Albuquerque Nips Clips 8-7

The Albuquerque Isotopes grabbed an early lead before holding on to a narrow 8-7 win over the Columbus Clippers, Triple-A affiliate of the Cleveland Indians, today in Spring Training action at Glendale, Arizona. The victory improves Albuquerque's spring record to 2-3.

Fan-favorite Valentino Pascucci belted his first home run since arriving at Minor League camp, a two-run shot in the third that gave the Isotopes an early 5-0 lead. Catcher J.D. Closser added a two-run double in the fifth that increased the advantage to 7-2 Isotopes.

Right-hander Ronald Belisario tossed three scoreless innings before turning things over to the bullpen, which fended off a late Clippers rally to deliver the victory.

The 'Topes will stay at Camelback Ranch tomorrow for their first game against complex-mates Charlotte, Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox.

The 'Topes' regular season begins on April 9 against the Omaha Royals, Triple-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. Tickets for any Isotopes game may be purchased at the Isotopes Park Box Office, at Ticketmaster outlets, by phone at 1-800-745-3000, or on-line www.albuquerquebaseball.com or www.ticketmaster.com. For more information or for a complete list of 2009 promotions visit www.albuquerquebaseball.com.