Hartford Yard Goats & Eversource Launch Student Reading Challenge 

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Hartford Yard Goats & Eversource Launch Student Reading Challenge Students who read five books will earn two tickets to a Yard Goats game at Dunkin’ Donuts Park

Hartford, Conn- The Hartford Yard Goats Baseball Club, the Double-A Affiliate of the Colorado Rockies, in partnership with Eversource, New England’s largest energy delivery company, has launched a student reading challenge for the 2022 season. Students (K-8th grade) who read five books outside of the school curriculum between now and August 10th will earn two tickets to a Yard Goats game at Dunkin’ Donuts Park in Hartford. One lucky student will be selected to throw out the ceremonial first pitch. Students can submit their five books and preferred game date through an online form.

“We are extremely excited to partner with Eversource on the Yard Goats Reading Challenge for students throughout Connecticut,” Yard Goats President Tim Restall said. “This program will be a fun way for students to set reading goals, and get rewarded for their efforts with tickets to a Yard Goats game. We look forward to honoring all of these diligent readers at a game this summer.”

The Yard Goats encourages all school principals, teachers, and parents to share this exciting program with their students. The Yard Goats introduced the reading challenge with a video story of “Just a Dream” by Chris Van Allsburg, which is available on (www.yardgoatsbaseball.com)), and can be shown in class. This is a story about a boy who does not care about the environment until he a terrifying dream about the future of the planet. This dream changes the boy’s perspective and encourages him to make positive energy and environmental behavior changes to keep the planet healthy.

“We’re proud to support the Reading Challenge this year and kicking it off by reading ‘Just A Dream’ is a great way to not only share the importance of reading but also teach students the value of energy efficiency,” said Eversource Vice President of Energy Efficiency Tilak Subrahmanian. “We’re always working to help our customers save money and energy, and educating kids allows them to use what they learn to help save energy in their own homes and share that information with their families.”

The Yard Goats open the 2022 season on Friday, April 8th (7:05 PM) against the New York Mets affiliate, the Binghamton Rumble Ponies. Individual game tickets, season tickets, group tickets, and luxury suites are now available for purchase on the Yard Goats website (yardgoatsbaseball.com), or over the phone

(860-246-4628), and all tickets will be delivered digitally. The Click-It-Or-Ticket Box office is open from Monday-Friday (10AM-5PM).

Top 5 Black Players in Fresno Grizzlies History

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In celebration of Black History Month, throughout February, teams across Minor League Baseball are taking a look back at five of the best Black players to suit up for their club.

While some of these standout performers went on to long and illustrious Major League careers, others simply had great Minor League careers or, in some cases, just one incredible season that went down as “a year for the ages.”

Here is a look at five of the best Black baseball players ever to suit up for the Fresno Grizzlies:

Fred Lewis

Fred Lewis was selected by the San Francisco Giants in the 2nd round of the 2002 draft out of HBCU Southern University and A&M College. Lewis dominated the lower levels of the Giants system before being called up to Fresno for a cup of coffee in 2004. After that quick stint, Lewis would make it back to the Grizzlies for the 2006 season. Over 120 games, Lewis batted .276 with an .828 OPS and at the time, a single-season, franchise-record 11 triples. His season was extended as he earned a September call-up to the Giants. In 2007, Lewis split time with Fresno and the Giants, appearing in a combined 100 games with a .290 batting average. Lewis’ last stint in Fresno came in 2010, playing in seven games. Lewis finished his career in 2015, but was known as a crowd favorite among both Grizzlies and Giants fans.

Tony Kemp

Tony Kemp was selected by the Houston Astros in the 5th round of the 2013 draft out of baseball powerhouse Vanderbilt University. Kemp vaulted through the lower levels of the Houston system before reaching Fresno during the middle of the 2015 season. For the next couple of years, Kemp would bounce between the Grizzlies and Astros. When he donned the F-slash, Kemp was unstoppable. Over four seasons (2015-18) with the Grizzlies, Kemp appeared in 296 games, slashing .312/.373/.425. He also ranks in the Top 10 of four different offensive categories for Grizzlies career records. He is first in triples (21), fourth in steals (67), eighth in runs (206) and 10th in hits (372). Despite multiple trades and teams, Kemp is still talked about as one of the biggest and kindest-hearted players to ever play for the Fresno Grizzlies.

Calvin Murray

Calvin Murray was selected by the Cleveland Indians in the 1st round of the 1989 draft, but decided to not sign and take his talents to the University of Texas. Three years later, the San Francisco Giants drafted Murray with the 7th overall pick and he signed. Murray was a part of the first 1998 Fresno Grizzlies team after spending a couple of seasons with the Phoenix Firebirds. He would spend three seasons in Fresno (1998-99, 2001), with the major chunk of it coming in 1999. In that year, Murray would go on to win the PCL Most Valuable Player, one of only two Grizzlies to ever earn those honors. Murray played 130 games, racking up 183 hits, 297 total bases and scoring 122 runs. The latter three statistics are all single-season Grizzlies records. Murray also stole 42 bases and batted .334 (top 10 single-season marks). That season will go down as one of the best offensive displays in Grizzlies history, despite it being only the second year of the Grizzlies’ existence. Besides that, Murray is known as the batter facing Randy Johnson when Johnson hit a dove with a fastball in a spring training game in 2001 and is the uncle of NFL Quarterback Kyler Murray.

Emmanuel Burriss

Emmanuel Burriss was selected by the San Francisco Giants in the 1st round of the 2006 draft out of Kent State University. Burriss spent his first couple of seasons at the Single-A Level before making the leap to Fresno in 2008. After two weeks-worth of games, Burriss had his contract selected by the Giants. For the next four years, Burriss would split time between the Central Valley and the Bay Area. He enjoyed a couple of bright spots over those four years, which included being San Francisco’s youngest Opening Day starting second baseman (2009) since Robbie Thompson back in 1986. In 2011, Burriss batted .297 over 45 games with the Grizzlies, stealing 24 bases and scoring 31 times. Most notably, he swiped a Grizzlies franchise-record four bags on April 8th against the Las Vegas 51s. Burriss finished his Fresno career playing 172 games over five seasons and became one of the best do-it-all players in Grizzlies history.

