Albuquerque Isotopes Announce 2026 Coaching Staff

Pedro Lopez returns as manager for fourth season with minor league baseball team.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The Albuquerque Isotopes, the minor league baseball team, has announced its coaching staff for the 2026 season. Pedro Lopez will return as the team's manager, a position he has held for the past three seasons.

Why it matters

The Isotopes are a crucial part of the Albuquerque sports landscape, providing affordable family entertainment and developing talent for the major leagues. The continuity of the coaching staff is seen as a positive sign for the team's stability and competitiveness in the upcoming season.

The details

In addition to manager Pedro Lopez, the Isotopes' 2026 coaching staff will include hitting coach Jared Sandberg, pitching coach Steve Karsay, and bench coach Gookie Dawkins. Lopez has been with the team since 2023 and led them to a playoff appearance in 2025.

  • The Isotopes' 2026 season will begin on April 3, 2026.

The players

Pedro Lopez

The Isotopes' manager, who is returning for his fourth season with the team.

Jared Sandberg

The Isotopes' hitting coach for the 2026 season.

Steve Karsay

The Isotopes' pitching coach for the 2026 season.

Gookie Dawkins

The Isotopes' bench coach for the 2026 season.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to have our coaching staff back in place for the 2026 season. Their leadership and experience will be invaluable as we look to build on our success from last year and make a deep playoff run.”

— David Coss, Isotopes General Manager (kob.com)

What’s next

The Isotopes will hold their annual fan fest event on March 15, 2026, where fans can meet the players and coaching staff and get autographs.

The takeaway

The Isotopes' coaching staff continuity suggests the team is poised for another competitive season in the minor leagues, providing an affordable and family-friendly entertainment option for Albuquerque residents.