NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (August 5, 2025)— After closing out a hard-fought six-game set with San Antonio, the Frisco RoughRiders hit the road Tuesday to open a crucial series against the Arkansas Travelers at Dickey-Stephens Park. First pitch is scheduled for 6:35 p.m. CST, as Frisco looks to bounce back from a shutout loss and regain footing in the Texas League standings.

The RoughRiders (12-21 in the second half, 50-51 overall) were blanked 4-0 by the Missions on Sunday night at Riders Field. San Antonio struck early with a solo homer from Romeo Sanabria and capitalized on a pair of miscues to pull away late. Despite the loss, Frisco split the six-game series 3-3.

Meanwhile, the Travelers (18-15, 53-49 overall) enter the series on a strong note, winning four of their last six games to climb the South Division standings. Arkansas has thrived behind timely hitting and a pitching staff that has been effective in limiting damage.

RoughRiders Seek Offensive Spark

The RoughRiders’ offense has shown flashes of brilliance throughout the season but struggled for consistency in their most recent series. In Sunday’s finale, Sebastian Walcott provided a lone bright spot, recording three hits for his fourth three-hit game of the year. At just 18 years old, Walcott continues to establish himself as one of the Texas Rangers’ top prospects, hitting for average and displaying impressive maturity at the plate.

Veteran infielder Keith Jones II also delivered in key moments over the weekend, including an RBI single and a late double in Saturday’s loss. His production, along with the continued contributions from catcher Ian Moller, will be critical for Frisco as they face one of the league’s stingier pitching staffs.

Arkansas’ Home Advantage

The Travelers have built momentum at home, fueled by a balanced attack on both sides of the ball. Arkansas features a lineup anchored by power threats capable of putting pressure on opposing pitchers. Their ability to capitalize with runners in scoring position has been a key factor in their winning stretch.

Defensively, Arkansas has leaned on a pitching staff that ranks among the league’s most reliable in minimizing big innings. With the RoughRiders’ offense searching for rhythm, the Travelers will look to take advantage of any missed opportunities.

Pitching Storylines

Frisco’s starting rotation has been a strength despite the recent struggles at the plate. Josh Stephan, who took the mound Sunday, allowed two runs in 3.2 innings and showed flashes of his strikeout stuff, though control issues elevated his pitch count. The Riders’ bullpen, led by Jackson Kelley, has also been solid. Kelley has logged scoreless outings in five of his last six appearances, providing stability in high-leverage spots.

Arkansas is expected to counter with a staff that thrives on efficiency, mixing strike-throwing starters with a deep bullpen that has closed the door late in games.

Keys to the Game

• Early Offense for Frisco: The RoughRiders have fallen behind early in recent games. Scoring first could ease pressure and allow their pitching staff to settle in.

• Contain Arkansas’ Power: The Travelers can change games with one swing. Limiting long balls will be crucial for Frisco’s chances.

• Keep Walcott Rolling: The young shortstop has become a spark plug at the top of the order. If he sets the tone early, the RoughRiders could break through against Arkansas’ arms.

What’s at Stake

With the second half of the Texas League season heating up, both clubs are fighting to stay within striking distance of the division lead. For Frisco, the series offers a chance to get back above .500 overall and reclaim momentum heading into a pivotal August stretch. Arkansas, meanwhile, will look to strengthen its hold on a playoff spot by defending its home turf.

First pitch Tuesday is set for 6:35 p.m. CST at Dickey-Stephens Park, where the RoughRiders aim to start their road trip on a winning note.