Jalal Leach

Jalal Leach was selected by the New York Yankees in the 7th round of the 1990 draft out of Pepperdine University. After playing for eight years and a trio of teams, Leach still hadn’t cracked the big leagues. At that point, he was offered a coaching position by Brian Sabean, despite still wanting to play. After some roster moves, Leach was activated as a player and would head to Fresno for the next four years, which included joining the 1998 Grizzlies club. Over those four seasons, Leach became one of the most lethal bats in the Pacific Coast League and Grizzlies history. He finished his Fresno career with four Top-10 franchise records, which included homers (8th, 52), triples (6th, 15), doubles (7th, 73) and RBI (7th, 216). The culmination of his determination and prowess at the plate earned him his long-awaited call-up to the Giants in 2001. Leach is the definition of Farm Grown in Fresno.

Yard Goats Recognize Influential Black Players In History 

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We take a look back at some of the most influential black players in the long history of the Yard Goats organization during the month of February.

As we celebrate Black History Month, Minor League Baseball® announced the launch of “The Nine,” a new, Black-community focused outreach platform specifically designed to honor and celebrate the historic impact numerous Black baseball pioneers made on the sport, provide new opportunities for youth baseball and softball participation, further diversify the business of baseball, and embrace millions of passionate fans throughout MiLB’s 120 communities nationwide.

The Nine was named for the number Jackie Robinson wore during his only season playing in MiLB with the Triple-A Montreal Royals in 1946. The Hartford Yard Goats celebrated this launch by recognizing some of the top black players in our franchise history.

As many know, the Yard Goats franchise can be traced back to 1973 when the Bristol Red Sox became the Red Sox Double-A affiliate. This would be the birth of the longest continuous professional sports team in the state of Connecticut. The franchise began with a home run as 20-year-old outfielder Jim Rice won the league batting title before going on to have a Hall of Fame career with the Boston Red Sox. Rice, who was an All-Star in Double-A, led the league with a .317 batting average and was the team leader in batting, hits, home runs (27), RBI (93), Slugging, and OPS.

Bristol also had star pitcher Dennis “Oil Can” Boyd, who went 14-8 with a 2.81 ERA in his only season at the Double-A level in 1982. “The Can” was called up directly from Bristol and pitched three games for Boston that season. He joined the Red Sox rotation full time the following season and played ten years in the Major Leagues while helping lead the Red Sox to the 1986 American League Pennant.

The Bristol Red Sox relocated to New Britain, and future American League MVP and Connecticut native Mo Vaughn arrived in 1989. The “Hit Dog” actually began his professional career in the Hardware City and batted .278 with 15 doubles, 8 home runs and 38 RBI in 74 games after a stellar college career where he became one of the most prolific hitters in Seton Hall history. In the Major Leagues, Vaughn blasted 26 plus home runs in nine consecutive seasons and was named to three All-Star teams. The Norwalk product led the AL with 126 RBI in his MVP season of 1995 and is a member of the Red Sox Hall of Fame.

Former 18-year Major League veteran Ellis Burks had his longest minor league stint with this franchise. The two-time MLB All-Star played in 257 games in New Britain, including the entire 1985 and 1986 seasons before starting his major league career in 1987. The former first round pick, played six seasons in Boston, a year with the White Sox, and became an All-Star again with the Colorado Rockies. After five seasons with the Rockies, Burks played three with the Giants and Indians and then returned to Boston where he finished his career in 2004. He is a member of the Red Sox Hall of Fame.

The New Britain Red Sox became the New Britain Rock Cats with a new affiliation, the Minnesota Twins. In 1996, a 20-year-old outfielder Torii Hunter arrived and became the team’s first big star. Like Burks, Hunter spent most of his minor league time in New Britain, playing in over 300 career games with the Rock Cats. Over that span, he cranked 21 homers and had 121 RBI, and his spectacular defense gave everyone a preview of his future nine gold gloves that he would win in the majors. The five-time MLB All-Star played 11 seasons with the Twins, five with the Angels, and two with the Tigers, before returning to Minnesota for his final season in 2015. He is a member of the Twins Hall of Fame.

Some of the other tremendous black players to wear the Rock Cats uniform include outfielders Matt Lawton, Jacque Jones, Denard Span, Ben Revere and Aaron Hicks who all went on to play eight or more seasons in the Major Leagues. Lawton was a two-time All-Star, Jones helped the Twins win three straight American League Central Division titles, Span led the majors in triples in 2013 and set a Nationals’ franchise hits record while leading the National League in 2014, Revere led the NL in runs scored in 2014, and Hicks, about to start his 10th season in the Majors, has enjoyed 3 years where he finished in the top 5 in outfield assists.

Minnesota Twins outfielder Byron Buxton was on the fast track to the bigs after being the second overall pick in the 2012 draft out of high school. Buxton reached New Britain as a 20-year-old, with just over a year of professional experience with the wooden bat. It was unfortunate that Buxton got hurt in his only game as a Rock Cats player but many knew that he had a bright future. He is known for his outstanding play in the outfield and is one of the fastest runners in Major League Baseball. Buxton is coming off one of his best offensive seasons in 2021 when he batted .306 with 23 doubles, 19 home runs and 32 RBI with the Twins.

On April 13, 2017 the Harford Yard Goats played their first ever game at Dunkin’ Donuts Park in Hartford. Right-handed pitcher Yency Almonte started for the home team and pitched well, recording eight strikeouts in five innings of work in front of a capacity crowd. The following season in 2018, Almonte reached the Major Leagues and posted a 1.84 ERA in 14 relief outings with the Colorado Rockies. He spent parts of the past four seasons in Colorado.

The Nine: The Early Years (1888-1971)

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

Minor League Baseball has announced the launch of “The Nine,” a new, Black-community focused outreach platform specifically designed to honor and celebrate the historic impact numerous Black baseball pioneers made on the sport. It’s named for the number Jackie Robinson wore during his only season playing in MiLB with the Triple-A Montreal Royals in 1946. The Albuquerque Isotopes will look back at the rich history of Black ballplayers in the Duke City by highlighting the Top Nine over various eras.

P/2B Bud Fowler – 1888

Bud Fowler played professional baseball all over the United States, usually only one year at a time due to the color of his skin. Fowler integrated baseball in New Mexico in 1888, playing for a team in Santa Fe, the only year of the New Mexico Baseball League, and also co-owned a barber shop at the Plaza. Historians estimate he played for more than a dozen leagues and Fowler himself said “22 different states and in Canada.” In 1909, the Berkshire Eagle wrote, “For 16 years he was a pitcher and for 12 years a second baseman, and he never wore a glove, taking everything that came his way with bare hands. He was considered the equal of any man who ever covered the position.” Fowler will be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in July 2022.

