rd inning)

TIME: 2:36
ATT: 8,444
In the series opener with the Nashville Sounds (AAA Brewers) in front of the largest home crowd of the season, Josh Towers was roughed up for 10 runs in 2 2/3 innings as the Sounds cruised to a 11-1 victory over the Isotopes.

Towers gave up a three-run homer to Joe Koshansky in the 1st inning.

In the 2nd inning, Luis Cruz reached on an error and scored on an error on the next play when Sounds starter Chris Waters sacrifice bunted. Two outs later, Norris Hopper doubled home Waters. Hopper stole third before scoring on Koshansky's double as Nashville led 6-0.

Trent Oeltjen led off the 3rd inning with a solo homer. Adam Heether singled and scored on Cruz's homer. Two outs later when it appeared Towers might get out of the inning with just the three runs allowed, Adam Stern drew a walk and Hopper singled with Stern going to third base. Brent Leach replaced Towers on the mound and gave up a run-scoring single to Koshansky as the Express led 10-0.

Ray Olmedo tripled and scored on Hopper's groundout in the 5th inning for the Sounds final run.

Albuquerque avoided the shutout in the 7th inning. Prentice Redman singled, advanced to third base on Michael Restovich's double, and scored on Chin-Lung Hu's groundout.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Lucas May: 2x4, .260 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
The Isotopes are getting some players from the Dodgers in the next few days. The Dodgers activated OF Manny Ramirez and P Jeff Weaver from their disabled list and optioned OF Xavier Paul and P John Ely to Albuquerque. On Tuesday or Wednesday, the Dodgers may send IF Rafael Furcal to the Isotopes on a rehab assignment when the Isotopes are in Colorado Springs. . . . Albuquerque committed a season-worst four errors in the game. . . . The loss (10 runs) was the Isotopes' worst of the young season. . . . Timo Perez became the first position player this season to pitch. Perez pitched the 9th inning and after Luis Cruz reached on an error, Perez got a pop out and a double play to end the inning. . . . Josh Towers was the first Isotope pitcher in 2010 to allow three homers in the game and turned in Albuquerque's shortest starting pitcher outing that was not injury related (2 2/3 innings). . . . The Isotopes have lost their last four games to the Sounds in games played at Isotopes Park. . . . Nashville's Joe Koshansky was a triple short of hitting for the cycle. . . . The series continues Saturday evening. Probables are RHP Tim Corcoran (1-2, 7.20) for the Isotopes and LHP Chase Wright (2-0, 3.07) for the Sounds.

Filed 05/07/2010

May 6, 2010 - Isotopes (14-12)


Autozone Park

Albuquerque     000 010 010 1 --  3   6  2 
Memphis         000 002 000 0 --  2  12  1

WP: Luis Ayala (1-1)
LP: Rich Rundles (0-1)
SV: Jon Link (3)

HR: ALB Russ Mitchell (2) off Walters (5th inning)

    MEM Bryan Anderson (2) off Lindblom (6th inning)

TIME: 3:15
ATT: 5,301
Jamie Hoffmann was Albuquerque's hero on Thursday afternoon. In a 2-2 game with the possibly of being swept by the Memphis Redbirds (AAA Cardinals), pinch-hitter Hoffmann singled home the eventual game winning run in the 10th inning as the Isotopes defeated the Redbirds 3-2 to snap a three-game losing streak.

Russ Mitchell solo-homered in the 5th inning as Albuquerque was first on the scoreboard.

Memphis got on the scoreboard and took the lead in the 6th inning when Kevin Howard reached on an error and scored on Bryan Anderson's homer.

The Isotopes tied the game in the 8th inning. Mitchell was hit by a pitch, Chin-Lung Hu advanced him to second base on a sacrifice bunt and an out later, pinch-hitter Prentice Redman reached on an error as Mitchell scored.

In the 10th inning, JD Closser singled, advanced to second base on Mitchell's sacrifice bunt and later scored on Hoffmann's pinch-hit single.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x5, 2K, .237 AVG
Josh Lindblom: ND, 5.2 IP, 10 H, 2 R, 1 ER, 0 BB, 6 K, 1 HR, 5.40 ERA

'TOPES NOTES:
Albuquerque dropped three out of the four games in Memphis. It was the Isotopes' second series loss of the season. 18,801 attended the four games at Autozone Park for a per-game average of 4,700. . . . Dating back to last season and including the playoff games agains the Redbirds, Albuquerque snapped a six-game losing streak at Autozone Park. . . . The Isotopes are 3-0 in extra inning games and improved to 6-2 in day games in 2010. . . . Albuquerque returns home for a quick four-game weekend series. Probables in Friday evening's contest are RHP Josh Towers (2-2, 3.00) for the Isotopes and LHP Chris Waters (2-0, 4.03) for the Nashville Sounds (AAA Brewers).

Filed 05/06/2010

May 5, 2010 - Isotopes (13-12)


Autozone Park

Albuquerque     000 120 010 -- 4  13  0
Memphis         200 100 11x -- 5  10  0

WP: Josh Kinney (1-1)
LP: Justin Miller (0-1)
SV: Oneli Perez (2)

TIME:  2:52
ATT: 4,406
Ruben Gotay's 8th inning single snapped a 4-4 tie as the Memphis Redbirds (AAA Cardinals) went on to defeat the Isotopes 5-4. Albuquerque has lost three straight games for the first time this season.

Amaury Cazana singled home two runs in the 1st inning as Memphis quickly led 2-0.

Jamie Hoffmann manufactured Albuquerque's first run of the game in the 4th inning. After singling, Hoffman advanced to second on Ivan DeJesus Jr.'s groundout, took third on a wild pitch and scored on Prentice Redman's groundout.

Gotay singled home Donovan Solano in the bottom half of the inning to extend Memphis' lead back to two runs at 3-1.

The Isotopes tied the game in the 5th inning. Lucas May and Chin-Lung Hu singled and pinch-hitter Ramon Nivar bunt singled to load the bases. Hoffmann singled home May and DeJesus Jr. sacrifice flied out to drive in Hu.

Shane Robinson's sacrifice flyout brought home a run in the 7th inning to give Memphis the lead before Albuquerque re-knotted the game in the 8th inning. John Lindsey doubled, tagged up to third base on Michael Restovich's flyout, and scored on May's single.

Memphis scored the game winning run in their 8th inning at-bat. Matt Pagnozzi doubled to lead off the inning, advanced to third on pinch-hitter Kevin Howard's single and scored on Gotay's single.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x4, 1 RBI (8), 1 K, .250 AVG
Lucas May: 2x4, 1 R, 1 RBI (10), .239 AVG
Scott Elbert: ND, 4 IP, 6 H, 3 R, 3 ER, 4 BB, 2 K, 0 HR, 1 WP, 7.77 ERA

'TOPES NOTES:
Counting the 2009 playoffs in which the Redbirds and Isotopes met, Memphis has won the last six matchups and the last five games played in Memphis. . . . Albuquerque has had tough luck on the road. All seven road loses have been by 2 or fewer runs. . . . Ivan DeJesus Jr. went hitless in four at-bats to snap a 6-game hitting streak. . . . Albuquerque hopes to end the series with at least one victory on Thursday afternoon when they send RHP Josh Lindblom (1-1, 6.23) to the mound to face Memphis RHP P.J. Walters. Walters is making his 2010 debut after taking personal time away from baseball due to the death of his infant child.

Filed 05/05/2010

May 4, 2010 - Isotopes (13-11)


Autozone Park

Albuquerque     002 000 000 --  2  4  0
Memphis         021 000 00x --  3  9  1

WP: Brandon Dickson (2-1)
LP: James McDonald (1-1)
SV: Fernando Salas (3)

HR: ALB Jay Gibbons (5) off Dickson (3rd inning)

TIME: 2:22
ATT: 4,758
Albuquerque bats remained silent in Memphis. For the second straight night, Albuquerque hitting was held to just four hits and Jay Gibbons' swing of the bat did not provide enough run support as the Isotopes fell to the Memphis Redbirds (AAA Cardinals) 3-2.

Memphis was first on the scoreboard in the 2nd inning. Ruben Gotay drew a one out walk and scored on Tyler Henley's double. An out later, Redbirds starter Brandon Dickson helped his cause with a double to drive in Henley for a Memphis 2-0 lead.

In the 3rd inning with two outs, Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled and Gibbons followed with a two-run homer as Albuquerque tied the game at 2-2.

The Redbirds got their game-winning run in the bottom half of the frame when Daniel Descalso walked to lead off the frame and scored two outs later on Gotay's single.

James McDonald started for Albuquerque and gave up all 3 runs on 7 hits in 5 innings while striking out 5 Redbird batters.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x4, 1 R, .261 AVG
Lucas May: 1x4, 1 K, .214 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
The Dodgers purchased the contract of IF Nick Green on Tuesday to replace Rafael Furcal, who was placed on the Dodgers Disabled List. The Dodgers moved former-Isotope P Cory Wade from the 15-day DL to the 60-day DL to free up 40-man roster room for Green. Replacing Green on the Isotopes roster is IF Ramon Nivar, who was added to the Albuquerque roster from Extended Spring camp. Nivar had a pinch-hit groundout in the game. . . . Ivan DeJesus Jr. has not been affected by the scarcity of hits in the last two days, having singled to extend his hitting streak to 6 games. . . . Jay Gibbons has homered in two out of his last three contests. . . . Probables for Wednesday evening's contest are LHP Scott Elbert (0-1, 8.00) for the Isotopes and LHP Evan MacLane (1-3, 4.01) for the Redbirds.

Filed 05/04/2010

May 3, 2010 - Isotopes (13-10)


Autozone Park

Albuquerque     001 000 000 -- 1  4  2
Memphis         002 100 00x -- 3  7  2

WP: Adam Ottavino (2-2)
LP: Tim Corcoran (1-2)
SV: Fernando Salas (2)

HR: MEM Shane Robinson (2) off Corcoran (3rd inning) 

TIME: 2:21
ATT: 4,336
Memphis Redbirds (AAA Cardinals) pitching held Albuquerque to just four hits and one swing of a Redbirds bat provided all the runs needed to defeat the Isotopes 3-1 in the series opener in Memphis on Monday evening.

