PCL1 Albuquerque Isotopes

Ninth inning collaspe leads to 13-8 loss

August 17, 2003 - Pacific Coast League (PCL1)
Albuquerque Isotopes News Release


What looked like a sure win turned sore for Albuquerque in a 13-8 loss to Omaha on Sunday night at Isotopes Park in front of 7,583 fans.

Albuquerque scored five runs in the bottom of the eighth inning, giving the Isotopes an 8-4 lead entering the ninth inning. With two outs, two on, and closer Blaine Neal on the mound, first baseman Lenny Harris misplayed a ground ball that would have ended the game, but instead lead to two runs. Omaha took advantage scoring seven more runs on four more hits, including a grand slam by Gookie David off Oswaldo Mairena, who replaced Neal (3-2).

The ‘Topes had taken their first lead of the game in the bottom of the eighth, as Robert Stratton hit his league-leading 31st homer of the season, a two-run shot for a 5-4 lead. The homer was Stratton's first since July 23 vs. New Orleans. Albuquerque would add three more runs on three hits, including a two-run single by Chad Allen for the 8-4 lead.

The teams exchanged three-run innings in the first, with Omaha putting up three on four hits off starter Aaron Small. The ‘Topes responded with a three-run homer by Abraham Nunez, his 11th. Small recorded a no-decision, allowing four runs on eight hits over seven innings.

The Isotopes' (67-62) loss, combined with a win by Colorado Springs cut the ‘Topes Central Division lead to one game with 15 remaining. The ‘Topes and Royals play the finale of a four-game series tomorrow night, beginning at 7:11 PM. Scott Sanders will make the start.

Check out the Albuquerque Isotopes Statistics



Pacific Coast League Stories from August 17, 2003


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