1B/C/OF Bill Pettus – 1902-03, 1906

Bill Pettus skirted the so-called “gentlemen’s agreement” for many years, playing baseball in 1902 and 1903 in Albuquerque, the only Black player on an otherwise all-White team. Pettus was manager and team captain in 1905 for a team made up of 10 Mexicans and 2 Blacks. They went 48-1 that season. After a year as the only Black player on teams in Oakland and San Francisco, Pettus returned to Albuquerque in 1906. He caught for the Santa Fe Salmon Grays in 1907. Pettus also made money boxing and working the coal mines near Madrid, NM. He accumulated a .330 lifetime batting average over 12 years in the Negro Leagues for teams in Kansas City, Brooklyn, New York and Philadelphia.

OF/1B William Guice – 1953-54

William Lee “Bill” Guice attended high school in Alabama, where was a three-sport star, and served four years in the Air Force. Guice was one of three Black players on the 1953 pennant-winning Albuquerque Dukes team. Guice was unstoppable, compiling a .351 batting average, 32 doubles, 18 triples, 23 home runs and 145 RBIs in 139 games. He slugged .602, posted a 1010 OPS and was a West Texas-NM League All Star. The Chicago Cubs purchased his contract after the season and he played two more years in the minors, but a career-ending knee injury forced him to retire. Guice and his wife, Gladys, moved to Limo, Ohio. He worked the rest of his life at General Motors and the Teledyne Ohio Steel Foundry, and remained an active ballplayer and bowling in community leagues.

1B/OF Herbert Simpson – 1952-54

One of the biggest trailblazers for integrating baseball in the West, Herbert Harold “Briefcase” Simpson was one of the last links to Negro League Baseball when he died in 2015. Simpson integrated the Class-A Western International League in 1952, when he played at Spokane, then integrated the Class-C West Texas-New Mexico League when his contract was sold to the Dukes. Simpson played three years in Albuquerque and was one of the most popular players. His best season was 1953, when he slashed .372/.475/.563, as the Dukes won the league title. Dukes owner Cy Fausett invited Simpson to marry his high school sweetheart, Sophie Harris, at home plate before a game at Tingley Field in 1954. When Simpson injured his right ankle, the Dukes donated 10 percent of the proceeds from a game to help offset his medical bills.

LHP Grover Blacksher – 1953-54

A few days after graduating from El Cerrito High in Northern California, pitcher Grover Blacksher was signed by the Oakland Oaks of the Pacific Coast League and assigned to the Albuquerque Dukes in the West Texas-NM League. At age 18, Blacksher nearly threw a no-hitter for the Dukes on Sept. 13, 1953, giving up one hit in the eighth inning of a 5-0 win over Lubbock. That was Game 2 of the playoff series against Lubbock. Two weeks later, Blacksher was on the mound for the pennant-clinching victory over Clovis. A diminutive lefty who was listed at 5’7, 150 pounds, Blacksher was a consistent pitcher for the Dukes for two seasons.

RHP Reggie Lee – 1956

The Dukes were affiliated with the New York Giants in 1956 and played in the Class-A Western League. One of their pitchers was born James Reginald Lee in 1933 in Philadelphia. As a player, he went by Reggie Lee and he was a workhorse for the Dukes. Lee started 25 games and went the distance 10 times. Lee compiled an 11-9 record and 4.14 ERA. In an era when strikeouts were rare, Lee whiffed 183 batters in 176 innings (and also walked 115). Lee also hit one home run. Lee played two more seasons of minor league baseball before his professional playing career ended.

OF Willie Crawford – 1966-67

Los Angeles native Willie Crawford was clocked at 9.7 seconds in the 100-yard dash, making him a highly recruited running back for college. But two days after graduating from high school in 1963, Crawford signed with the Dodgers for $100,000. This was before the draft and the “Bonus Baby Rule” meant that Crawford had to spend time in the majors immediately, so Crawford make his debut at age 17 in 1964, and got a pinch-hit single in the 1965 World Series. Crawford played for Double-A Albuquerque in 1966 and 1967. The latter year he led the team to a first-place finish. Crawford was sixth in average (.305), seventh in homers (21) and eighth in OPS (888). He played 14 years in the major leagues and was a starting outfielder on the Dodgers 1974 World Series team.

RHP Leon Everitt – 1967

In an era before pitch counts and innings were monitored closely for young pitchers, Leon Everitt had the type of season in 1967 that would never occur now. At age 20, in his second full season of pro ball, Everitt made 30 starts, went the distance 16 times, tossed two shutouts, and compiled 222 innings. Everitt was 15-13 with a 3.45 ERA, and the Dodgers thought so highly of him, he was included on their roster for a Goodwill Tour to Japan that offseason. McBean reached the majors in 1969 with the expansion San Diego Padres, where he pitched in five games, but that proved to the final season of his career.

OF Von Joshua – 1968, 1972, 1988-92

Von Joshua crosses over a lot of significant markers in the Duke City’s baseball history. In 1968, he played for the Double-A Albuquerque Dodgers in the final season at Tingley Field. In 1972, he played for the Albuquerque Dukes in the first season as a Triple-A affiliate. Joshua won the PCL batting title that year with a .337 average, while adding 47 extra-base hits and 17 stolen bases. He played 10 years in the major leagues, then turned to coaching, and returned to Albuquerque again as the Dukes hitting coach from 1988-92. Joshua was inducted into the Albuquerque Professional Baseball Hall of Fame in 2014.

Other The Nine Articles:

The Nine: Isotopes Era (2003-Current)

The Nine: Triple-A Dukes Era (1972-2000)

The Nine – Triple-A Dukes Era (1972-2000)

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

Minor League Baseball has announced the launch of “The Nine,” a new, Black-community focused outreach platform specifically designed to honor and celebrate the historic impact numerous Black baseball pioneers made on the sport. It’s named for the number Jackie Robinson wore during his only season playing in MiLB with the Triple-A Montreal Royals in 1946. The Albuquerque Isotopes will look back at the rich history of Black ballplayers in the Duke City by highlighting the Top Nine over various eras.

2B Davey Lopes — 1972

Known as part of “The Infield” that was together from 1973-81, Davey Lopes actually started his pro career as an outfielder. Lopes was already 27 years old when he made his Major League Debut, but still played 16 years through his age-42 season. On the 1972 Dukes, Lopes showed the skills that would define his career: .317 batting average, .411 on-base percentage and 48-of-58 stolen bases. Lopes was a four-time All Star, received the most votes of any player for the 1980 All-Star Game, won a Gold Glove, led the league in stolen bases twice, stole 38-straight bases, and was successful on 83% of his career steal attempts.