In the 3rd inning, Nick Green doubled, advanced to third base on a groundout, and scored on an error to give Albuquerque a 1-0 lead.

It did not take long for the lead to evaporate. In the bottom of the 3rd inning, Shane Robinson homered with two outs and Kevin Howard on base to give Memphis a 2-1 lead.

Memphis added their final run in the 4th inning when Allen Craig scored on a groundout.

Tim Corcoran started for the Isotopes and allowed 3 runs and 4 hits in 4 innings.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x3, 1 BB, .262 AVG
Lucas May: 0x3, 1 K, .211 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
Jamie Hoffmann went 0x4 to snap a 12 game hitting streak. . . . Counting the 2009 American Conference Championship playoffs in which the Redbirds swept the Isotopes, Albuquerque has lost their last four games to the Redbirds. . . . Brandon Boggs of the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) is the PCL Hitter of the Week. Boggs hit .417 (10x24) with 3 homers and 6 RBI during the week. . . . Joshua Collmenter of the Reno Aces (AAA Diamondbacks) is the PCL Pitcher of the Week. Collmenter, in his first Triple-A start, went 7 innings and got the win, allowing 3 hits and no runs while striking out 8. . . . Probables in Tuesday evening's contest are RHP James McDonald (1-0, 3.57) for the Isotopes and RHP Brandon Dickson (1-1, 3.20) for the Redbirds.

Filed 05/03/2010

May 2, 2010 - Isotopes (13-9)


Isotopes Park

Round Rock      001 110 010 -- 4   7  1
Albuquerque     012 002 00x -- 5   11 1

WP: Josh Towers (2-2)
LP: Andy Van Hekken (1-2)
SV: Luis Ayala (4)

HR: RR Chris Shelton (3) off Towers (4th inning)
    RR Brian Bogusevic (2) off Towers (5th inning)
    RR Oswaldo Navarro (1) off Schlichting (8th inning)

TIME: 2:21
ATT: 4,634
Josh Towers allowed 3 runs in 7 innings of work and Jamie Hoffmann two-run singled to provide the eventual game-winning runs as the Isotopes defeated the Round Rock Express (AAA Astros) 5-4 on Sunday afternoon.

Michael Restovich singled and scored on Russ Mitchell's double in the 2nd inning for the first run of the game.

Brian Bogusevic drove in Andrew Locke in the 3rd inning as the Express tied the game at 1-1 before Albuquerque untied the game in the bottom of the 3rd inning. Hoffmann singled and Prentice Redman walked. An error on a pickoff attempt advanced Hoffmann to third base and Redman took second base on a wild pitch before Restovich brought them both home with a single.

The Express tied the game at 3-3 with solo homers from Chris Shelton (4th inning) and Bogusevic (5th inning).

In the 6th inning, JD Closser and Chin-Lung Hu singled and after Towers helped his cause with a sacrifice bunt, Hoffmann delivered a two-run single as Albuquerque led 5-3.

Oswaldo Navarro solo homered for Round Rock in the 8th inning to close out the scoring in the game.


'TOPES NOTES:
The Isotopes won three out of the four games in the series. 23,030 attended at Isotopes Park for a per-game average of 5,758. . . . Jamie Hoffmann extended his hitting streak to 12 games. . . . The Dodgers #7 prospect according to Baseball America, Andrew Lambo, has been suspended 50 games effective immediately. The Office of the Commissioner of Baseball handed down the suspension after a second positive test for a drug of abuse in violation of the Minor League Drug Prevention and Treatment Program. The Commissioner’s office is never specific about which drug, but speculation is that it was marijuana considering that Lambo was caught smoking marijuana on school campus as a high schooler. Lambo was with the Class-AA Chattanooga Lookouts when the suspension was handed down. . . . Albuquerque hits the road for a quick four-game series in Memphis against the Memphis Redbirds (AAA Cardinals). Probables in the opener Monday evening are RHP Tim Corcoran (1-1, 7.36) for the Isotopes and a pitcher to be named for the Redbirds. Memphis probably can't wait to hit the field and play a game as they were rained out on both Saturday and Sunday in Nashville.

Filed 05/02/2010

May 1, 2010 - Isotopes (12-9)


Isotopes Park

Round Rock      001 040 223 -- 12  18  0
Albuquerque     031 200 001 --  7  12  0

WP: Wilton Lopez (1-1)
LP: Juan Perez (1-1)

HR: RR Chris Shelton (2) off Lindblom (3rd inning)

    ALB Michael Restovich (2) off Chacin (2nd inning)
    ALB Jay Gibbons (4) off Chacin (3rd inning)
    ALB Jamie Hoffmann (1) off Chacin (4th inning)

TIME: 3:23
ATT: 8,291
With Albuquerque up by five runs after four innings of play, Isotopes pitching gave up the next eleven runs in the game to the Round Rock Express (AAA Astros) and the Express went on to defeat the Isotopes 12-7 on Saturday evening. Albuquerque's three game winning streak ended with the loss.

John Lindsey singled and scored on Michael Restovich's homer to center field in the 2nd inning. Lucas May followed with a walk and scored on Nick Green's double as the Isotopes led 3-0.

The teams swapped solo homers in the 3rd inning - Chris Shelton for the Express and Jay Gibbons for Albuquerque.

In the 4th inning, Isotopes starter Josh Lindblom singled with one out and scored on Jamie Hoffmann's homer as Albuquerque extended their lead to 6-1.

Round Rock started their rally in the 5th inning, plating four runs on a two-run single from Oswaldo Navarro and a two-run double from Jason Castro.

The Express completed their comeback rally and took the lead in the 7th inning. Matt Kata singled home Brian Bogusevic to tie the game and Kata advanced to second base on a groundout and scored on Collin DeLome's single to give Round Rock a 7-6 lead.

Bogusevic and Kata had run-scoring doubles in the 8th inning to give the Express a 9-6 lead and Round Rock made sure the game was secure with three more runs in the 9th inning on Bogusevic's run scoring single and a two-run Shelton double.

Albuquerque plated a junk-time run in the 9th inning on back-to-back doubles from Ivan DeJesus Jr. and Gibbons.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x4, 1 R, 1 2B (8), 1 BB, .259 AVG
Lucas May: 0x3, 1 R, 1 BB, 1 K, .229 AVG
Josh Lindblom: ND, 5 IP, 10 H, 5 R, 5 ER, 1 BB, 7 K, 1 HR, 6.23 ERA

'TOPES NOTES:
The five runs was the worst blown lead of the season for Albuquerque. . . . Jamie Hoffmann's homer extended his hitting streak to 11 games, the longest by an Isotope in 2010. . . . The 3 hour, 23 minute contest was the longest 9-inning game of the season. . . . The largest home crowd of the season (8,291) came out for the first fireworks show of the season. . . . Isotopes pitching gave up their most hits in a game this season (18). . . . Probables in the series finale on Sunday afternoon are RHP Josh Towers (1-2, 3.13) for the Isotopes and LHP Andy Van Hekken (1-1, 1.66) for the Express.

Filed 05/01/2010

April 30, 2010 - Isotopes (12-8)


Isotopes Park

Round Rock      030 010 021 -- 7  14  0
Albuquerque     050 000 021 -- 8  12  0

WP: Brent Leach (3-0)
LP: Gary Majewski (1-1)

HR: RR Matt Kata (1) off Elbert (2nd inning)
    RR Jason Bourgeois (2) off Dohmann (5th inning)

TIME: 2:57
ATT: 4,681
Jamie Hoffmann stepped up to the plate in a tied game in the bottom of the 9th inning and delivered the game winning hit as the Albuquerque Isotopes defeated the Round Rock Express (AAA Astros) 8-7.

In the 2nd inning, Round Rock's Chris Shelton drew a walk to lead off the inning and scored on Matt Kata's homer. Later in the inning, Yordany Ramirez drove in Andrew Locke with a single as the Express led 3-0.

Albuquerque went doubles crazy in the 5th inning to take the lead. John Lindsey doubled and scored an out later on Lucas May's double. After Russ Mitchell grounded out, Chin-Lung Hu was intentionally walked and Isotopes starter Scott Elbert helped his own cause with a two-run double to tie the game. Hoffmann doubled home Elbert and Ivan DeJesus Jr. doubled home Hoffmann to give Albuquerque a 5-3 lead.

Jason Bourgeois solo homered in the 5th inning and Oswaldo Navarro singled home a run and Bourgeois' fielder's choice brought in another run in the 8th inning to give the Express the lead at 6-5.

In the home half of the 8th inning, Michael Restovich walked with two outs and scored on May's double to tie the game and Mitchell singled home May to give Albuquerque the lead.

Round Rock tied the game in the top of the 9th inning when Jason Castro doubled home Edwin Maysonet and in the bottom of the 9th inning, Nick Green tripled and scored on Hoffmann's single to give Albuquerque the win.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x4, 1 2B (7), 1 RBI (7), .260 AVG
Lucas May: 2x4, 2 R, 2 2B (3), 2 RBI (9), 1 K, .250 AVG
Scott Elbert: ND, 4 IP, 6 H, 3 R, 3 ER, 3 BB, 6 K, 1 HR, 8.00 ERA

'TOPES NOTES:
Scott Elbert was activated off the Temporary Inactive List to make the start for Albuquerque. Elbert returned from being with his wife for the birth of their second child. . . . Albuquerque has won a season-best three games in a row and are a season-best four games above the .500 mark. Unfortunately the Isotopes have not gained any ground in the division -- still 2 games back -- because the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) have been just as hot as Albuquerque the last few days. . . . Albuquerque has two walkoff wins in 2010. . . . Jamie Hoffmann had three hits in the game and extended his hitting streak to 10 games. . . . April Isotope figures: 12-8 April record - 6-4 at home and 6-4 on the road; .295 team batting average and 4.57 team pitching ERA; 122 runs scored; 21 homers, and 14 stolen bases. . . . Express catcher Kevin Cash and manager Marc Bombard were both ejected in the 8th inning arguing that Isotopes runner Michael Restovich should have been out instead of being called safe at home plate. . . . The Isotopes and Express continue their series on Saturday night and the Isotopes have their first post-game fireworks show of the season. Probables are RHP Josh Lindblom (1-1, 5.57) for the Isotopes and LHP Gustavo Chacin (1-1, 1.74) for the E-train.

