FRISCO, Texas (July 19, 2025) — The Frisco RoughRiders are back under the lights at Riders Field on Saturday night as they square off with the Corpus Christi Hooks for the second game of a three-game weekend set. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 p.m., with all eyes on Frisco right-hander Jose Corniell, who is set to make his highly anticipated first start of the series after an impressive Double-A debut out of the bullpen earlier this week.

The RoughRiders (7-12, 45-42) are looking to bounce back after falling 7-3 in 10 innings during Friday night’s opener. Despite a strong showing from slugger Abimelec Ortiz, who homered and drove in two runs, a four-run surge by the Hooks in extra innings sealed the loss for Frisco. Still, the RoughRiders have fared well against their in-state rivals this season, entering Saturday’s matchup with an 8-7 record against Corpus Christi, including a 4-5 mark at home.

Spotlight on the Starter

All eyes will be on Jose Corniell (0-0, -.–) as he makes his first official start since being promoted to Double-A. The 22-year-old right-hander dazzled in his debut, tossing two no-hit innings earlier this week and flashing the command and poise that made him one of the most promising arms in the Rangers’ system. Known for his deceptive delivery and fastball that touches the mid-90s, Corniell has a chance to make an immediate impact in the RoughRiders’ rotation, especially as Frisco looks to find consistency on the mound in the second half of the season.

Hooks Coming In Hot

The Corpus Christi Hooks (8-11, 30-57) are riding a wave of momentum after Friday’s extra-inning win. Powered by a late-game offensive explosion that featured a clutch three-run double from Luis Baez, the Astros’ Double-A affiliate showed its ability to strike late and capitalize on runners in scoring position.

Baez and Pascanel Ferreras, who also delivered an RBI double in the 10th, remain key bats to watch in the Hooks’ order. Corpus Christi’s pitching staff has also shown flashes of dominance, with the bullpen combining to shut down the RoughRiders in the final innings of the series opener.

Riders’ Offensive Firepower

Offensively, the RoughRiders continue to be led by Abimelec Ortiz, whose hot bat has scorched Hooks pitching all season long. Ortiz enters Saturday’s contest with a .997 OPS against Corpus Christi, launching four home runs and providing consistent run production in the heart of the order. With 13 homers on the season, Ortiz is now tied for third in the Texas League and is among the most dangerous hitters in the league.

Sebastian Walcott has also made his presence felt against the Hooks, slugging four of his nine home runs this season against Corpus pitching. The young shortstop has proven to be a spark plug in Frisco’s lineup, offering both power and timely hitting.

What’s at Stake

As the second half of the Texas League season unfolds, each matchup carries increased weight in the playoff race. For Frisco, a win on Saturday would even the series and give them a chance to secure a series victory in Sunday’s rubber match. For the Hooks, another win would provide a rare series triumph on the road and offer a confidence boost for one of the Texas League’s youngest rosters.

Final Outlook

With Corniell making his first start and Ortiz swinging a hot bat, the RoughRiders have the tools to turn the tide on Saturday night. The key will be early run support and continued bullpen efficiency to back the rookie starter. Fans can expect an exciting blend of top prospect performances and division rivalry intensity as Frisco looks to defend its home turf.

First pitch is set for 7:05 p.m. at Riders Field, with plenty on the line as the Riders aim to claw their way back toward .500 in the second half.