OF Larry Hisle — 1972

The 1972 Dukes team is one of the best in minor league baseball history, and Hisle was arguably the best player on it. Hisle batted .325 with 23 home runs, 91 RBI and 20 stolen bases over 131 games. That season in Albuquerque was three years _after _Hisley had finished fourth in Rookie of the Year voting and it resurrected his career. Hisle was a two-time All Star with the Twins, leading the league with 119 RBIs in 1977 and mashing 34 home runs the year after. Hisle also owns the unique distinction of being the first designated hitter of a spring training game, in 1973, when he connected on two home runs. As a coach with the Blue Jays, he won World Series titles in 1992 and 1993.

OF Jeffrey Leonard – 1976, 1978

A three-sport star at Overbrook High, Jeffrey “HacMan” Leonard had 60 scholarship offers to play college football and five for basketball, but chose pro baseball even though he wasn’t drafted. Leonard made a mockery of PCL pitching in 1978, slashing .365/.443/.532 with 48 extra-base hits, 93 RBIs and 36 stolen bases. With a crowded outfield, the Dodgers traded Leonard to the Astros and he was the runner-up Rookie of the Year in 1979. Leonard is most remembered for his years with the Giants, when he went from Jeff to Jeffrey, reached his first All-Star Game, became known for his “one-flap down” home run trot, and won the 1987 NLCS Most Valuable Player award, even though his team lost the series.

RHP Dave Stewart – 1977, 1979-80

Known for his “Death Stare” on the mound, Stewart spent the entire 1979 and 1980 seasons with the Dukes. He nearly won the pitchers Triple Crown in 1980, leading the league in innings with a staggering 202, tied for the league lead with 15 wins, and finished second with 125 strikeouts. Stewart won 20 or more games in four straight years for his hometown Oakland A’s from 1987-90 and tossed a no-hitter. But he was most known for his postseason dominance, making 18 starts, posting a 2.84 ERA, a 1.10 WHIP, and winning the MVP three times (1989 World Series, 1990 ALCS and 1993 ALCS). Stewart has worked as a coach, general manager, agent and TV analyst after his playing career ended.

OF Mike Devereaux — 1988

Coming out of powerhouse Arizona State, Mike Devereaux was already a five-tool prospect and his 1988 season with the Dukes vaulted him to one of the best prospects in the sport. Devereaux batted .340, hit 13 home runs en route to a .513 slugging percentage, stole 33 bases and played outstanding center field for the Dukes. But the Dodgers needed pitching, so he was traded to the Orioles for right-hander Mike Morgan. It took Deveraux a few years to get established, then he finished seventh in MVP voting in 1992 with 24 home runs and 107 RBIs. Devereaux won a World Series with the Braves in 1995 and was the MVP of the NLCS. In all, Devereaux played 12 years in the majors and is a member of the Orioles Hall of Fame.

RHP Ken Howell – 1983-84, 1987-88

Whatever role was needed, Ken Howell filled it. He was a swingman for the Dukes in 1984, starting nine games, relieving in nine games, winning eight, finishing seven, and going the distance three times. Howell saved a combined 24 games for the Dodgers in his initial two years in the majors, before a trade to the Phillies and a switch back to the starting rotation. Howell returned to the Dodgers organization in 1988 and posted a dominant 10-1 record with a 3.27 ERA with the Dukes. Howell was a coach for the Dodgers in the majors and minors, and instrumental in the conversion of Kenley Jansen from catcher to pitcher. Diagnosed with diabetes, Howell brought attention to the disease, before passing away in 2018 at age 57.

INF Eric Young, Sr. – 1991-92

Despite being a 43rd round draft pick, Eric Young reached the major leagues and stayed there for 15 seasons. Young’s final year in the minors was in 1992 with the Dukes, when he walked more times (33) than he struck out (18), compiled a .337 batting average and stole 28 bases. Young was a Dodger then, but his connections to the Rockies are stronger. Selected in the expansion draft, Young hit a leadoff home run in the Rockies first home game in 1993, was an instrumental member of their 1995 playoff team, and his son Eric Junior played for the Rockies as well. Senior won a World Series as a member of the Braves coaching staff in 2021.

OF Darryl Strawberry – 1993

Darryl Strawberry went 10 years between appearances in the minor leagues, from his final game as a top prospect with Triple-A Tidewater in 1983, until starting a rehab assignment for the Dukes in 1993. Strawberry was returning from a back injury that only allowed him to play 32 games that year for the Dodgers. He signed autographs for seemingly everyone in Albuquerque and talked to reporters frequently during his rehab assignment. Strawberry went 6-for-19 with two doubles, a home run and two RBIs in five games for the Dukes. Strawberry played 17 years in the major league, was selected to eight All-Star Games, won World Series titles with the Mets in 1986 and the Yankees in 1996 and 1999.

1B Eddie Murray — 1997

Eddie Murray thought his playing career was over when the Angels released him on August 14, 1997. But six days later, after a call from Dodgers General Manager Fred Claire, Murray was at the Albuquerque Sports Stadium, wearing a Dukes uniform and talking to reporters. The 41-year-old Murray played nine games for the Dukes, batted .308, hit a pair of home runs, then the Dodgers brought him back to the major leagues to conclude his Hall of Fame career. Murray was an eight-time All-Star, three-time Gold Glove and Silver Slugger award winner, won the 1977 Rookie of the Year, finished in the Top 6 of MVP voting seven times, and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2003.

Check back to www.abqisotopes.com throughout February as we celebrate the most prominent Black players in the Duke City’s history from the Isotopes era (2003-current), the Dukes Triple-A era (1972-2000), and the Early Years (1888-1971).

The Nine: Isotopes Era (2003-Current)

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

Minor League Baseball has announced the launch of “The Nine,” a new, Black-community focused outreach platform specifically designed to honor and celebrate the historic impact numerous Black baseball pioneers made on the sport. It’s named for the number Jackie Robinson wore during his only season playing in MiLB with the Triple-A Montreal Royals in 1946. The Albuquerque Isotopes will look back at the rich history of Black ballplayers in the Duke City by highlighting the Top Nine over various eras.

1B Ryan Howard — 2017

When news broke that Ryan Howard was attempting a comeback, that he signed with the Colorado Rockies, and was assigned to Triple-A Albuquerque, the initial thought was disbelief. Really? The three-time All-Star first baseman, the 2005 Rookie of the Year, the 2006 Most Valuable Player, the slugger with 382 home runs is really coming to the Isotopes? Yes, it was true. Howard made his Isotopes debut on August 13, 2017. He played in 16 games over the last three weeks, and while his batting average was only .192, seven of his 10 hits were for extra bases, including a walk-off home run to defeat Reno on August 30.