Filed 04/30/2010

April 29, 2010 - Isotopes (11-8)


Isotopes Park

Round Rock      000 000 010 -- 1  4  2
Albuquerque     101 100 00x -- 3  6  1

WP: James McDonald (1-0)
LP: Josh Banks (1-3)
SV: Luis Ayala (3)

HR: ALB Nick Green (2) off Banks (4th inning)

TIME: 2:22
ATT: 5,424
James McDonald, fresh off the Disabled List, tossed five innings of hitless, scoreless ball in the Isotopes' best pitching effort of the young season as Albuquerque's defeated the Round Rock Express (AAA Astros) 3-1 at windy Isotopes Park on Thursday evening.

In the 1st inning, Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled, advanced to second base on a throwing error on the play, took third base on Jay Gibbons' groundout, and scored on John Lindsey's single.

In the 3rd inning, DeJesus Jr. doubled and scored on Gibbons' single and in the 5th inning, Nick Green solo-homered to center field as Albuquerque led 3-0.

Round Rock scored their only run in the 8th inning. Drew Meyer singled with one out, advanced to second base on pinch-hitter Andrew Locke's groundout, and scored on Jason Bourgeois' single.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x4, 2 R, 1 2B (6), .247 AVG
Lucas May: 0x3, .214 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
James McDonald had his five innings of no hits allowed, then gave way to Tim Corcoran who added an inning of hitless relief and Juan Perez had 2/3 of an inning of hitless relief before giving up Round Rock's first hit. . . . Albuquerque is a season-best 3 games above the .500 mark. . . . Luis Ayala picked up his team-leading 3rd save in the game. . . . Probables in Friday evening's contest are LHP Scott Elbert (0-1, 8.36) for the Isotopes and LHP Polin Trinidad (0-0, 2.45) for the E-train.

Filed 04/29/2010

April 27, 2010 - Isotopes (10-8)


Rosenblatt Stadium

Albuquerque     001 000 000 2 --  3  4  2
Omaha           010 000 000 1 --  2  9  1

WP: Travis Schlichting (1-0)
LP: Blake Wood (1-1)
SV: Luis Ayala (2)

TIME: 2:45
ATT: 15,701
On Tuesday afternoon in Omaha, the Isotopes plated two runs without the benefit of a hit in the 10th inning and held off an Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) rally in the bottom half of the frame to take a 3-2 victory.

In the 2nd inning, Buck Coats sacrifice flied out to drive in David Lough as the Royals took a 1-0 lead.

The Isotopes tied the game in the 3rd inning. Chin-Lung Hu walked with one out, scampered to third base on Timo Perez's single, and scored on Ivan DeJesus Jr.'s sacrifice flyout.

The game remained tied all the way to the 10th inning. Lucas May led off the inning with a walk and advanced to second base on Jamie Hoffmann's sacrifice bunt. Nick Green walked and both executed a double steal. A throwing error on the double steal allowed May to score and Green to advance to third base. Hu grounded out to bring home Green as Albuquerque led 3-1.

Omaha did not go quietly in the bottom of the 10th inning. With one out, Irving Falu and Marc Maddox drew walks and Scott Thorman singled home Falu with Maddox advancing to third base. Kila Kaaihue then popped out and Lough grounded out to end the game with the game-tying run stranded on third base.

Isotopes starter Josh Towers allowed a run (not earned) and 6 hits in 6 innings while earning the no-decision.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x3, 1 RBI (6), .232 AVG
Lucas May: 0x3, 1 R, 1 BB, 1 K, .240 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
The Dodgers purchased the contract of P John Ely on Tuesday and he will be making his Dodgers debut on Wednesday against the New York Mets. Ely was 2-1 with a 3.00 ERA and allowed 16 hits and struck out 12 in 18 innings over three starts. The Dodgers optioned P Jon Link back to Albuquerque to free up active roster room for Ely and transferred C Brad Ausmus to the 60-day disabled list to free up 40-man roster room for Ely. . . . Jamie Hoffmann hit safely in the game to extend his hitting streak to 9 games, the most by an Isotope in 2010. . . . Thanks mostly to nearly 10,000 K-12 students, the Isotopes played in front of their largest crowd of the season (15,701). The Isotopes won the series by taking two victories and 23,053 attended the rain-shortened three-game series in Omaha for a per-game average of 7,684. . . . The Isotopes went 4-2 on their roadtrip with one game postponed due to weather in each city - New Orleans and Omaha. . . . Albuquerque is a perfect 2-0 in extra inning contests in 2010. . . . The four hits was the least amount of hits for the Isotopes in a game in 2010. . . . The Isotopes have Wednesday off before coming home for a quick four-game homestand against the Round Rock Express (AAA Astros). The Isotopes will get two-fifths of their starting rotation back during the homestand. Probables on Thursday evening are RHP James McDonald (0-0, 4.97) coming off the DL for the Isotopes and a pitcher to-be-announced for the Express.

Filed 04/27/2010

Isotopes, O-Royals Postponed

Monday evening's contest between the Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) and Isotopes in Omaha was postponed due to inclement weather. The game will be made up on July 9th in Omaha as part of a doubleheader. It was the second postponement for the Isotopes on their current roadtrip, with the other one having come in New Orleans. The weather also affected the PCL in a big way on Monday with half of the league schedule wiped out due to rain. Weather permitting, the Isotopes conclude their series and roadtrip on Tuesday morning. Probables are RHP Josh Towers (1-2, 4.24) for the Isotopes and RHP Anthony Lerew (1-2, 3.86) for the Lil' Kings.
Filed 04/26/2010

April 25, 2010 - Isotopes (9-8)


Rosenblatt Stadium

Albuquerque     000 000 003 -- 3  7  0
Omaha           000 211 00x -- 4  8  0

WP: Bryan Bullington (1-0)
LP: Josh Lindblom (1-1)
SV: Victor Marte (1)

HR: ALB Timo Perez (1) off Bullington (9th inning)

    OMA Kila Kaaihue (5) off Lindblom (4th inning)

TIME: 1:54
ATT: 2,663
Timo Perez started an Isotope 9th inning rally with a homer, but it was too little too late as the Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) defeated the Isotopes 4-3 on Sunday afternoon in Omaha.

Scott Thorman tripled and scored on Kila Kaaihue's two run homer in the 4th inning as Omaha snapped the scoreless contest.

Marc Maddox doubled home Irving Falu in the 5th inning and Jose Duarte singled home Ed Lucas in the 6th inning as Omaha extended the lead to 4-0.

Royals starter Bryan Bullington had a 4-hit shutout going into the 9th inning. Timo Perez ended the shutout with one swing of the bat to lead off the frame. After two outs, John Lindsey was hit by a pitch and Russ Mitchell doubled before Bullington was removed from the game. Jamie Hoffmann doubled home Lindsey and Mitchell as the Isotopes pulled to a run down before Michael Restovich grounded out to end the threat and the game.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x4, 1 K, .227 AVG
Josh Lindblom: L (1-1), 7 IP, 8 H, 4 R, 4 ER, 2 BB, 5 K, 1 HR, 5.57 ERA

'TOPES NOTES:
The Dodgers recalled reliever Jon Link from Albuquerque to take Vicente Padilla's Dodgers roster spot. The Dodgers are still in a pickle because they have not decided who they are going to bring up from the minor leagues to make Padilla's start on Tuesday. In a paper move, P Seth Etherton was transferred off the Isotopes roster and placed on the Rookie-level Ogden Raptors roster and no corresponding roster move that would explain the reason behind this transaction has been revealed yet. With the Etherton move, the Isotopes active roster stands at 22 players out of a 24-player maximum. . . . The one hour, 54 minute contest was Albuquerque's shortest game of the season. . . . Jamie Hoffmann's 9th inning double extended his hitting streak to 8 games, tying him for the longest Isotope hitting streak of the season (John Lindsey). . . . The series continues Monday evening. Probables are RHP John Ely (1-2, 4.24) for the Isotopes and RHP Federico Castaneda (No Record) for the Royals. Castaneda will be making his Triple-A debut.

Filed 04/25/2010

April 24, 2010 - Isotopes (9-7)


Rosenblatt Stadium

Albuquerque     000 002 206 --  10  14  1
Omaha           110 000 000 --   2   7  2

WP: Juan Perez (1-0)
LP: Philip Humber (1-2)

HR: ALB John Lindsey (3) off Humber (6th inning)

    OMA Scott Thorman (1) off Etherton (2nd inning)

TIME: 2:41
ATT: 4,689
John Lindsey homered and drove in three runs and the Isotopes used a 9th inning six-run rally to turn the game into a 10-2 rout of the Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) in Omaha on Saturday evening.

Kila Kaaihue singled home Irving Falu in the 1st inning and Scott Thorman solo homered in the 2nd inning as Omaha led 2-0.

The Isotopes wiped away the defecit with one swing of the bat in the 6th inning as Lindsey homered with Ivan DeJesus Jr. on base to tie the game at 2-2.

Albuquerque took the lead in the 7th inning. Russ Mitchell singled and Michael Restovich reached on an error. Chin-Lung Hu laid down a sacrifice bunt to advance both runners into scoring position before Jamie Hoffmann lifted a sacrifice flyout to drive in Mitchell. DeJesus Jr. doubled home Restovich as the 'Topes led 4-2.

