PCL1 Albuquerque Isotopes

Albuquerque eliminated from playoff contention

Published on September 2, 2007 under Pacific Coast League (PCL1)
Albuquerque Isotopes News Release


Joe Borchard fell just short of a game-winning home run, flying out to deep right-center field with two outs in the bottom of the last inning, as the Oklahoma RedHawks (71-70) hung on for a 3-2 victory Sunday over the Albuquerque Isotopes (71-70) at Isotopes Park. The Isotopes are now eliminated from playoff contention, sitting two games back of New Orleans with just one day remaining on the regular season schedule.

With a one-run deficit and their playoff future up against the wall, the 'Topes made things interesting in the bottom of the seventh and final inning. Robert Andino drew a lead-off walk, putting the tying run on base and bringing the go-ahead run to the plate. Reggie Abercrombie failed to move the runner over with a pop out on a bunt attempt, and John Gall flew out harmlessly to left. With two outs and down to his last strike, Borchard smashed a Franklyn German offering to deep right-center field. The ball would hang up, though, and RedHawk right fielder Kevin Mahar reeled it in for the final out.

Earlier in the day, Oklahoma cruised to a 20-6 win over Albuquerque in the resumption of Saturday's suspended contest. Those two Albuquerque defeats, joined with a 10-2 New Orleans victory over Round Rock, give the Zephyrs the American Southern Division crown.

Saturday's game was halted after four innings due to thunderstorm-induced electrical failure at Isotopes Park. By that time, though, the RedHawks had run out to a comfortable 14-4 advantage. That lead would only swell on Sunday in the resumption of the suspended contest.

In the resumed game, Brett Carroll blasted a three-run homer in the second inning, then mashed a solo shot in the fourth. Carroll would double to lead-off the ninth inning as well, capping off a 3-for-4 day at the dish that included three runs scored and four driven in.

The win went to Oklahoma reliever Ezequiel Astacio (3-5), who allowed a run on four hits over three innings. Nic Ungs (5-5) took the loss for the 'Topes, surrendering eight runs-five earned-on eight hits through 1.2 innings pitched.

In the nightcap, Francisco Cruceta (3-0) earned the win, tossing 2.1 innings of relief. The loss went to Albuquerque starter Chris George (7-11), who surrendered three runs on seven hits over five innings.

The Isotopes and RedHawks round out the series and the 2007 regular season on Monday afternoon at The Lab. Ricky Nolasco (0-2, 15.09) gets the nod for Albuquerque. He'll square-off with Oklahoma lefty Derek Lee (1-3, 3.51). First pitch is set for 1:35 PM.

On Monday afternoon, Rockin Ray & The Amazing Skyy Dogs will make an appearance at Isotopes Park. Tickets can be purchased at Isotopes Park or any Ticketmaster outlet, www.ticketmaster.com, or Ticketmaster by phone 505-883-7800. For more information, visit www.albuquerquebaseball.com or call 505-924-2255.

Check out the Albuquerque Isotopes Statistics

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Pacific Coast League Stories from September 2, 2007


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