Manager Glenallen Hill – 2015-19

Once or twice a year, Glenallen Hill stepped into the batting cage at Isotopes Park, and with an effortless swing, launched balls out of the ballpark and into the CNM Parking Lot. It was a reminder of the feared slugger who blasted 182 home runs over 13 years in the majors, including one onto the Rooftops across the street from Wrigley Field. Hill’s job with the Isotopes was manager, however, and his calm demeanor was appreciated by Triple-A players whose careers are often at a crossroads. Hill nearly guided the Isotopes into the playoffs in 2016 and 2017, and always had a knack for finding a creative way to tell players they were going to The Show.

Hitting Coach Franklin Stubbs – 1983-85, 2013-14

The baseball life of Franklin Stubbs went full circle when the Dodgers made him their hitting coach at Triple-A Albuquerque for the 2013 and 2014 seasons. As a player, Stubbs was a former first-round pick by the Dodgers in 1982 and played parts of three seasons with the Dukes from 1983-85. Stubbs etched his name into the baseball history books on June 2, 1983, when he hit four home runs in one game at the old Albuquerque Sports Stadium. After his playing career ended, Stubbs took to mentoring younger players as a coach. Stubbs’ star pupil in 2014 was Joc Pederson, the Pacific Coast League’s Most Valuable Player.

1B John Lindsey – 2010

“Big John” was a baseball lifer who played 21 seasons of professional baseball, appearing in 2,277 games and accumulating 9,213 plate appearances. His best season came in 2010, at age 33, when Lindsey slashed .353/.400/.657 for the Isotopes. Lindsey just missed a batting title by percentage points, but that .353 average remains the best in Isotopes history. Lindsey added 41 doubles and 25 home runs, drove in 97 RBIs, and was rewarded with his only callup to the Major Leagues in September. The only thing bigger than Lindsey’s potent bat was his constant smile. Isotopes fans voted him their “Fan Favorite” by the end of the season.

OF Trayvon Robinson – 2011, 2014

It seemed like destiny that Trayvon Robinson would play for the Dodgers organization. He attended Crenshaw High in Los Angeles, the same as Darryl Strawberry. His last name was the same as Jackie, the trailblazer whose uniform is retired by all MLB teams. The Dodgers selected Trayvon in the 10th round and his five-tool prowess was on display in 2011, when he was selected to the PCL All-Star Game, hit 26 home runs, drove in 71 runs, compiled a .938 OPS and elegantly chased down flyballs in the spacious Isotopes Park outfield. Robinson returned to the Topes in 2014 and was ecstatic to catch the ceremonial first pitch thrown by Petie Gibson, the grandson of Hall of Famer Josh Gibson, on Negro League Tribute Night.

OF Tony Gwynn, Jr. – 2012-13

The first time Tony Gwynn Jr. played at Isotopes Park was during his collegiate years at San Diego State, when his Hall of Fame father was the head coach. Tony has another family connection to the Duke City. His uncle, Chris Gwynn, played for the Dukes from 1987-89. As a Topes player, Tony left his biggest mark in Albuquerque during Game Four of the 2012 playoffs, when the Topes trailed, 10-3, in the seventh inning and were facing elimination. Gwynn’s go-ahead, three-run homer capped a nine-run rally that sent the ballpark into delirium. Gwynn hit an even .300 in 2013, and compiled a .393 on-base percentage, with his discerning eye. But fans also recall the numerous catches Gwynn made on the unique “Topes Slope” in center field.

CF Matt Kemp – 2012-13

Some rehab assignments are more famous than others. When Kemp came to Albuquerque in 2012, he was coming off a runner-up finish in the Most Valuable Player voting, a Gold Glove award in center field, a Silver Slugger, and he’d come tantalizingly close to joining the “40/40 Club” with 39 home runs and 40 stolen bases. On May 27-28, Kemp put on a show, going a combined 5-for-7 with a home run in each game and five RBIs. He returned later in 2012 and again in 2013 on rehab assignments, adding demand at the box office and electricity in the stands.

SS/2B Dee Strange-Gordon – 2011-13

Before he was a two-time All Star, Gold Glove and Silver Slugger winner in the Major Leagues, Gordon terrorized Topes opponents with his speed and hand-eye coordination for the Isotopes. He first arrived at Triple-A in 2011 as a shortstop, hit .333, scored an astounding 51 runs in 70 games, and was successful on 30-of-34 stolen bases, a pace of 118 runs and 69 steals for a 162-game season. After the Dodgers traded for Hanley Ramirez, Gordon was back with the Topes late in the 2012 season and helped them reach the playoffs. Then, in 2013, Gordon made the successful conversion to second base, led the league with 49 stolen bases, and compiled a 20-game hitting streak before returning to the majors for good.

OF Wynton Bernard – 2021

Even before he arrived in Albuquerque, outfielder Wynton Bernard knew all about the city, the food, and the sports facilities. His older brother, Walter, was all All-Conference defensive back for the University of New Mexico football team, and family outings to the Duke City were a regular occurrence. On the diamond, Bernard joined Lindsey and Robinson in getting selected “Fan Favorite” by Isotopes fans in 2021. Bernard wowed fans with his speed, once scoring a game winner on a shallow flyball to left field once, and scored from second base on a groundout to the pitcher. The highlight was making a circus catch, falling down on The Hill in center field, then waving and blowing kisses to the fans while still seated.

https://www.krqe.com/sports/local-sports/isotopes-outfielder-wynton-bernard-has-childhood-ties-to-lobo-football/

Check back to www.abqisotopes.com throughout February as we celebrate the most prominent Black players in the Duke City’s history from the Isotopes era (2003-current), the Dukes Triple-A era (1972-2000) and the Early Years (1888-1971)

Yard Goats Announce Game Day Application Process for 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

Yard Goats Announce Game Day Application Process for 2022 Season

Baseball Club looking for upbeat, fan-friendly individuals to work at Dunkin’ Donuts Park this upcoming season

Hartford, Conn- The Hartford Yard Goats Baseball Club, the Double-A Affiliate of the Colorado Rockies, has announced the employment application process for the 2022 season. Starting today, job seekers have the opportunity to apply on the website (www.yardgoatsbaseball.com) for a number of seasonal positions available with the team. For those that are unable to apply on the website, the Yard Goats will also be hosting a Job Fair at Dunkin’ Donuts Park on Saturday, February 19th from 10:00 AM until 1:00 PM.