Mitchell doubled and pinch-hitter Timo Perez reached on an error. Hu reached on a fielder's choice with Mitchell scoring on the play. Hoffmann laid down a sacrifice bunt to advance both runners a base and DeJesus Jr. singled home Perez. Jay Gibbons singled home Hu and DeJesus Jr. scored on Lindsey's single. Prentice Redman singled to laod the bases and Lucas May singled to drive in Gibbons. Lindsey scored on Mitchell's groundout and Perez flied out to end the inning.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 3x4, 2 R, 1 2B (5), 2 RBI (5), 1 BB, .242 AVG
Lucas May: 2x5, 1 RBI (7), 1 K, .273 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
There were some Isotopes transactions on Saturday. P Seth Etherton and OF Timo Perez both joined the Isotopes from the Dodgers Extended Spring camp. P Scott Elbert was placed on the Temporary Inactive List as he left the team to be at the birth of his second child. The Dodgers placed P Vicente Padilla on the major league disabled list, but no Isotopes move has been made yet. It is believed P Jon Link will be recalled, but the Dodgers may wait another day and recall Elbert to take Padilla's turn in the Dodgers rotation on Tuesday. Finally, Dodgers pitching coach Ken Howell had a diabetes-related medical procedure done so Isotopes pitching coach Jim Slaton joined the Dodgers bench. Temporarily taking over as Isotopes pitching coach until Slaton returns is Glenn Dishman. . . Etherton made the start for the Isotopes in the game and you can add Etherton to the short list of names to a trivia answer about which Isotopes have played for the club as both a Marlins-affiliated and Dodgers-affiliated team. . . . Jamie Hoffmann extended his hitting streak to 7 games. . . . The Isotopes are 4-0 on travel days in 2010. . . . Probables on Sunday afternoon are RHP Josh Lindblom (1-0, 5.79) for the Isotopes and RHP Bryan Bullington (0-0, 1.38) for the Lil' Kings.

Filed 04/24/2010

Isotopes and Zephyrs Postponed by Rain

The series finale between the Isotopes and New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) was postponed by rain on Friday evening. The game will be made up as part of a doubleheader on August 2 when the Isotopes return to Zephyr Field. The rainout was Albuquerque's first one of the season. The Isotopes won the rain-shortened series 2-1, it was Albuquerque's second series win of the 2010 campaign, and 9,909 attended the three games at Zephyr Field. Albuquerque concludes their roadtrip with four games against the Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) at Rosenblatt Stadium. 2010 marks the Royals final season at Rosenblatt Stadium, the famous home of the College World Series. Albuquerque has yet to name a probable for game 1 of the series, while Omaha is expected to counter with RHP Philip Humber (1-1, 6.75). There is a chance for showers all four days the Isotopes are in Omaha so more weather related delays or postponements might occur. The Isotopes may have had the day off, but Xavier Paul did not. The Dodgers placed OF Manny Ramirez on the Disabled List and recalled Paul from the Isotopes. Paul was batting .386 with 3 homers and 9 RBI at the time of his recall.
Filed 04/23/2010

April 22, 2010 - Isotopes (8-7)


Zephyr Field

Albuquerque     010 002 000 -- 3   8  0
New Orleans     001 220 00x -- 5  10  0

WP: Jorge Sosa (1-0)
LP: Josh Towers (1-2)
SV: Scott Strickland (3)

HR: NRL Hector Luna (3) off Towers (5th inning)

TIME: 2:24
ATT: 4,884
Former-Isotope Hector Luna's homer in the 5th inning proved to be the eventual game-winning runs as the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) defeated the Isotopes 5-3 on Thursday evening in Metarie, Louisiana. The loss snapped a two game Albuquerque win streak.

In the 2nd inning, Prentice Redman singled, went to second base on Jay Gibbons' single, advanced to third base on Russ Mitchell's groundout, and scored on Lucas May's single as the Isotopes took a 1-0 lead.

Luna singled home a run in the 3rd inning to tie the game and the Zephyrs took the lead in the 4th inning. Zephyrs starter Jorge Sosa doubled home former-Isotope Brett Hayes before scoring on Emilio Bonifacio's triple.

Luna's two-run homer in the 5th inning provided very important runs to the Zephyrs as New Orleans led 5-1.

Albuquerque's last scoring happened in the 6th inning. Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled and scored on Redman's double. Redman took third base on Gibbons' single and scored on Mitchell's groundout.

Isotopes starter Josh Towers allowed 5 runs and 9 hits in 5 innings and earned the losing decision.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x4, 1 R, .207 AVG
Xavier Paul: 0x4, 2 K, .361 AVG
Lucas May: 1x3, 1 RBI (6), 1 BB, .235 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
The defeat snapped an Isotopes four-game winning streak against the Zephyrs. . . . Former Isotope Adam Bostick (2006 'Topes) was suspended 50 games by the Office of the Commissioner of Baseball on Thursday because Bostick tested positive for a drug of abuse in violation of the Minor League Drug Prevention and Treatment Program. Bostick started the season on the Disabled List of the Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) and his suspension starts immediately. . . . The series concludes Friday evening. Probables are RHP Tim Corcoran (1-1, 9.00) for the Isotopes and RHP Brian Lawrence (0-2, 6.82) for the Zephyrs.

Filed 04/22/2010

April 21, 2010 - Isotopes (8-6)


Zephyr Field

Albuquerque     020 103 000 -- 6  14  1
New Orleans     010 000 000 -- 1   7  1

WP: John Ely (2-1)
LP: Hunter Jones (0-1)

HR: ALB Lucas May (2) off Jones (6th inning)

TIME: 2:41
ATT: 2,907
John Ely turned in a quality start (allowed a run and 7 hits in 6 1/3 innings) and Lucas May homered and drove in four total runs as the Isotopes defeated the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) 6-1 in the second game of the series at Zephyr Field on Wednesday evening.

In the 2nd inning, John Lindsey doubled and scored on Prentice Redman's double. Russ Mitchell sacrifice bunted Redman to third base and Lucas May doubled home Redman.

Scott Cousins tripled and scored on former-Isotope Brett Hayes' single in the 2nd inning for Ely's only blemish on the scoreboard.

May walked with two outs and scored on Nick Green's double in the 4th inning to give Albuquerque a 3-1 lead, and in the 6th inning, Redman and Mitchell led off the frame with singles and scored on May's three-run homer to close out the scoring.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x5, 1 2B (4), 1 K, .204 AVG
Xavier Paul: 3x5, 1 2B (4), .386 AVG
Lucas May: 2x3, 2 R, 1 2B (4), 1 HR (2), 4 RBI (5), 1 BB, .214 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
P Hyang-Nam Choi was transferred to Extended Spring to make roster room for P Jon Link, who was optioned from the Dodgers on Tuesday. . . . Jay Gibbons went hitless in one pinch-hit at-bat to snap a seven game hitting streak. Gibbons failed to extend his consecutive game homer streak to three games. . . . Lucas May has homered in back to back games. . . . The series continues on Thursday evening. RHP Josh Towers (1-1, 2.25) is expected to pitch for Albuquerque against a Zephyrs probable to-be-named.

Filed 04/21/2010

April 20, 2010 - Isotopes (7-6)


Zephyr Field

Albuquerque     101 100 000 -- 3  7  0
New Orleans     110 000 000 -- 2  7  2

WP: Josh Lindblom (1-0)
LP: Matt DeSalvo (0-2)
SV: Luis Ayala (1)

TIME: 3:01
ATT: 2,118
In the series opener in Metarie, Louisiana, the Isotopes took advantage of some New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) 4th inning charity and eventually won 3-2 over the Zephyrs.

In the 1st inning, Jamie Hoffmann led off the game with a single, advanced to second base on Xavier Paul's single, John Lindsey drew a walk to load the bags and Russ Mitchell walked to bring Hoffmann home.

Former-Isotope Hector Luna brought home Emilio Bonifacio with a sacrifice flyout in the home half of the 1st innign to tie the game at 1-1 and Zephyrs starter Matt DeSalvo singled home a run in the 2nd inning as the Zephyrs led 2-1.

Paul walked with one out, stole second base and scored on Michael Restovich's single in the 3rd inning as the Isotopes tied the game at 2-2 and the 'Topes took the lead in the 4th inning thanks to some sloppy fielding by the Zephyrs. JD Closser reached on an error and took second base on Chin-Lung Hu's groundout. Isotopes starter Josh Lindblom walked and Hoffmann singled to load the bases before Ivan DeJesus Jr. reached on an error as Closser scored.

The game remained scoreless the rest of the way and newly appointed Isotopes closer Luis Ayala shut down the Zephyrs in order in the bottom of the 9th inning for his first save.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x5, 1 2B (3), 1 RBI (3), .204 AVG
Xavier Paul: 2x4, 1 R, 1 BB, 1 K, 1 SB (3), .365 AVG
Josh Lindblom: W (1-0), 6 IP, 7 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 0 BB, 7 K, 0 HR, 5.79 ERA

'TOPES NOTES:
Luis Ayala's role as Isotopes closer may be short-lived as the Dodgers optioned P Jon Link to Albuquerque. Link made his Dodgers debut Tuesday night against the Reds and tossed two scoreless innings, but the Dodgers needed to free up roster room to activate P Ronald Belisario by sending Link back to Albuquerque. . . . The series continues on Wednesday evening with RHP John Ely (1-1, 3.86) expected to take the mound for Albuquerque against Zephyr LHP Hunter Jones (0-0, 0.90).

Filed 04/20/2010

April 19, 2010 - Isotopes (6-6)


Isotopes Park

Omaha           102 050 600 --  14  17  0
Albuquerque     010 220 001 --   6  15  0

WP: Philip Humber (1-1)
LP: Scott Elbert (0-1)

HR: OMA Kila Kaaihue (4) off Elbert (3rd inning)

    ALB Lucas May (1) off Humber (2nd inning)
    ALB Jay Gibbons (3) off Humber (4th inning)
    ALB Xavier Paul (3) off Herges (9th inning)

TIME: 2:54
ATT: 4,017
The Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) roughed up Scott Elbert for 8 runs and 9 hits in 4 innings en route to a 14-6 victory over the Isotopes in the series finale on Monday afternoon at The Lab.

Wilson Betemit lifted a bases-loaded sacrifice flyout in the 1st inning as Omaha was first on the scoreboard.

Lucas May solo-homered for Albuquerque in the 2nd inning to knot the game at 1-1 before the Royals regained the lead in the 3rd inning on Kila Kaaihue's two-run homer.

Albuquerque retied the game at 3-3 in the 4th inning when John Lindsey singled and scored on Jay Gibbons' homer.

Mike Aviles tripled home two runs and scored on Kaaihue's single as part of five run 5th inning as Omaha took back the lead and added some breathing room.

