WICHITA, Kansas (July 26, 2025) — Sebastian Walcott’s 11th home run of the season wasn’t enough to lift the Frisco RoughRiders on Saturday night, as the club dropped a narrow 3-2 decision to the Wichita Wind Surge at Equity Bank Park. Despite strong efforts from Walcott, Alejandro Osuna, and starting pitcher Jose Corniell, the Riders couldn’t overcome defensive miscues and missed offensive opportunities down the stretch.

With the loss, Frisco falls to 9-17 in the second half and 47-47 overall. Wichita, meanwhile, improves to 14-12 in the second half and 51-44 on the year, clinching the six-game series with one game left to play.

Wichita Strikes Early with Help from Frisco’s Defense

The Wind Surge took advantage of sloppy fielding in the bottom of the third inning to open the scoring. After Ben Ross reached base, Kala’i Rosario grounded into what could have been a routine play, but a fielding error allowed Ross to score, handing Wichita a 1-0 lead. It was the first of two unearned runs surrendered by Frisco on the night, both proving costly in a game ultimately decided by a single run.

Wichita added to their lead in the fifth when top prospect Walker Jenkins delivered a sacrifice fly to bring home Culpepper, making it 2-0. Corniell, who was making just his second Double-A appearance, pitched effectively despite the defensive lapses. He finished with one unearned run allowed, showcasing poise and command beyond his years.

Walcott Powers Up Again

Frisco cut into the deficit in the top of the seventh when Sebastian Walcott sent a solo shot over the left-field fence, trimming the lead to 2-1. The 20-year-old shortstop continues to be one of the hottest bats in the Riders’ lineup, now with 11 homers on the season, matching his total from 2024 in 37 fewer games.

Walcott’s power surge has been a bright spot for Frisco during a difficult road swing, as he continues to establish himself as a potential long-term cornerstone for the Texas Rangers’ farm system.

Wind Surge Capitalize on Another Error

Wichita responded immediately in the bottom of the seventh. After Kaelen Culpepper reached and stole third base, Frisco’s attempt to catch him went awry, allowing him to score on a throwing error and push the lead to 3-1.

It was the second unearned run allowed by the Riders in the game and underscored a theme that has plagued the club throughout the series: defensive miscues in critical moments.

Frisco Rallies Late, But Falls Short

In the top of the eighth, Frisco chipped away again. Alejandro Osuna—returning to form after a stint with Triple-A Round Rock—roped an RBI single to score Josh Hatcher, narrowing the deficit to 3-2. Osuna’s timely hitting has provided a steadying presence in the middle of the order.

The RoughRiders nearly tied the game in the ninth when Hatcher singled with one out, putting the go-ahead run at the plate. However, Wind Surge reliever Mike Paredes locked in, striking out Aaron Zavala to close the door and record a three-inning save—his third of the season.

Game Notes:

• Jose Corniell (0-1) was the hard-luck loser, allowing just one unearned run across four innings in his second Double-A appearance.

• Joel Cesar (3-3) earned the win for Wichita with 1.2 innings of scoreless relief.

• Cam Cauley notched his 26th multi-hit game of the season, raising his July batting average to .295.

• Frisco’s defense has now committed four errors in the last three games.

What’s Next:

The series wraps up Sunday afternoon with first pitch scheduled for 1:05 p.m. CT. Frisco sends RHP Ben Anderson (4-4, 4.48 ERA) to the mound looking to salvage a split, while Wichita counters with RHP Darren Bowen (2-5, 5.22 ERA).

Catch all the action live on the H-E-B Riders Baseball Network by visiting RidersBaseball.com/Broadcast. For tickets and more team news, head to RidersBaseball.com.