The Yard Goats are seeking applicants to fill a wide range of game day positions and looking for upbeat, fan-friendly individuals to help make the upcoming season in Hartford another huge success. The Yard Goats was recently named the winner of the Double-A Bob Freitas Award by Baseball America as the top franchise for community involvement, long-term business success, and consistent operational excellence. Dunkin’ Donuts Park attracted over one-million fans over its first three seasons in Hartford.

The Yard Goats and their food and beverage provider, Professional Sports Catering, have opportunities available and will staff an average of 300 positions which include: ushers, ticket takers, box office personnel, merchandising, grounds crew, concessions, kitchen personnel, and catering.

“We are looking for individuals that would like to join us in helping enhance the fan experience with outstanding customer service at Dunkin’ Donuts Park,” Yard Goats General Manager Mike Abramson said. “There is so much excitement leading into the 2022 season and we can’t wait to get our new employees ready for Opening Night on April 8th.”

The Yard Goats open the 2022 season on Friday, April 8th (7:05 PM) against the New York Mets affiliate, the Binghamton Rumble Ponies. Yard Goats season tickets are available by calling 860-246-GOAT (4628).

###

CONTACT:

Jeff Dooley

Hartford Yard Goats Media Relations

Isotopes Annual Job Fair Goes Online

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

The Albuquerque Isotopes, along with Spectra Hospitality, are currently accepting applications for dozens of jobs that are available for the upcoming season. These positions are the seasonal, game day opportunities needed to operate New Mexico’s premier family entertainment venue for approximately 100 Isotopes games, soccer matches and other events at Rio Grande Credit Union Field at Isotopes Park.

The application process will be done exclusively online this year, with specific instructions available on the Isotopes’ website.

The Isotopes and Spectra, the stadium food services provider, will be accepting applications for a variety of exciting positions. The following openings will be available:

ISOTOPES POSITIONS

Access Controller

Bag Checker/Gate Greeter

Bat Boy/Clubhouse Assistant

Cleaning Staff

Fun Zone Attendant

Grounds Crew (Game Day)

Groundskeeper (Full-Time Seasonal)

Metal Detector/Divestor

Music Operator

Parking Attendant

Pro Shop Attendant

Promo Crew

Security

Ticket Seller

Ticket Taker

Usher

Videoboard Operator

SPECTRA FOOD SERVICES POSITIONS

Bartender

Cashier

Catering Runner

Catering Supervisor

Concession Stand Leader

Concession Supervisor

Cook

Dishwasher

Prep Cook

Security Personnel

Warehouse Worker

Job seekers can expect game day positions to run from mid-March through mid-October, depending on the position.

Top 5 Black Players in Spokane Indians History

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

In celebration of Black History Month, throughout February, teams across Minor League Baseball are taking a look back at five of the best Black players to suit up for their club.

While some of these standout performers went on to long and illustrious Major League careers, others simply had great Minor League careers or, in some cases, just one incredible season that went down as “a year for the ages.”

Here is a look at five of the best Black baseball players ever to suit up for the Spokane Indians.

Tommy Davis

A native of Brooklyn, NY, Tommy Davis moved west with the Dodgers organization and reached Spokane in 1959. The sweet-swinging outfielder was an absolute wrecking ball for the Indians that year, finishing the season with a league-leading .345 average, 211 hits, 32 doubles, 18 home runs, 78 RBIs, 21 stolen bases, and more walks (40) than strikeouts (29). He had a cup of coffee with the Dodgers that season, striking out in his lone at-bat before joining the team full time in 1960. Davis captured back-to-back National League batting titles in 1962 (.346, league-leading 153 RBI) and 1963 (.326), helping the team to a World Series title in 1963. Injuries prevented Davis from continuing his Hall-of-Fame trajectory, but the Indians alum still finished his career with a pair of All-Star appearances, two batting titles, and more than 2,100 hits over 18 big league seasons.

Willie Davis

After signing as an 18-year-old out of Mineral Springs, AR, Davis quickly proved the minors were no match for his prowess at the plate and speed on the basepaths. He captured the California League MVP with the Reno Silver Sox in 1959 and earned a promotion to Spokane the following year. Davis showed his first season was no fluke, hitting .346 with 26 triples and 30 stolen bases for the Indians as he again captured the league MVP award. Still just 20, Davis earned a late-season call-up with the Dodgers and hit .318 in 22 games. He took over as the full-time centerfielder in 1961 and would remain a fixture there through the 1973 season, winning World Series titles in 1963 and 1965. Davis wrapped up his 18-year career with 398 stolen bases, 182 home runs, 1,053 RBIs, and over 2,500 hits, and still holds the Los Angeles Dodgers record for longest hit streak at 31 games.

Dave Henderson

A first-round pick by the Seattle Mariners in the 1977 draft, Henderson reached Spokane in 1980 and held his own as a 21-year-old, slashing .279/.366/.422 with seven home runs and 50 RBIs in 109 games. He returned to Spokane in 1981 and improved his power and plate discipline (.279/.385/.504) to earn a promotion to Seattle. Hendu was a solid performer for the Mariners over the next 4.5 seasons before being traded to Boston in 1986, where his performance in that year’s World Series (.400, 6 R, 2 HR, 5 RBI) nearly led the Red Sox to their first championship since 1918. Henderson split the following season with Boston and San Francisco before breaking out with Oakland (.304, 24 HR, 94 RBIs) as a 30-year-old in 1988. He would remain in the Bay Area through 1993, helping the A’s to a World Series title in 1989 and earning an All-Star appearance in 1991. Hendu retired following the 1994 season with 197 home runs, 1,324 hits, and a career WAR of 27.6.

Don Newcombe

Newcombe spent two years with the Negro League’s Newark Eagles before embarking on an historic MLB career with the Dodgers, Reds, and Indians. The towering right-hander was named Rookie of the Year for the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1949 after finishing 17-8 with a 3.17 ERA and league-leading five shutouts, also becoming the first black pitcher to start a World Series game that same year. He earned All-Star nods the next two seasons (leading the league in strikeouts in 1951) before serving in the Korean War from 1952-53. He struggled in his return to Brooklyn the following season but rebounded with 20 wins and a World Series title in 1955. Newcombe had a season for the ages in 1956, posting a 0.989 WHIP and winning 27 games to earn league MVP and baseball’s first-ever Cy Young Award (which was awarded to only one pitcher in all of baseball at the time). “Newk” spent two more seasons with the Dodgers before finishing out his big league career with the Reds (1958-60) and Indians (1960). He signed with the Dodgers and attempted an MLB comeback with the Spokane Indians in 1961 (where he was teammates with fellow Negro League alum Curt Roberts) but struggled to a 4.96 ERA over 25 games. Newcombe, always a good hitter for a pitcher, wrapped up his playing career as a first baseman/outfielder alongside Larry Doby for Japan’s Chunichi Dragons in 1962.