The Isotopes plated two runs in their half of the 5th inning. Jamie Hoffmann singled, advanced to second base on Nick Green's groundout, and scored on Xavier Paul's single. Paul took second base on Lindsey's single, Gibbons drew a walk to load the bags and Prentice Redman grounded into a fielder's choice with Paul scoring on the play.

Omaha went doubles-crazy in the 7th inning, tallying four of their six runs in the frame with two-baggers, as they built their lead to 14-5.

Xavier Paul solo-homered in the 9th inning to close out the scoring in the game.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Xavier Paul: 3x5, 2 R, 1 HR (3), 2 RBI (9), 1 K, .354 AVG
Lucas May: 1x4, 1 R, 1 HR (1) 1 RBI (1), 1 K, .091 AVG
Scott Elbert: L, (0-1), 4 IP, 9 H, 8 R, 8 ER, 3 BB, 2 K, 1 HR, 8.36 ERA

'TOPES NOTES:
John Lindsey earned the Isotopes' first PCL Weekly Award on Monday, having been named the PCL Hitter of the Week. Lindsey hit .538 (21x39) for the week with 2 homers and 13 RBI and scored 13 runs. The PCL Pitcher of the Week also had an Isotopes connection as Derek Holland of the Oklahoma City Redhawks is the winner. Holland pitched opening night against the Isotopes and for the award week, won both of his starts and allowed 1 earned run in 19.2 innings pitched for an ERA of 0.46. . . . It is official -- James McDonald will be missing his next start in the Isotopes rotation since he was placed on the 7-day disabled list with a split fingernail on his pitching hand. P Scott Dohmann and P Hyang-Nam Choi were both added to the Isotopes roster from Extended Spring camp. . . . The Isotopes lost their first series of the season as the Royals took three out of the four games. 22,543 attended the series for a per-game average of 5,636. For the eight-game season opening homestand, 45,177 attended. . . . Lindsey turned in his second 4-hit performance of the season. . . . Lucas May's first (and so far only) Triple-A hit was a solo homer. . . . Jay Gibbons has homered in back to back games. . . . The loss was Albuquerque's 500th franchise regular season loss. In regular season contests all-time, Albuquerque is 515-500. . . . The Isotopes open up an eight-game roadtrip on Tuesday evening with the first four in Metarie, Lousiana against the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) Probables in the opener are RHP Josh Lindblom (0-0, 7.88) for the Isotopes and RHP Ryan Tucker (0-0, 1.59) for the Zephyrs.

Filed 04/19/2010

April 18, 2010 - Isotopes (6-5)


Isotopes Park

Omaha           300 200 000 --  5  10  0
Albuquerque     403 030 01x -- 11  13  1

WP: Brent Leach (2-0)
LP: Gaby Hernandez (1-1)


HR: ALB Prentice Redman (3) off Hernandez (1st inning)
    ALB Prentice Redman (4) off Hernandez (3rd inning)
    ALB Prentice Redman (5) off Hernandez (5th inning)
    ALB Jay Gibbons (2) off Hernandez (3rd inning)

TIME: 2:38
ATT: 6,438
Prentice Redman had a monster day, tying an Isotopes franchise record with three homers in the game and Redman and Jay Gibbons combined to drive in 10 of Albuquerque's 11 runs as the Isotopes got back in the win column with a 11-5 victory over the Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) on Sunday afternoon at The Lab.

Kila Kaaihue, David Lough and Jordan Parraz each singled home a run in the 1st inning as the Royals led 3-0.

Albuquerque took the lead in their half of the 1st inning. Russ Mitchell singled with one out, Xavier Paul walked, and John Lindsey was hit by a pitch to load the bases. Gibbons lifted a sacrifice flyout to bring home Mitchell and Redman followed with a three-run homer.

The Isotopes extended their lead to 7-3 in the 3rd inning. With two outs, Lindsey singled and Gibbons two-run homered. Prentice followed with a solo homer.

The Royals scored two runs in the 4th inning to trim the defecit to two runs at 7-5 before the Isotopes added more runs to the scoreboard in the 5th inning. Paul and Lindsey singled and Gibbons singled home Paul. Lindsey was tagged out at third base on an outfield assist on the play before Redman two-run homered to give Albuquerque a 10-5 lead.

Paul singled and scored on Lindsey's double in the 7th inning for the final run of the game.

The Isotopes tagged former-Isotope Gaby Hernandez for 10 runs and 10 hits in 5 innings.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x4, 1 K, .205 AVG
Xavier Paul: 2x3, 3 R, 1 BB, .326 AVG
Lucas May: 0x4, 2 K, .000 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
The Dodgers on Sunday designed P Russ Ortiz for assignment and recalled P Jon Link from the Isotopes. IF Justin Sellers was activated from the Isotopes disabled list and then sent to Class-A Inland Empire. No replacement player on the Isotopes roster for Link has been named yet. . . . James McDonald only tossed the first inning for the Isotopes before leaving the game with a split fingernail. . . . The Isotopes had more hits in today's contest (13) than they did combined in the first two games of the series (12). . . . Jay Gibbons and Prentice Redman were the first Isotopes duo to homer back-to-back in 2010. . . . Redman's 6 RBI and 12 total bases was the most by an Isotope this season. Each stat fell two shy of tying franchise records. . . . Chin-Lung Hu went hitless in four at-bats to snap a 7-game hitting streak. . . . The series concludes with a Businessman's Special promotion just after noon on Monday. Probables are LHP Scott Elbert (0-0, 4.50) for the Isotopes and RHP Philip Humber (0-1, 5.73) for the Royals.

Filed 04/18/2010

April 17, 2010 - Isotopes (5-5)


Isotopes Park

Omaha           100 000 100 --  2  9  1
Albuquerque     000 000 000 --  0  6  2

WP: Anthony Lerew (1-1)
LP: Josh Towers (1-1)
SV: Blake Wood (2)

TIME: 2:12
ATT: 6,604
The Isotopes slumbering bats continued on Saturday. Albuquerque only came up with 6 hits all game and was handed their first shutout of the season in a 2-0 loss to the Omaha Royals (AAA Royals).

In the 1st inning, Irving Falu singled, advanced to second base on Marc Maddox's groundout, took third on a passed ball and scored on Mike Aviles' single.

The Royals scored their final run in the 7th inning when Buck Coats doubled, advanced to third base on Cody Clark's single and scored on an throwing error on the play.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x4, 1 K, .225 AVG
Xavier Paul: 0x4, 1 K, .300 AVG
Lucas May: 0x3, 1 K, .000 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
Despite the Isotopes offense finding hits hard to come by the last couple of games, Chin-Lung Hu has continued his hitting streak, now with hits in 7 straight games. . . . Albuquerque finds themselves in third place in the division, two games behind division leading Oklahoma City. The number of games back and the placement within the division are the worst the Isotopes have found themselves so far in the young 2010 campaign. . . . After having stolen a base in each of the first eight games of the season, Albuquerque has gone without a steal in the last two games. . . . Probables in Sunday afternoon's contest are RHP James McDonald (0-0, 3.09) for the Isotopes and former-Isotope RHP Gaby Hernandez (1-0, 2.45) for the Lil' Kings.

Filed 04/17/2010

April 16, 2010 - Isotopes (5-4)


Isotopes Park

Omaha           101 000 330 --  8 15  1
Albuquerque     100 000 000 --  1  6  1

WP: Carlos Rosa (1-0)
LP: John Ely (1-1)

HR: OMA Alex Gordon (1) off Ely (1st inning)

TIME: 2:47
ATT: 5,484
After pounding out 68 hits in the home opening four-game series, the Isotopes bats went into a slumber on a rainy Friday evening at Isotopes Park, only coming up with 6 hits and coming close to being shut out as the Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) defeated the Isotopes 8-1 in the series opener.

Alex Gordon, with the O-Royals on a rehab assignment, solo homered in the 1st inning.

In the bottom of the 1st inning, Nick Green doubled with one out, advanced to third base on Xavier Paul's single, and scored on an error as the Isotopes plated their only run of the game.

Kila Kaaihue doubled off the right field wall to drive in Gordon in the 3rd inning, and the Royals added three runs in the 7th and 8th innings. Wilson Betemit grounded into a double play as a run scored, a wild pitch scored another run and Scott Thorman singled home a run in the 7th inning. Kaaihue doubled home a run, scored on Betemit's triple, and David Lough singled home Betemit in the 8th inning.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x4, .250 AVG
Xavier Paul: 1x3, 1 BB, 1 K, .333 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
C Keyter Collado was transferred from Albuquerque to Class-Rookie Ogden on Friday and C Lucas May, the Dodgers' highest ranked catching prospect (#17 in the Baseball America Dodgers prospect list), was transferred to the Isotopes from Class-AA Chattanooga. May hit .167 (4x24) in 7 games with the Lookouts, scoring twice and driving in a run. . . . John Lindsey went hitless in four at-bats to snap an eight-game hitting streak. . . . The one run scored and the six hits were both season lows for Albuquerque. . . . Probables in Saturday evening's contest are RHP Josh Towers (1-0, 3.00) for the Isotopes and RHP Anthony Lerew (0-1, 9.00) for the Royals.

Filed 04/16/2010

April 15, 2010 - Isotopes (5-3)


Isotopes Park

New Orleans     020 120 000 --  5   9  2
Albuquerque     010 204 24x -- 13  21  2

WP: Brent Leach (1-0)
LP: Taylor Tankersley (1-1)

HR: 

     NRL Scott Cousins (1) off Lindblom (5th inning)

     ALB Xavier Paul (2) off Lawrence (4th inning)
     ALB John Lindsey (2) off Tankersley (6th inning)

TIME: 3:11
ATT: 5,479
John Lindsey and Russ Mitchell drove in three runs each and the Isotopes plated 10 runs over their final three at-bats en route to a 13-5 victory over the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) on Thursday afternoon in the series finale.

Zephyrs starter Brian Lawrence and Bryan Peterson each singled home a run in the 2nd inning as the Zephyrs took a 2-0 lead.

Jay Gibbons doubled and scored on Mitchell's double in the bottom of the 2nd inning as the Isotopes cut the defecit in half.

