STWF Sports | FRISCO, Texas | April 23, 2026 — The Frisco RoughRiders return to Riders Field on Thursday night searching for answers — and momentum — as they face the Tulsa Drillers in game three of a six-game series. First pitch is set for 6:35 p.m. CT, with right-hander Winston Santos scheduled to take the mound against Tulsa’s Patrick Copen.

For Frisco (8-9), the matchup presents an opportunity to halt a difficult stretch after being swept in Tuesday’s doubleheader. The RoughRiders were outscored 17-6 across the two games, including a 5-0 shutout loss and a 12-6 extra-inning defeat in which they surrendered a five-run lead. The results highlighted both the volatility and potential of a club that has shown flashes of dominance but has struggled to string together complete performances.

The pitching matchup adds intrigue to Thursday’s contest. Santos (0-0, 13.50 ERA) enters looking to rebound after a challenging start to the season, while Copen (2-0, 1.72 ERA) has been one of Tulsa’s most reliable arms early in the campaign. For Frisco, a strong outing from Santos will be critical in stabilizing a staff that has faced pressure in recent games, particularly in late-inning situations.

Offensively, the RoughRiders remain one of the most productive teams in Double-A despite recent setbacks. Through 17 games, Frisco leads the level in hits (170) while ranking near the top in batting average (.286), slugging percentage (.472), and OPS (.834). The lineup’s ability to generate consistent contact and power has kept the team competitive, even in losses.

Leading that charge is Marcus Lee Sang, who continues to deliver at the plate. Over his last seven games, the outfielder has posted a .458 average with multiple extra-base hits, showcasing both consistency and power. His ability to drive the ball has been a cornerstone of Frisco’s offensive identity.

Infielder Frainyer Chavez has also been a standout, reaching base in all 17 games this season while hitting .309 with five home runs and 11 RBIs. Chavez’s combination of patience and power has made him one of the most reliable hitters in the Texas League, and his recent surge has provided a spark for a lineup capable of explosive innings.

Yet for all the offensive production, execution remains the central theme for Frisco entering game three. The RoughRiders have been involved in numerous close contests, posting a 3-5 record in one-run games and going 0-4 in extra-inning matchups. Those numbers underscore the gap between potential and results — a gap the team will look to close as the series progresses.

Tulsa, meanwhile, has capitalized on its opportunities. The Drillers have demonstrated an ability to control games through a combination of timely hitting and effective pitching, particularly in high-leverage moments. Their comeback win in game two of the doubleheader exemplified that approach, turning a deficit into a decisive victory with sustained offensive pressure.

Historically, the matchup has favored Tulsa. Over the past five seasons, Frisco holds a 13-17 record against the Drillers, with Tulsa consistently finding success against the RoughRiders’ pitching staff. Reversing that trend will require a more complete performance from Frisco on both sides of the ball.

For the RoughRiders, Thursday’s game represents more than just another contest in a long season. It is an opportunity to reset, reestablish rhythm, and demonstrate the consistency needed to climb above the .500 mark.

The formula is clear: strong starting pitching, disciplined at-bats, and improved late-game execution. If those elements come together, Frisco has the talent to shift the momentum of the series.

As the homestand continues, the RoughRiders will look to turn early-season lessons into tangible results — beginning with a critical game three under the lights at Riders Field.