Maury Wills

The speedy infielder from Washington, DC, spent seven seasons in the minors before reaching Spokane in 1958, where Indians manager Bobby Bragan convinced a struggling Wills to pick up switch-hitting. That decision changed the course of Wills’ career, as he would go on to become one of the most decorated MLB players in Spokane history. Wills hit .253 with 21 stolen bases in first season in Spokane before improving to .313 in 1959 to earn a late-season promotion to the Dodgers. He became a full-time player in 1960 and led the National League in stolen bases for the next six years, highlighted by an MLB record 104 in 1962 as he captured the NL MVP award. Wills won World Series titles with Los Angeles in 1959, 1963, and 1965 while also earning five All-Star appearances and a pair of Gold Glove awards. He retired following the 1972 season with a .281 career average, 2,134 hits, and 586 stolen bases. Wills would later become just the third Black manager in MLB history, following Frank Robinson and Larry Doby, when he helmed the Mariners in 1980-81. His son, Bump Wills, graduated from Spokane’s Central Valley High School and spent six years in the big leagues with the Texas Rangers and Chicago Cubs.

Honorable Mention

Curtis Terry: “Big Rig” spent time with Spokane in 2016-17 before a breakout season in 2018 (.337, 15 HR, 60 RBIs) earned him the Northwest League MVP award. Terry reached the majors with the Texas Rangers in 2021 and signed with the Minnesota Twins in the off-season.

Jay Gainer: A 24th-round pick by the San Diego Padres, Gainer captured the league batting title in 1990 (.356, 10 HR, 54 RBIs) and helped lead the Indians to their fourth consecutive NWL championship. He reached the majors with Colorado in 1993 and homered on the first pitch he saw in the big leagues. Gainer later managed the Yakima Bears and currently serves as head coach at Davis HS in Yakima.

Dee Brown: The 14th-overall pick in the 1996 draft by the Kansas City Royals, Brown captured the NWL MVP award as a 19-year-old in 1997 after slashing .326/.404/.564 with 13 HR, 73 RBI, and 17 SB. He spent part of eight seasons in the majors and played for more years in Japan before embarking on a career as a coach.

Ken Harvey: A first-team All-American with Nebraska in 1999, Harvey was drafted in the 5th round of that year’s draft by the Royals and won the NWL batting title with Spokane that season with an eye-popping .397 average. Harvey spent just four years in the majors, but earned an All-Star appearance in 2004, and currently works as a coach in Kansas.

Carl Edwards Jr.: A lowly 48th-round pick out of Prosperity, SC, the “String Bean Slinger” was absolutely electric for the Spokane Indians in 2012, striking out 60 over 47 innings with a 2.11 ERA and 0.957 WHIP. Edwards went on to win a World Series title with the Chicago Cubs in 2016 and has posted a career 3.77 ERA in 206 big league appearances.

About the Spokane Indians

The Spokane Indians are the High-A affiliate of the Colorado Rockies located in Spokane, Washington. Avista Stadium is home to the $5 Kids Bench Seat courtesy of MultiCare. Parking at all Spokane Indians games is FREE. The Spokane Indians office and team store hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

Yard Goats to Once Again Host Connecticut’s Largest Halloween Trick or Treat Community Event    

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

Free Event set for Sunday, October 24th at Dunkin’ Donuts Park from 12:00PM until 3:00PM

Hartford, Conn- The Hartford Yard Goats Baseball Club, the Double-A Affiliate of the Colorado Rockies, has announced it will be hosting Connecticut’s largest Halloween Trick or Treat community event for the third year at Dunkin’ Donuts Park on Sunday, October 24th from 12:00 pm until 3:00 pm. This free event will be open to the public and kids 12 and under are invited to participate. The Yard Goats Halloween Trick or Treat will take place throughout the open concourse at the ballpark. All participants may enter through the Center Field gate on Trumbull Street.

Over 50 local businesses and sponsors will be participating in the event and passing out candy to the kids.

“We’re happy to be able to once again provide a fun environment for children to celebrate Halloween,” Yard Goats President Tim Restall said. “It’s another great way Dunkin’ Donuts Park serves as the front porch of our community.”

What: Hartford Yard Goats Halloween Trick or Treat Community Event

When: Sunday, October 24**th** (12:00pm until 3:00pm)

Where: Dunkin’ Donuts Park in Hartford

The Yard Goats open the 2022 season on Friday, April 8th against the New York Mets affiliate, the Binghamton Rumble Ponies.

Isotopes Team Up With Enlace Comunitario For “Homers That Help”

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

For each home run hit by Triple-A teams (home and road), during the Triple-A Final Stretch of the last 10 games of the season, Major League Baseball will donate $50 per home run to a local charity selected by each team. The club with the most home runs over the 10-game span will generate an additional $5,000 donation for their charity.

The Albuquerque Isotopes have chosen Enlace Comunitario to be the beneficiary of the “Homers That Help” initiative. The mission of Enlace Comunitario is to transform the lives of individuals and their families experiencing domestic violence by working to decrease gender inequity and intimate partner violence in the Latinx immigrant community in Central New Mexico.

The Isotopes’ “Final Stretch” begins tonight as they host Reno at 6:35 p.m. to launch their final homestand of the season. The team finishes the regular season with five games at Sacramento from September 29-October 3.

Yard Goats to Host Negro Leagues Day Celebration at July 15th Game

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

Autographs and Photos with Sean Gibson, great grandson of legendary Negro League Player Josh Gibson

Hartford, Conn- The Hartford Yard Goats Baseball Club, the Double-A Affiliate of the Colorado Rockies, will be hosting a Negro Leagues Day Celebration at its home game on Thursday, July 15th (7:05 PM vs New Hampshire Fisher Cats) at Dunkin’ Donuts Park, in partnership with the Josh Gibson Foundation. The National Negro League was founded in 1920 by Rube Foster and showcased the talents of Jackie Robinson, Satchell Paige, Josh Gibson and others.

Gibson, considered one of the greatest home run hitters, and most feared sluggers of any era, played in the Negro Leagues, Dominican Republic, Mexico and Puerto Rico leagues, but never played in the Major Leagues. He was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1972, the second ever Negro League player to be so honored.

