AMARILLO, Texas (July 10, 2025) — The Frisco RoughRiders (43-39) return to action Thursday night for the third game of a six-game series against the Amarillo Sod Poodles (40-43), with first pitch set for 7:05 p.m. at HODGETOWN. After dropping a tightly contested 5-3 game on Wednesday night, Frisco will hand the ball to right-hander Josh Stephan (5-4, 5.86 ERA) in hopes of regaining control of the series. Amarillo counters with Roman Angelo (1-8, 6.01 ERA) as both teams seek traction in a crowded Texas League standings race. This matchup is crucial as both teams are looking to improve their positions in the league. The RoughRiders have shown resilience throughout the season and will look to capitalize on opportunities to climb higher in the standings, making this game a key moment in their campaign.

The RoughRiders’ Path to Success

The RoughRiders enter the matchup having lost a late-inning lead in the previous contest. A two-run homer from Abimelec Ortiz in the fourth inning put Frisco ahead early, and Cam Cauley’s solo blast in the sixth briefly restored the advantage after Amarillo tied the game. However, the momentum shifted dramatically in the eighth inning when Ivan Melendez launched a go-ahead three-run homer to lift Amarillo to a 5-3 victory. The loss was especially tough for the RoughRiders, as they had fought hard to maintain their lead and had opportunities to extend it. Learning from this defeat will be vital as they prepare to take the field again.

Despite the loss, there were bright spots for the RoughRiders. Daniel Missaki delivered a stellar start, striking out seven and allowing just two hits across four shutout innings. The right-hander showcased sharp command and poise, continuing to build consistency after a rocky start to his campaign. Missaki’s performance is a testament to his hard work and dedication, and his ability to bounce back from earlier struggles will be essential for the RoughRiders as they look to solidify their starting rotation.

Offensively, Ortiz remained a force in the heart of the order. His two-run homer marked his 11th of the season and seventh at HODGETOWN since 2024—more than any visiting player in that stretch. Cauley’s deep drive was his ninth of the season and further cemented his place as one of the top extra-base hit producers in the Texas League. The contribution of these players is pivotal as the RoughRiders aim to generate consistent offensive output and capitalize on scoring opportunities during crucial moments in games.

However, Josh Mollerus (1-1) was tagged with the loss after surrendering the Melendez home run in the eighth, a moment that flipped the momentum back in Amarillo’s favor. Zane Russell shut the door in the ninth to earn the save, while Jhosmer Alvarez (3-2) picked up the win with two clean innings of relief. The situation highlights the volatility of bullpens and the need for the RoughRiders to find reliable arms to support their starters, particularly in high-pressure situations.

Tonight’s starting pitchers offer an intriguing matchup. Stephan, the 23-year-old right-hander for Frisco, will look to steady a rotation that has been up and down in recent weeks. He’s struck out 70 over 66.2 innings but has struggled with consistency, especially in early innings. Stephan’s ability to limit damage and keep the ball in the yard will be crucial against a Sod Poodles lineup that has shown recent pop. His focus should be on maintaining composure and executing pitches effectively to navigate through the heart of the Amarillo order.

Angelo, meanwhile, has had a tough season for Amarillo, entering the contest with a 1-8 record and a 6.01 ERA. The 24-year-old has been vulnerable to big innings, and his command has been erratic, as evidenced by 29 walks over 67.1 innings. However, he has shown flashes of potential, particularly when working ahead in the count. His ability to keep hitters off balance will be essential if he aims to turn his season around and give the Sod Poodles a reliable option on the mound.

The game could hinge on bullpen performance, especially after both teams taxed their relievers in the previous two games. Frisco’s bullpen has generally been a strength, but late-inning lapses have haunted them recently. Offensively, the Riders will rely on consistent producers like Ortiz, Cauley, and catcher Ian Moller, who’s hitting nearly .400 over his last dozen games. The importance of these key players cannot be overstated as the RoughRiders look to secure a win and regain momentum in the series.

What to Watch: As the game approaches, fans are eager to see how the teams will respond to the previous matchup’s intensity. Will the RoughRiders manage to close the gap in the standings and secure a win?

• Can Stephan deliver a quality start and give Frisco’s bullpen a breather? This question looms large as the RoughRiders look to rediscover their winning ways and build upon the foundation laid by Missaki’s strong outing.

• Will Frisco’s power bats exploit Angelo’s tendency to allow extra-base hits? This could be a significant factor in determining the outcome of the game, as the RoughRiders aim to capitalize on every opportunity to score runs.

• Can the Riders hold a late lead after Wednesday’s eighth-inning letdown? Maintaining focus and composure will be crucial for the RoughRiders if they hope to pull out a victory.

With the series tied at one game apiece, tonight’s contest holds added significance. A win would not only restore Frisco’s momentum but also keep them in the thick of the second-half playoff race in the Texas League South Division. The stakes are high as both teams vie for supremacy. First pitch from Amarillo is set for 7:05 p.m. CT. All eyes will be on the RoughRiders as they look to harness their talent and experience to navigate through this challenging series.