PCL1 Albuquerque Isotopes

Isotopes Unveil Opening Day Roster

Published on April 2, 2008 under Pacific Coast League (PCL1)
Albuquerque Isotopes News Release


The Albuquerque Isotopes have released their 2008 Opening Day roster, with outfielders John Gall, Eric Reed, and starting pitcher Daniel Barone headlining the list of players returning to the 'Topes from last year.

Both Gall and Reed enjoyed excellent seasons in Albuquerque in 2007, with both appearing in games for the parent Florida Marlins throughout the campaign. Gall finished the season batting .300 with 13 home runs and 46 RBI while Reed collected 12 triples and stole 30 bases while batting .285 for the 'Topes. Barone, who started the season in Double-A Carolina, was a sensation in his first Triple-A stint, going 7-0 in 10 starts for Albuquerque before making his Major League debut with the Fish in August. Also returning from 2007 are infielder Andrew Beattie and catcher John Baker.

Among the new faces Isotopes fans will enjoy watching in 2008 are a bevy of young Marlins prospects knocking on the door of the Big Leagues. Athletic outfielder Jai Miller will be patrolling center field at Isotopes Park, while young catcher Brett Hayes could also see significant time behind the dish. Starting pitcher Gaby Hernandez, who is considered among the organization's top pitching prospects, will also start the year in an Isotopes uniform.

Also seeing their first action in Albuquerque are free agent signees Dallas McPherson, a slugging infielder who was a top prospect for the Angels and saw time in 117 Major League games before being derailed by a back injury. Scrappy infielder Chris Barnwell, a mainstay at the top of the Nashville Sounds' lineup a year ago, will also be toiling for the Isotopes this year along with Major League veteran Alexis Gomez, who was a member of the 2006 Detroit Tigers World Series squad.

Albuquerque will open the season tomorrow, April 3 in Omaha with right-hander Bobby Keppel getting the start against O-Royals right-handed prospect Luke Hochevar in a 6:05 PM tilt Mountain Time. After an eight-game tour of the Midwest, the Isotopes return home on April 11 to face the Oklahoma RedHawks, Triple-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers. In addition to the usual Opening Night pomp and circumstance, the 'Topes will be giving away Isotopes Hats to the first 3,000 fans courtesy of Sandia Resort and Casino. Tickets can be purchased at Isotopes Park or any Ticketmaster outlet, www.ticketmaster.com, or Ticketmaster by phone 505-883-7800. For more information on individual game tickets, season tickets, or mini-plans, visit www.albuquerquebaseball.com or call 505-924-2255.

Check out the Albuquerque Isotopes Statistics

Share: Facebook | Twitter/X | LinkedIn | Reddit | Email



Pacific Coast League Stories from April 2, 2008


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

OurSports Central