PCL1 Albuquerque Isotopes

'Topes Climb Standings with 8-7 Win

Published on August 17, 2007 under Pacific Coast League (PCL1)
Albuquerque Isotopes News Release


Brett Carroll mashed a two-run home run and recorded two outfield assists to lead the Albuquerque Isotopes (63-62) to a thrilling 8-7 victory over the Round Rock Express (55-70) before more than 10,000 fans in the series finale Friday night at Isotopes Park.

Carroll's homer was one of two hit in the second inning and one of three hit in the game for Albuquerque as the Isotopes used the long ball to win their third-straight game and take the series three games to four. Joe Borchard hit a solo homer to lead off the second before Carroll's blast two batters later. In the next inning, Andrew Beattie provided the decisive blow with a two-out grand slam that pushed a small one-run Albuquerque lead to a seemingly comfortable 7-2 advantage.

The Express would fire back, though, slowly chipping away at the Isotope lead. Round Rock scored a single run in the fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh and ninth innings to pull to within one. But from there, Isotopes closer Roy Corcoran buckled down and ended the game-a pivotal victory for Albuquerque's playoff hopes.

The Albuquerque win, coupled with a New Orleans defeat, brings the Isotopes to within 1.5 games of the division lead with just 17 games remaining on the schedule.

The victory went to Isotopes starter Nic Ungs (5-4), who lasted six innings. Ungs allowed five runs on eight hits, walking two and punching out three. In relief, Mauro Zarate allowed a run on one hit in the seventh, Harvey Garcia tossed a scoreless eighth and Corcoran bent, but didn't break, allowing a run in the ninth before striking out Tim Raines, Jr. to end the ballgame.

Round Rock starter Brandon Backe (1-2) was pinned with the defeat. Backe allowed seven runs on seven hits over 4.1 innings of work. The righty walked four and struck out five in a rehabilitation start for the Houston Astros. Out of the Express bullpen, Philip Barzilla allowed just a run on four hits over 3.2 frames.

Beattie's grand slam not only helped push the ‘Topes to victory, but also allowed one fan to walk away with a motorcycle, as part of the organization's Motorsport Third Inning Grand Slam Contest. With Beattie's homer, Catherin Offutt won a 2007 Suzuki M109 after her name was drawn prior to the inning. This marks the third-straight season that a fan has won a vehicle at Isotopes Park as part of the Third Inning Grand Slam promotion.

The Isotopes now hit the road for four games against the Omaha Royals, Triple-A Affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. In Saturday's opener, Albuquerque southpaw Chris George (5-10, 5.78) matches up with O-Royal righty Matt Wright (9-3, 3.69). First pitch is set for 5:05 PM MT at Johnny Rosenblatt Stadium.

Following the series with Omaha, the Isotopes return home on Wednesday, August 22 for a five-game set against the Memphis Redbirds. Fireworks, a Breast Cancer Awareness Weekend Pink Jersey Auction, several giveaways and more are to come. 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.

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Pacific Coast League Stories from August 17, 2007


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.

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