Vinny Rottino tripled and scored on Ryan Kosterman's triple in the 4th inning as New Orleans took a 3-1 lead.

The Isotopes tied things up in their half of the 4th inning. Xavier Paul solo homered and Lindsey doubled and scored on Prentice Redman's double.

The Zephyrs regained the lead in the 5th inning on Scott Cousins' solo homer and Rottino's run scoring triple that plated Brad Davis.

Albuquerque owned the scoreboard for the rest of the game. In the 6th inning, Lindsey led off the inning with a homer. Gibbons doubled, advanced to third on a wild pitch, and scored on Redman's triple as Albuquerque tied the game. Redman scored on Mitchell's single. Mitchell took second on Keyter Collado's single, advanced to third base on Isotope reliever Brent Leach's sacrifice bunt, and was out at home on Chin-Lung Hu's fielder's choice. An error on a pickoff attempt brought Collado home as Albuquerque led 7-5.

In the 7th inning, Lindsey doubled and scored on Gibbons' single. Redman singled Gibbons to second base and Collado's single drove Gibbons home.

The Isotopes tallied four more times in the 8th inning. Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled with one out, stole second base and advanced to third base on Paul's single. Lindsey doubled home DeJesus Jr. and Paul before scoring on an error. Gibbons singled, moved to third base on Redman's double and scored on Mitchell's sacrifice flyout.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x5, 1 R, 1 K, 1 SB (2), .281 AVG
Xavier Paul: 2x5, 2 R, 1 HR (2), 1 RBI (7), 1 K, .333 AVG
Josh Lindblom: ND, 5 IP, 9 H, 5 R, 4 ER, 1 BB, 5 K, 1 HR, 7.88 ERA

'TOPES NOTES:
The Isotopes won their first series of the season, winning three out of the four games against the Zephyrs. 22,634 attended for a per-game average of 5,659. . . . Albuquerque tied franchise records with eight doubles and 11 extra base hits in the game. . . . Jay Gibbons has had a four-hit game in back to back contests. . . . John Lindsey and Gibbons tied an Isotope franchise record with four runs scored in the game. . . . Lindsey has hit safely in all 8 Isotopes games in 2010 and tied an Isotopes record with 3 doubles in a game. . . . The Isotopes have swiped a bag in every game so far in 2010. . . . Keyter Collado, who had never played above rookie-level Ogden in his professional career, made his Triple-A debut at catcher today and went 2x5 with a run scored and an RBI. . . . The Isotopes open up a four game series against the Omaha Royals (AAA Royals) on Friday evening. Probables are RHP John Ely (1-0, 4.76) for the Isotopes and RHP Brad Thompson (0-1, 11.12) for the Royals.

Filed 04/15/2010

April 14, 2010 - Isotopes (4-3)


Isotopes Park

New Orleans     001 130 001 --  6  7  0
Albuquerque     101 000 401 --  7 15  0

WP: Jon Link (1-1)
LP: Jay Buente (0-1)

HR: 
     NRL Hector Luna (1) off Elbert (3rd inning)

     ALB Jay Gibbons (1) off Sinkbeil (7th inning)
     ALB Nick Green (1) off VandenHurk (1st inning)

TIME: 2:56
ATT: 5,924
Jay Gibbons had a great game for Albuquerque. Gibbons' hits gave the Isotopes the lead twice late in the game, including the bottom of the 9th inning when it mattered most, and Gibbons ended up 4x5 with a homer and 5 RBI as the Isotopes defeated the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) 7-6 at The Lab on Wednesday evening. The Isotopes moved into a three way tie for first place in the PCL American Conference Southern Division with the victory.


The Isotopes and Zephyrs each got on the scoreboard early with solo homers. Nick Green homered for Albuquerque in the 1st inning while former-Isotope Hector Luna homered for New Orleans in the 3rd inning.

The Isotopes regained the lead in their half of the 3rd inning. Green doubled and two outs later, scored on Gibbons' double.

Former-Isotope Brett Hayes knocked in a run in the 4th inning with a sacrifice flyout to knot the game at 2-2.

New Orleans added three runs in the 5th inning to take a 5-2 lead, highlighted by Luna's two-run double.

Gibbons was Albuquerque's hero in the 7th inning to erase the defecit. Pinch-hitter Michael Restovich singled and advanced to third on Chin-Lung Hu's single before being erased at home plate on Green's fielder's choice. Xavier Paul singled home Hu and Gibbons three-run homered to give Albuquerque a 6-5 lead.

For the second straight contest, Isotopes closer Jon Link entered the game in the 9th inning looking for the save and ended up blowing the save. Hayes doubled, advanced to third on Alejandro Machado's sacrifice bunt, and scored on pinch-hitter Logan Morrison's double.

Unlike yesterday's game, the Isotopes were able to overcome Link's blown save. Hu singled, Paul walked an out later, and after John Lindsey struck out for the second out, Gibbons delivered a run scoring single to bring Hu home with the game-winning run.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Xavier Paul: 1x4, 1 R, 1 RBI (6), 1 BB, 1 K, .321 AVG
Scott Elbert: ND, 4 IP, 5 H, 5 R, 5 ER, 3 BB, 4 K, 1 HR, 4.50 ERA, Hit Batter

'TOPES NOTES:
On 50 cent hot dog night, 24,171 hot dogs were sold for a per-fan average of 4.08. The total mark was almost 13,500 hot dogs short of the record. . . . The victory was Albuquerque's first walk-off win of the season and second victory when the game-winning run was scored in their last turn at-bat. . . . Hector Luna's third inning homer snapped Scott Elbert's 10 consecutive scoreless inning streak dating back to the 2009 season. . . . The series concludes with a school day matinee on Thursday afternoon. Probables are RHP Josh Lindblom (0-0, 9.00) for the Isotopes and RHP Brian Lawrence (0-1, 3.60) for the Zephyrs.

Filed 04/14/2010

April 13, 2010 - Isotopes (3-3)


Isotopes Park

New Orleans     010 000 322 --  8  14  0
Albuquerque     000 002 140 --  7  16  0

WP: Scott Strickland (2-0)
LP: Jon Link (0-1)

HR: 

     NRL Donnie Murphy (1) off McDonald (7th inning)
     NRL Logan Morrison (2) off Perez (7th inning)
     NRL Bryan Peterson (1) off Miller (8th inning)

TIME: 3:18
ATT: 3,571
The Isotopes rallied for four runs in the 8th inning to take the lead, but the lead would be short lived as New Orleans Zephyrs' (AAA Marlins) Ryan Klosterman drove home a pair of runs in the top of the 9th inning to give the Zephyrs a 8-7 victory.

In the 2nd inning, Scott Cousins walked, advanced to second base on Jason Lane's single and scored on Danny Richar's single as the Zephyrs led 1-0.

The Zephyrs hung onto that lead until the 6th inning. In the Isotopes half of the inning, Jay Gibbons singled and later scored on Russ Mitchell's single. With Hoffmann on third base, Chin-Lung Hu laid down a sacrifice bunt as Hoffmann raced home to give Albuquerque a 2-1 lead.

New Orleans powered their way to regain the lead in the 7th inning - Donnie Murphy two run homered and Logan Morrison followed with a solo homer as the Zephyrs led 4-2.

In the home half of the 7th inning, John Lindsey singled, advanced to third base on Ivan DeJesus Jr.'s double, and scored on Nick Green's single as the Isotopes edged to a run down at 4-3.

Bryan Peterson two-run homered in the 8th inning to extend the Zephyr lead to three runs at 6-3.

Albuquerque rallied to take the lead in the 8th inning. Mitchell singled and pinch-hitter Prentice Redman struck out. Mitchell advanced to second base on a wild pitch, took third base on J.D. Closser's single, and scored on Lindsey's single. DeJesus Jr. singled to load the bases and Green singled home Closser. Jay Gibbons lifted a sacrifice flyout to bring home Lindsey to tie the game at 6-6 and Michael Restovich singled home DeJesus Jr. to give Albuquerque the lead.

In the top of the 9th inning, the Zephyrs loaded the bases with two outs before Klosterman singled to drive in the game-winning runs.

James McDonald started for Albuquerque and struck out 8 in 6 2/3 innings while allowing 7 hits and 3 runs.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x4, 1 R, 1 2B (2), 1 BB, .259 AVG
Xavier Paul: 0x1, pinch-hitter, .333 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
The loss snapped an Isotope nine game winning streak against the Zephyrs in games played at Isotopes Park. The last time, until tonight, the Zephyrs won in Albuquerque was August 24, 2008. . . . The Isotopes are 0-3 in one run contests and have let opponents score the game winning run in their last at-bats in two contests. . . . John Lindsey has hit safely in all six Isotope games. . . . The series continues Wednesday evening with 50-cent Hot Dog night. LHP Scott Elbert (0-0, 0.00) is expected to take the mound for Albuquerque against former-Isotope and current Zephyr RHP Rick VandenHurk (1-0, 0.00).

Filed 04/13/2010

April 12, 2010 - Isotopes (3-2)


Isotopes Park

New Orleans     310 001 210 --  8  11  3
Albuquerque     401 610 02x -- 14  16  2

WP: Josh Towers (1-0)
LP: Matt DeSalvo (0-1)

HR: NRL Logan Morrison (1) off Leach (7th inning)

     ALB Xavier Paul (1) off Schroder (5th inning)

TIME: 3:14
ATT: 7,660
Xavier Paul turned in Albuquerque's first four-hit game of the season, and Paul, Prentice Redman and Russ Mitchell each drove in 3 runs as Albuquerque opened their 2010 Home Schedule with a 14-8 victory over the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins) at windy Isotopes Park. The Isotopes moved into a first place tie with the Zephyrs with the victory.

New Orleans staked themselves to a 3-0 lead after half an inning, scoring two runs on an error and a run on sacrifice flyout.

Albuquerque erupted to take a 4-3 lead in their first at-bat. Chin-Lung Hu singled, stole second base, and advanced to third base on a wild pitch. Ivan DeJesus Jr. drew a walk and Paul singled home Hu. Redman's single brought home DeJesus Jr. and Mitchell tripled home Paul and Redman.