Sean Gibson, Josh’s great grandson, will be in attendance and available for autographs and photos. Live music, a step show, drumming and vendor tables will also be part of the event. The first 1,000 fans will receive a commemorative Negro League lanyard. Tickets are available by calling 860-246-GOAT (4628), by visiting online at www.yardgoatsbaseball.com, or in person at the Click It or Ticket Box Office at Dunkin’ Donuts Park.

“‘Negro Leagues Day’ is Hartford and Connecticut’s day to recognize the history, culture, education, and long overdue awareness of challenges and triumphs experienced by so many, including the legends like Josh Gibson, Hartford’s own, Johnny ‘Schoolboy Taylor’ and the first woman to play professional baseball full-time, Toni Stone,” said Executive Director of the Hartford Yard Goats Foundation Tiffany Young. “July 15th will mark a day of celebration through music, dance, art, and baseball for all to enjoy.”

Josh Gibson left an undeniable legacy, and to honor that legacy of achievement, the family established “The Josh Gibson Foundation” in 1994. The Josh Gibson Foundation has evolved into an organization dedicated to providing a variety of academic and athletic programs that allow the next Josh Gibson to reach his or her potential.

Spokane Indians Team Up to Restore War Veterans Memorial Field in Wellpinit

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

WELLPINIT, Wash. – The Spokane Indians front office once again teamed up with local community partners to make a big difference in our region. On Wednesday, June 16th the front office joined the Boys & Girls Club of Wellpinit, Spokane Tribe Fuels Department, Spokane Tribe Maintenance Department, Tribal Department of Natural Resources, Tribal Water Department, members of the Wellpinit High School girls softball team, and community members Gladys Rhoads and Billy Shawn Flett Jr. to restore War Veterans Memorial Field in Wellpinit, Washington.

The renovation had many areas of improvement, including the installation of four large autumn blaze maple trees for shade, new field bases & measurements, new dugouts, new player benches, new signage, new trash cans, and a new main water line. The complex also had its perimeter fence repaired, bleachers repaired and painted, and the installation of a new gravel pathway and entrance. In total, 120 bags of infield Turface mix, 25 yards of bark, and 12 tons of gravel were used in the refurbishment project of War Veterans Memorial Field. The project was made possible with the approval of the Spokane Tribe Business Council and by the contributions of materials from Wittkopf Landscape Supply, a SiteOne Company.

“We’ve obviously proud of our partnership with the Spokane Tribe of Indians and are always looking to do projects together,” explained Otto Klein, Senior Vice President of the Spokane Indians Baseball Team. “The field renovation project was a fun, collaborative effort to improve a youth sports facility in the heart of the reservation. We can’t wait to see the players’ reactions when they play their next game.”

The restoration and improvement project is an extension of the historic partnership with the Spokane Tribe of Indians and the Spokane Indians Baseball Team. It is also the second time the Indians front office has helped lead a field renovation project. In 2019, the front office helped refurbish Redband Field located in Spokane’s Peaceful Valley.

About the Spokane Indians

The Spokane Indians are the High-A affiliate of the Colorado Rockies located in Spokane, Washington. Avista Stadium is home to the $5 Kids Bench Seat courtesy of MultiCare. Parking at all Spokane Indians games is FREE. The Spokane Indians Team Store is open M-F 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM, and 10:00 AM to the end of the game on all game days. Reserve your seats today.

Concessionaire to Hold Job Fair this Thursday, June 10

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

Spectra Food Services and Hospitality, the exclusive concessionaire at Rio Grande Credit Union Field at Isotopes Park, will be holding a job fair this Thursday afternoon, June 10, from 4-7 p.m.

Spectra is looking to fill more than 50 game-day positions, with some of jobs being fill on-the-spot.

Applicants should bring a resume, photo ID, Social Security card and proof of alcohol certification if applicable.

Those interviewing can apply for a wide range of positions, including:

– Suite attendants

– Hospitality attendants

– Food Runners

– Dishwashers

– Bartenders

– Spectra Security

– Cooks

Applications can be completed in advance to help expedite the process. Applications can be downloaded here.

New Mexico Department of Health & Albuquerque Isotopes Offer COVID-19 Vaccinations

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

Fans receiving their first or second shot will receive 2021 Isotopes tickets

 

The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) and the Albuquerque Isotopes have announced a partnership to hold COVID-19 vaccination clinics during the Isotopes six-game homestand beginning today, June 3 and running through Tuesday, June 8.

The COVID-19 vaccination clinic will be held on the concourse at Rio Grande Credit Union Field at Isotopes Park during each of the six games during the homestand. Fans who want to receive the vaccine can do so from the time the gates open until approximately the fifth inning of each game. Specifically, the schedule is as follows:

Thursday, June 3
Gates open at 5:30 PM
Game scheduled to start at 6:35 PM

Friday, June 4
Gates open at 5:30 PM
Game scheduled to start at 6:35 PM

Saturday, June 5
Gates open at 5:30 PM
Game scheduled to start at 6:35 PM

Sunday, June 6
Gates open at 5:00 PM
Game scheduled to start at 6:05 PM

Monday, June 7
Gates open at 5:30 PM
Game scheduled to start at 6:35 PM

Tuesday, June 8
Gates open at 11:00 AM
Game scheduled to start at 12:05 PM

The NMDOH will be dispensing the Pfizer vaccine, including the booster, to anyone 12 and older who hasn’t yet received their vaccine. There is no registration required, however fans can schedule an appointment by visiting VaccineNM.org and using the special event code Isotopes3 for June 3, Isotopes4 for June 4, Isotopes for June 5, Isotopes6 for June 6, Isotopes7 for June 7, and Isotopes8 for June 8.

Individuals who receive a shot will be given two (2) Reserved Level ticket vouchers for any remaining 2021 Albuquerque Isotopes game, excluding July 4, based on ticket availability.

Fan vaccinations – like all COVID-19 vaccinations – are free of charge and are being made available on a walk-up basis. Attendees who receive their first COVID-19 vaccination at one of these events can then schedule a follow-up appointment to receive their second vaccination at a later date with any provider.

For more information regarding COVID-19, please visit https://cv.nmhealth.org/. Also, protect yourself and your family by activating NMNotify, the state’s COVID-19 exposure notification system, on your Android or iPhone. For instructions visit https://NMNotify.com.

For tickets and information about the Isotopes, please visit abqisotopes.com.

NMDOH

Matt Bieber, Communications Director | [email protected] | (505) 470-2290

The Department of Health works to promote health and wellness, improve health outcomes, and deliver services to all New Mexicans. As New Mexico’s largest state agency, DOH offers public health services in all 33 counties and collaborates with 23 Native American tribes, Pueblos and nations.