'Topes let lead slip away, fall 9-5 to Omaha
Published on April 16, 2007 under Pacific Coast League (PCL1)
Albuquerque Isotopes News Release
Chad Hermansen drove in the first three runs of the ballgame, but an early 3-0 lead slipped away as the Omaha Royals (5-7) rebounded for a 9-5 win over the Albuquerque Isotopes (5-6) in the series finale Monday at Johnny Rosenblatt Stadium.
Albuquerque posted runs in the first and third to jump out to an early lead. A five run Omaha fourth put the O-Royals in the driver's seat, though, and despite an Isotopes answer in the sixth, Omaha was able to hang on for the series victory.
'Topes starter Jeff Fulchino faced control issues throughout his entire outing, walking seven batters. The big right-hander's day came to an end after 3.2 innings of work in which he allowed four runs on three hits with two strikeouts. Out of the bullpen, Nic Ungs (0-1) surrendered three runs-two earned-in 1.1 innings and took the loss. Ben Julianel faced one batter in the sixth before giving way to Roy Corcoran, who was hit for two runs on five hits over 1.2 frames. Nate Field tossed a spotless eighth inning on just five pitches, but the damage had already been done.
Omaha reliever Matt Wright (1-2) earned the win out of the pen. Wright worked four innings, scattering two runs on four hits with six Ks.
Albuquerque didn't waste any time jumping out to an early advantage, using a two-run double off the bat of Hermansen to take a quick 2-0 lead after one inning. The 'Topes pushed another across in the third, taking a 3-0 lead thanks to a Hermansen sacrifice fly that chased home John Gall.
Down three runs in the fourth, Omaha finally broke through, and did so in a big way. With two outs in the inning, the O-Royals proceeded to plate five runs on the strength of four walks and three base hits. Fulchino faced the first six hitters of the inning-leaving with the bases loaded and one run in-before Ungs came on to see four more runners cross the plate.
Facing its first deficit of the afternoon, Albuquerque struck back in the sixth to tie the score. With two on and two out, Josh Labandeira provided a clutch two-out double that brought home John Baker and Reggie Abercrombie, tying the ballgame at 5-5. That deadlock wouldn't last long, though, as Omaha stung Albuquerque for three runs in the home half of the sixth. Justin Huber hit a two-run double and Matt Tupman had a run-scoring single to give the O-Royals a lead they would not relinquish.
The Isotopes now head to Iowa to begin a four-game set with the I-Cubs. In the opener, Wes Obermueller (0-1, 3.18) takes the ball for Albuquerque, while Iowa will counter with Ryan O'Malley (0-1, 2.08). First pitch at Principal Park is slated for 6:05 PM.
Albuquerque returns home on Saturday, April 21 for a four game homestand that's packed with promotional heavyweights Myron Noodleman, Pennant Night, and 50-cent Hot Dog Night, as well as new favorites such as an Orbit Growth Chart for kids. 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.
Pacific Coast League Stories from April 16, 2007
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- Lincecum Named PCL Pitcher of the Week - Fresno Grizzlies
- Portland rallies from 3-0 deficit for afternoon victory - Portland Beavers
- Redbirds Avoid Sweep - Oklahoma City Comets
- 'Topes let lead slip away, fall 9-5 to Omaha - Albuquerque Isotopes
- PCL names players of the week - PCL1
- Oklahoma RedHawks Game Notes - Oklahoma City Comets
- Royals Game Notes - Omaha Storm Chasers
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