Logan Morrison tripled home a run in the 2nd inning to tie the game at 4-4.

In the Isotopes' 3rd inning, Paul reached on an error, advanced to third base on John Lindsey's single, and scored on Redman's groundout.

The Isotopes exploded for 6 runs in the 4th inning to put the game away. Isotopes starter Josh Towers doubled and went to third base on Hu's groundout. DeJesus Jr. singled home Towers. After a pitching change, DeJesus stole second, advanced to third base on a wild pitch, and scored on Paul's double. Paul stole third base, Lindsey walked, and Redman singled home Paul. Jamie Hoffmann's single loaded the bases and Mitchell lifted a sacrifice flyout to drive in Lindsey. J.D. Closser singled home Redman and Towers singled home Hoffmann. When the frame was finished, Albuquerque sent 11 batters to the plate and led 11-4.

Paul solo homered in the 5th inning as the Isotopes built their lead to 12-4.

The Zephyrs scored a run in the 6th inning, plated two runs in the 7th inning, and scored once more in the 8th inning to trim the defecit to four runs at 12-8.

The Isotopes added their final two runs in the bottom of the 8th inning. Mitchell walked with one out, Closser singled and Nick Green walked to load the bags. Hu reached on an error as Mitchell and Closser scored.

Towers allowed 5 runs (2 earned) and 7 hits in 6 innings.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x5, 2 R, 1 RBI (2), 1 BB, 1 K, SB (1), .217 AVG
Xavier Paul: 4x5, 4 R, 1 2B (3), 1 HR (1), 3 RBI (5), SB (2), .348 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
The Isotopes made their annual payment to the City of Albuquerque for the lease on Isotopes Park as well as to pay the city for surcharges collected on tickets, souvenirs, and concessions. Despite the fact the Isotopes had a record attendance mark in 2009, the Isotopes paid their lowest amount ever to the city, $1,903,435.71. The only under-$2 million payments made to the city occurred for the 2008 and 2009 seasons and both seasons had record attendance marks. In the seven seasons of payments, $13,966.064 has been paid to the city and that is about half of the $25 million the city took out in bonds and loans to renovate Albuquerque Sports Stadium into Isotopes Park. . . . The start of the game was delayed 19 minutes due to pre-game Home Opener ceremonies. . . . The crowd of 7,660 was the lowest home opener crowd in franchise history. . . . Albuquerque is 6-2 in home openers in franchise history. . . . The Isotopes have won 9 straight games against the Zephyrs at Isotopes Park. . . . Xavier Paul was a triple short of hitting for the cycle. Paul also tied an Isotopes franchise record with 4 runs scored in the game. . . . Paul and John Lindsey have hit safely in all five Isotopes games played in 2010. . . . The series continues Tuesday evening with RHP James McDonald (0-0 1.80) expected to take the mound for the Isotopes against Zephyrs RHP Ryan Tucker (0-0, 0.00).

Filed 04/12/2010

April 11, 2010 - Isotopes (2-2)


Bricktown Ballpark

Albuquerque     102 040 101 -- 9  9  0
Oklahoma City   200 100 002 -- 5  9  3

WP: John Ely (1-0)
LP: Geoff Geary (0-2)
SV: Jon Link (2)

HR: ALB Prentice Redman (2) off Geary (5th inning)
    ALB John Lindsey (1) off Geary (7th inning)

TIME: 2:58
ATT: 4,498 
The Isotopes scored four runs in the 5th inning to snap a 3-3 tie and put the game away and John Lindsey continued swinging a hot stick, homering and driving in four runs as Albuquerque earned a series split with a 9-5 victory over the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) on Sunday afternoon.

In the 1st inning, Chin-Lung Hu reached on an error to leadoff the game, stole second, advanced to third base on Nick Green's sacrifice bunt, and scored on Xavier Paul's groundout as the Isotopes led 1-0.

Hernan Iribarren and Justin Smoak singled home runs in the home half of the 1st inning to give the Redhawks a 2-1 lead.

Albuquerque regained the lead in the 3rd inning. Hu singled and scored on Green's double. An out later, Lindsey singled home Green.

The Redhawks tied the game at 3-3 in the 4th inning when Smoak drew a leadoff walk and scored on Mitch Moreland's triple.

Albuquerque took a commanding 7-3 lead in the 5th inning. Green singled to lead off the inning, Paul doubled and Lindsey's groundout brought Green home. Jay Gibbons doubled to drive in Paul and Prentice Redman followed with a two-run homer.

Lindsey's solo homer in the 7th inning extended the lead to 8-3 and the Isotopes added their final tally in the 9th inning. Paul reached on an error with two outs and scored on Lindsey's single.

Esteban German doubled home a run and Matt Brown singled home a run for the Redhawks in the bottom of the 9th inning to close out the scoring.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 0x4, .222 AVG
Xavier Paul: 1x5, 2 R, 1 2B (2), 1 RBI (2), 1 K, .222 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
25,176 attended the season opening series at Bricktown Ballpark with a per-game average of 6,294. . . . J.D. Closser went 0x4, snapping an eight-game hitting streak dating back to 2009. . . . Albuquerque plays their 2010 Home Opener on Monday evening against the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins). Probables are RHP Josh Towers (No Record) for the Isotopes and RHP Matt DeSalvo (No Record) for the Zephyrs.

Filed 04/11/2010

April 10, 2010 - Isotopes (1-2)


Bricktown Ballpark

Albuquerque     210 011 010 -- 6  10  0
Oklahoma City   111 010 30x -- 7  13  0

WP: Elizardo Ramirez (1-0)
LP: Tim Corcoran (1-1)
SV: Pedro Strop (1)

HR: ALB Russ Mitchell (1) off Kirkman (2nd inning)

    OKC Chad Tracy (1) off Corcoran (5th inning)
    OKC Chad Tracy (2) off Corcoran (7th inning)
    OKC Justin Smoak (2) off Perez (7th inning)

TIME: 2:41
ATT: 7,062
Chad Tracy and Justin Smoak back-to-back homered in the 7th inning as the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) turned a 5-4 defecit into a 7-5 lead on their way to a 7-6 victory over the Isotopes. Albuquerque has dropped two straight games.

In the 1st inning, Ivan DeJesus Jr. doubled and scored on Xavier Paul's double and John Lindsey followed with a RBI double to bring Paul home to give Albuquerque a 2-0 lead.

A wild pitch brought home a run for the Redhawks in the bottom of the 1st inning and the Isotopes got that run back in the 2nd inning on Russ Mitchell's solo homer.

In the home half of the second inning, Mitch Moreland ground-rule doubled, advanced to third base on Andy Jenkins' single, and scored on Emerson Frostad's single.

The Redhawks tied the game at 3-3 in the 3rd inning when Tracy singled home a run.

Albuquerque regained the lead in the 5th inning when Chin-Lung Hu singled, stole second base and scored on DeJesus Jr.'s single. The Redhawks re-tied the game in their half of the 5th inning on a Tracy solo homer.

Lindsey singled and scored on Mitchell's double in the 6th inning to give Albuquerque a 5-4 lead.

In the 7th inning, Oklahoma City's Matt Brown singled with two outs and scored on Tracy's second homer of the night as the Redhawks took the lead and after a pitching change, Smoak solo homered for an insurance run.

Albuquerque mounted their final rally of the game in the 8th inning. With one out, Paul walked, stole second base and scored on Lindsey's double. Prentice Redman entered as a pinch runner for Lindsey and advanced to third base on a wild pitch. Michael Restovich struck out swinging and Jamie Hoffmann lined out to first base to end the rally as the Isotopes were unable to get the game-tying run home.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 2x4, 1 R, 1 2B (1), 1 RBI (1), .286 AVG
Xavier Paul: 1x3, 2 R, 1 2B (1), 1 RBI (1), 1 BB, 1 K, 1 SB (1), .231 AVG
Josh Lindblom: ND, 3 IP, 8 H, 3 R, 3 ER, 2 BB, 1 K, 0 HR, WP, 9.00 ERA

'TOPES NOTES:
The Dodgers placed C Brad Ausmus on the disabled list and recalled C A.J. Ellis from Albuquerque. Replacing Ellis on the Isotopes roster is C Keyter Collado who was transferred from rookie-level Ogden. The transaction is Albuquerque's first of the regular season. . . . Albuquerque leadoff hitters have been ice cold in the three games of the series. In the opener, Jamie Hoffmann went 1x6 with 3 strikeouts. In game 2, Nick Green was 0x5 with 3 strikeouts and Green went 0x5 with 2 strikeouts in tonight's game. Combined, that is 1x16 (.0625) batting average with 8 strikeouts. . . . John Lindsey has been red-hot to start the season for Albuquerque. In 3 games, Lindsey is 7x13 (.538) with 3 runs scored, 4 RBI and 3 doubles. . . . The series concludes Sunday afternoon with RHP John Ely (No Record) expected to pitch for Albuquerque against Redhawks RHP Guillermo Moscoso (No Record). A win would give Albuquerque a split of the season-opening series.

Filed 04/08/2010

April 9, 2010 - Isotopes (1-1)


Bricktown Ballpark

Albuquerque     000 100 020 -- 3  7  0
Oklahoma City   000 000 301 -- 4  7  1

WP: Jailen Peguero (1-0)
LP: Luis Ayala (0-1)

TIME: 2:41
ATT: 6,583
Isotopes starter Scott Elbert had a great outing, tossing 6 innings of scoreless ball while striking out 10, but his effort went to waste as the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) plated the game-winning run on a wild pitch in the bottom of the 9th inning to take a 4-3 victory over Albuquerque.

In the 4th inning, John Lindsey singled and later scored on Jamie Hoffmann's single as the Isotopes led 1-0.

Oklahoma rallied to take the lead in the 7th inning. Andy Jenkins tripled and scored on a wild pitch to tie the game with no outs. An out later, Esteban German singled, Hernan Iribarren doubled, and after Matt Brown was intentionally walked to load the bases, Chad Tracy singled home German and Iribarren as the Redhawks led 3-1.

