LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (August 10, 2025) – Dominant pitching and an early offensive spark lifted the Frisco RoughRiders to a 2-0 victory over the Arkansas Travelers on Sunday afternoon at Dickey-Stephens Park. With the win, Frisco (16-23, 54-53) secured its first series triumph of the second half, taking four of six games from Arkansas (20-19, 55-53).
The Riders wasted no time grabbing control of the contest, striking twice in the opening frame against Travelers starter Michael Morales (2-6). Keyber Rodriguez opened the scoring with an RBI single that plated Cam Cauley, and moments later, Aaron Zavala scampered home from third on a balk to make it 2-0.
That was all the offense Frisco would need thanks to a masterful Double-A debut from right-hander Jose Gonzalez (1-0). The 22-year-old worked five shutout innings, scattering just three hits while striking out three and issuing one walk. Gonzalez showcased impressive poise, consistently working ahead in counts and inducing weak contact to keep the Travelers off balance.
From there, the bullpen slammed the door. Larson Kindreich delivered two scoreless innings in relief, stranding a runner in each frame. In the eighth, Jackson Kelley escaped a jam by leaving two Arkansas runners on base, preserving the two-run cushion. Bryan Magdaleno then sealed the win with a flawless ninth inning, retiring the side in order for his second save of the season.
Offensively, Frisco was limited to six hits, with Frainyer Chavez leading the way in his third consecutive start. The second baseman went 2-for-4, recording the only multi-hit performance for the Riders.
Pitching Excellence Continues
Sunday’s shutout was Frisco’s seventh of the season, tying them for fourth in the Texas League. Over the last two games, RoughRiders starters have combined for nine scoreless innings, with Gonzalez following Jose Corniell’s four-inning gem earlier in the series.
The pitching staff’s recent success comes at a crucial time, as Frisco seeks to build momentum in the tight South Division race.
Series Takeaways
The series win over Arkansas marks a turning point for Frisco, which had not captured a set victory since the start of the second half. Solid bullpen performances and clutch hitting in key moments helped the Riders edge a Travelers team that entered the week with the third-best record in the division.
Frisco’s ability to protect narrow leads proved pivotal in the series, with two of their four victories decided by two runs or fewer.
Looking Ahead
After a well-earned day off on Monday, the RoughRiders return home to Riders Field for a six-game homestand against the Midland RockHounds (Oakland Athletics affiliate). First pitch for Tuesday’s series opener is set for 7:05 p.m. CT.
Fans can catch every pitch on the H-E-B Riders Baseball Network at RidersBaseball.com/Broadcast.
With a fresh series win in their pocket and their pitching staff firing on all cylinders, the RoughRiders will aim to carry their momentum into the upcoming homestand — and continue their climb up the Texas League standings.
