Early run not enough as El Paso rallies to 16–2 win
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — On Tuesday, April 28, the Albuquerque Isotopes opened their first game of the series against the El Paso Chihuahuas under sunny, refreshing skies that set the tone for a lively night at the ballpark.
Adding a special crossover moment to the evening, former New Mexico Lobos basketball player Jake Hall threw out the ceremonial first pitch the first former Lobos player to do so at an Isotopes game for the first time in a long time. The moment underscored a theme that would define the night: determination.
At the top of the fourth inning, the Isotopes made a pitching change, bringing in Patrick Weigel for Palmquist. The transition proved difficult, as multiple hit-by-pitches gave the Chihuahuas key opportunities to extend their lead.
By the end of the fourth inning, El Paso had surged ahead 6–1.The Chihuahuas continued to build on that lead, adding another run in the fifth and several more in the innings that followed. While both teams held steady through the seventh and eighth innings, the gap proved too wide to close.
In the final stretch, El Paso sealed the game with a commanding performance, highlighted by a double and a triple that brought the score to 16–2
Despite the tough loss, the Isotopes still have room to bounce back as the series against El Paso continues. With several games ahead, the team will look to regroup and reclaim momentum on their home field.