WICHITA, Kansas (July 24, 2025) — With the series tied at one game apiece, the Frisco RoughRiders (9-14, 47-44) are set to face the Wichita Wind Surge (11-12, 48-44), the Double-A affiliate of the Minnesota Twins, in the third game of a six-game set Thursday evening from Equity Bank Park. First pitch is scheduled for 6:35 p.m. CT.
Thursday’s contest features a pitching matchup between two hurlers making early impressions in their respective seasons. Frisco hands the ball to right-hander Leandro Lopez, who will make his first Double-A start after a strong stint at High-A Hickory. Opposing him will be Wichita right-hander C.J. Culpepper, who brings an impressive 1.62 ERA into the night but will be seeking his first decision at the Double-A level.
Riders Riding Momentum After Shutout
Frisco enters Thursday’s tilt with momentum after a dominant 3-0 victory on Wednesday night. The RoughRiders opened the game with energy and execution, scoring twice in the first inning on Sebastian Walcott’s two-run double. Walcott, one of the most exciting young bats in the Texas League, extended his hitting streak to seven games, raising his average to .300 during that span.
The Riders tacked on an insurance run in the sixth, capitalizing on Keyber Rodriguez’s savvy baserunning. After a single, Rodriguez swiped both second and third base before scoring on a Josh Hatcher RBI groundout, pushing the lead to 3-0.
On the mound, Frisco showcased depth and command. Starter Josh Stephan pitched 4.2 scoreless innings, giving way to a dominant bullpen performance. Ryan Lobus (2-3) picked up the win with a clean inning of relief, while Gerardo Carrillo sealed the deal with his second save of the season. The win marked Frisco’s fifth shutout of the year and their second in the last four games—proof that the pitching staff is beginning to gel.
Lopez Makes First Appearance at New Level
Thursday will mark a significant step in the professional career of Leandro Lopez, who is expected to make his RoughRiders debut. Lopez dazzled in High-A earlier this season, posting a sub-2.50 ERA and averaging over 10 strikeouts per nine innings. Known for his lively fastball and late-breaking slider, the 22-year-old Venezuelan prospect is looking to translate his success to the upper minors.
Lopez’s arrival offers the RoughRiders a potential midseason boost as they try to climb the Texas League standings. His ability to handle the jump in competition will be closely monitored by both Rangers development staff and fans.
Culpepper Quietly Dominating for Wind Surge
The Wind Surge counter with C.J. Culpepper, a right-hander who has been effective in limited action. Culpepper boasts a 1.62 ERA and has held opponents to a .190 batting average, but has yet to register a win or loss. He will aim to keep a Riders lineup in check that’s beginning to find some rhythm, especially in the middle third of the batting order with Walcott, Aaron Zavala, and Abimelec Ortiz producing consistent at-bats.
Wichita will be looking to bounce back after being held scoreless for just the second time in July. The Wind Surge were limited to just four hits Wednesday and will need more production from the likes of Kala’i Rosario and Gabriel Gonzalez, both of whom have homered in the series.
What’s at Stake
With both teams hovering near .500, the series remains pivotal in shaping the second half of their seasons. The RoughRiders are seeking their first series win since early July, while the Wind Surge aim to protect home field and stay within reach of the division-leading Springfield Cardinals.
Up Next
Following Thursday’s matchup, the series continues Friday with Game 4 of the six-game set. The Riders have not yet announced their starter, while Wichita is expected to send Marco Raya to the mound.
Fans can tune in to every pitch via the H-E-B Riders Baseball Network at RidersBaseball.com/Broadcast.