Ivan DeJesus Jr. singled with one out, Xavier Paul reached on an error and Lindsey drove them both home with a double as the Isotopes tied the game at 3-3.

In the bottom of the 9th inning, Isotopes reliever Luis Ayala entered the game and gave up a double to German and intentionally walked Iribarren. Brown laid down a sacrifice bunt to advance both runners into scoring position before Ayala uncorked a wild pitch that ended the game when German scored.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 1x4, 1 R, .200 AVG
Xavier Paul: 1x4, 1 R, .200 AVG
Scott Elbert: ND, 6 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 5 BB, 10 K, 0 HR, 0.00 ERA

'TOPES NOTES:
Probables in Saturday's game are RHP Josh Lindblom (No Record) for the Isotopes and LHP Michael Kirkman (No Record) for the Redhawks.

Filed 04/09/2010

April 8, 2010 - ALB 6, OKC 3, 13 innings


Bricktown Ballpark

Albuquerque     000 010 002 000 3 -- 6   9  2
Oklahoma City   000 102 000 000 0 -- 3  13  2 

WP: Tim Corcoran (1-0)
LP: Geoff Geary (0-1)
SV: Jon Link (1)

HR: ALB Michael Restovich (1) off Holland (5th inning)
    ALB Prentice Redman (1) off Strop (9th inning)

    OKC Justin Smoak (1) off McDonald (4th inning)

TIME: 4:11
ATT: 7,033
The Albuquerque Isotopes began a marathon season with a marathon game in their season opener in Oklahoma City against the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers). The Isotopes scored the go-ahead runs on an error in the 13th inning to take a 6-3 victory.

Rangers prospect Justin Smoak solo homered in the 4th inning to give the Redhawks a 1-0 lead.

Michael Restovich solo homered for Albuquerque in the 5th inning to tie the game at 1-1 before the Redhawks regained the lead in the 6th inning. Smoak walked to leadoff the frame and advanced to second base on Isotope reliever Travis Schlichting's balk. Brandon Boggs singled Smoak to third base and Max Ramirez sacifice flied Smoak home. Boggs advanced to second base on an error on a pickoff attempt and was awarded third base on interference from Isotopes first baseman John Lindsey before scoring on Gregorio Petit's single.

The Redhawks held their 3-1 lead into the 9th inning. Lindsey singled and scored on Prentice Redman's two-run homer as the Isotopes tied the game at 3-3 and the game eventually went into extra innings.

In the 13th inning with two outs, Lindsey singled, Redman walked and pinch-runner Nick Green came into the game for Redman. Restovich walked to load the bags and Ivan DeJesus Jr. reached on an error as Green and Redman scored with the go-ahead runs. A.J. Ellis walked to reload the bases and a wild pitch brought Restovich home.

James McDonald went 5 innings, allowing a run and 7 hits and struck out 3.

DODGERS PROSPECTS IN TODAY'S GAME:
Ivan DeJesus, Jr.: 6 AB, 0 R, 1 H, 0 RBI, 0 BB, 0 K, .167 AVG
Xavier Paul: 6 AB, 0 R, 1 H, 0 RBI, 0 BB, 2 K, .167 AVG

'TOPES NOTES:
The Isotopes announced an extension of their radio deal with Citadel Communications for another 5 seasons, making the new pact expire after the last pitch of the 2015 season. . . . The Isotopes also announced that the UNM Lobos mens basketball team will be honored before the Home Opener on April 12th and that coach Steve Alford will throw the ceremonial first pitch. . . . Albuquerque is 7-1 in season openers and 4-1 in season openers on the road. . . . The Isotopes have a four game winning streak in games played at Bricktown Ballpark. . . . The Pacific Coast League announced their 2010 Hall of Fame inductees. They are Bobby Bragan, Larry Jansen and Gene Lillard. . . . Probables in Friday evening's contest are LHP Scott Elbert for the Isotopes and RHP Brandon McCarthy for the Redhawks.

Filed 04/08/2010

Isotopes Unofficial Website Relaunch
/ News update

With the opening day of the 2010 Isotopes campaign coming up, this website has been relaunched with info updated for 2010. Rosters and transactions have been updated and summaries will begin with the opening game on Thursday. The Isotopes travel to Oklahoma City to play the Oklahoma City Redhawks (AAA Rangers) and season opening probables are James McDonald for the Isotopes and Derek Holland for the Redhawks. The home opener for Albuquerque is April 12th against the New Orleans Zephyrs (AAA Marlins). The biggest change for an Isotope fan in 2010 is a new parking fee that was instituted with the Isotopes and the University of New Mexico splitting the $5 fee on an equal basis. The proceeds are supposedly going towards beautifying and improving the parking lot areas around Isotopes Park and the UNM facilities. The parking fee can be avoided if there are 4 or more people in the vehicle or a vehicle displays disabled person parking placards/ license plates.. The Isotopes become the 14th team out of the 16 team PCL to charge for parking, with parking fees around the league ranging from $2-10 per vehicle. The Isotopes created a 2010 parking map. It can be found here. Ticket prices also went up a buck for advance and day-of-game box seats and reserve seats. Club seats and berm prices stayed the same. The Seattle Mariners and Colorado Rockies played a pair of exhibition games last weekend. In Friday evening's game, the Mariners and Rockies played 3 hours and 47 minutes, put 36 hits on the board and didn't solve a thing with the game ending in a 11-11 tie after 9 innings. On Saturday afternoon, the Rockies defeated the Mariners 10-4. The game featured 5 homers and 26 hits. 21,132 fans showed up for both games. In news about notable former Isotopes in other organizations, IF Joe Dillon was signed by the Rays. IF Jason Stokes was signed by the Tigers and later released. IF Doug Mientkiewicz and P Eric Gagne were signed by the Dodgers and didn't make the club and were granted their release so they won't be in an Isotopes suit. IF Blake DeWitt and P Charlie Haegar both made the Dodgers 25-man roster. Matt Treanor was signed by the Brewers then traded to the Rangers and could appear for the Redhawks in the season opening series with the Isotopes. Val Pascucci was signed and later waived by the Mets, Tagg Bozied was signed by the Phillies, Joe Nelson was signed by the Red Sox, and Will Ohman was signed by the Orioles. The Blue Jays inked Chris Aguila from the Japanese league and the Dodgers waived Jason Repko. Repko was later signed by the Twins and sent to AAA. Paul Hoover signed with the Phillies and was later sent to AAA.
Filed 04/07/2010

2010 Field Staff; Roster Shakeup

The 2010 Isotopes field staff was revealed on Monday and returning for the second consecutive season are Manager Tim Wallach, Hitting Coach John Moses, and Pitching Coach Jim Slaton. It has been a very busy month-plus for the Isotopes roster. In mid-November, several players became free agents. The free agents: Pitchers: Giancarlo Alvarado Marlon Arias Henry Bonilla Hyang-Nam Choi Tim Corcoran Nick DeBarr JD Durbin Francisco Felix Dwayne Pollok Scott Strickland Erick Threets Catchers: Danny Ardoin J.D. Closser Mike Rose Infielders: Sergio Garcia Brett Harper Hector Luna Luis Maza Outfidlers: Dee Brown Mitch Jones On the Dodgers offseason roster are pitchers Brent Leach, Travis Schlichting, Eric Stults, Cory Wade, infielders Blake DeWitt and Chin-Lung Hu, and outfielder Xavier Paul. IF Tony Abreu was shipped to the Diamondbacks to complete the Jon Garland trade from late in the 2009 season and OF Jamie Hoffmann was grabbed by the Nationals in the Rule 5 draft during the baseball winter meetings and then traded to the New York Yankees. When the shakeup was completed, there are four players currently sitting on the Isotopes off-season roster: pitchers Alberto Bastardo and Josh Lindblom, catcher Ryan Arp and outfielder Scott Van Slyke. P Giancarlo Alvarado signed with a Japanese team, P Scott Strickland and IF Hector Luna signed with the Marlins organization, and OF Mitch Jones signed with the Braves organization. The Dodgers signed several to minor league deals with an invite to spring training (2009 level in parenthesis): P Josh Towers (AAA) P Justin Miller (MLB) - former Isotope during Marlins affiliation OF Prentice Redman (AAA) IF Doug Mientiewicz (Isotopes rehab/MLB) IF Angel Berroa (MLB) IF John Lindsay (AAA) P Francisco Felix (Isotopes) P Juan Perez (AAA) P Luis Ayala (MLB) P Tim Corcoran was resigned by the Dodgers. The Dodgers traded Juan Pierre to the White Sox and it has been reported that one of the players the Dodgers acquired in the trade, P John Ely, might begin the 2010 season in Albuquerque. Other notable activity this offseason: - Kenley Jansen, who was a catcher for Albuquerque for part of the 2009 season, was sent to Class-A Inland Empire late in the 2009 season and converted into a pitcher. Jansen was added to the Dodgers 40-man roster this offseason. - Former Isotopes manager Dean Treanor has made it back to the AAA ranks. Treanor was recently named Pitching Coach of the Pittsburgh Pirates' AAA squad in Indianapolis for 2010 after having served as pitching coach for the Pirates AA level club in 2009. - Dallas McPherson signed a contract with the Oakland Athletics organization - Ryne Sandberg is coming to the PCL as the new manager of the Iowa Cubs (AAA Cubs) in 2010. He will manage the Cubs for eight contests at Isotopes Park in 2010 and sixteen games overall against the Isotopes during the 2010 campaign.
Filed 12/21/2009

Isotopes Park to Host 2010 MLB Exhibitions

The Isotopes announced Wednesday that they are bringing MLB Spring Exhibition action to Albuquerque for 2010. Although they were not able to bring the Dodgers to town, they did bring the next best thing -- a regional MLB team. The Seattle Mariners and Colorado Rockies will play a pair of exhibitions in Albuquerque. Friday April 2nd's game will be at 5:05 PM and Saturday April 3rd's game will be at 12:05 PM. Box, Reserved and Berm tickets will be $25 for one game or $45 for both games and Club Level tickets will be $35 for one game or $65 for both games. Isotope Season Ticket and Mini-plan holders are able to buy tickets now. The general public can start buying tickets on February 20th.
Filed 11/19/2009