Howard Dominant as Isotopes Shut Out River Cats, 2-0

In front of 15,664 fans, the Isotopes (41-43) rode a brilliant pitching performance from Sam Howard en route to a 2-0 shutout over the Sacramento River Cats (32-51). It was the fifth-largest crowd in Isotopes Park history.

Howard was dominant on the mound, tossing 8.0 scoreless innings while allowing just three hits and walking none. The southpaw struck out 10 opposing batters, matching his career-high. The outing marked the second time this season an Isotopes starter has pitched eight innings, with fellow lefty Ryan Carpenter accomplishing the feat on Saturday.
Sacramento starter Jose Flores also had a stellar outing, allowing just one hit to the Isotopes over his 7.0 innings of work. 
Once Flores left the ballgame in the eighth, the Isotopes quickly took advantage as Tom Murphy connected on a solo home run and Daniel Castro came through with a sacrifice fly to give the home team a 2-0 lead.
Albuquerque reliever Jairo Díaz held the lead for the Isotopes, shutting down the River Cats in the ninth inning for his second save of the season. The shutout was the fourth on the season for the Isotopes staff.
Albuquerque and Sacramento continue their three-game set on Wednesday from Isotopes Park. First pitch for game two is set for 7:05 p.m.