Behind the Bases: The Frisco Rough Riders Baseball Story
- William Taylor
- Oct 16
- 4 min read
Double-A Affiliate of the Texas Rangers Continues to Grow the Game Locally
The Frisco RoughRiders have been a staple in the community since 2003, bringing affordable family entertainment and professional baseball to North Texas. As the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers, the RoughRiders continue to provide a link between future major league stars and the Frisco community.
With Riders Field seating more than 10,000 fans, the team has become one of the most popular minor league franchises in the country. Beyond baseball, the Frisco RoughRiders combine local pride, player development, and family-focused fun.
Origin of The Frisco RoughRiders
The RoughRiders were established in 2003 after the Texas League’s Shreveport SwampDragons were purchased and relocated to Frisco. Their new home, then called Dr Pepper Ballpark, opened the same year. The name RoughRiders honors Theodore Roosevelt’s 1st U.S. Volunteer Cavalry Regiment from the Spanish–American War.
The team immediately made their impression. Their inaugural home game sold out with more than 10,000 fans. That same year, the RoughRiders advanced to the Texas League finals and drew more than 675,000 fans, ranking among the top teams in all of Minor League Baseball attendance.
Just a year later, in 2004, Frisco captured its first Texas League championship. They added a second title in 2022. Over the years, the club has produced playoff runs, memorable performances, and a steady stream of talent for the Texas Rangers.
Championships and Memorable Moments
Frisco has reached the postseason seven times, winning five division titles and two league championships. Fans still remember the perfect game pitched in 2005 by A.J. Murray, Steve Karsay, and Scott Feldman against the Corpus Christi Hooks.
In 2012, top prospect Jurickson Profar gained national attention with a 50-game on-base streak, the longest in Minor League Baseball that year. Other big names who wore a RoughRiders uniform before reaching the majors include Elvis Andrus, Chris Davis, Ian Kinsler, Joey Gallo, and Martín Pérez.
Impact on the Frisco Community
The RoughRiders have helped shape Frisco’s reputation as a sports destination. Riders Field is centrally located and designed with families in mind. The ballpark features entertainment beyond the game itself, including theme nights, kids’ activities, and post-game fireworks.
For families, affordability is key. Tickets, food, and parking remain more accessible compared to major league games, making RoughRiders outings a popular option. For local businesses, partnerships with the team provide visibility to thousands of fans throughout the season.
The team also connects with residents through school visits, community service, and youth programs. Their mascots — Deuce, Daisy, Ted E Bear, and Bull Moose — are familiar faces at both games and community events.
Development for the Texas Rangers
As a Double-A affiliate, the RoughRiders play a critical role in developing talent for the Texas Rangers. Double-A is often considered the level where prospects face the most important test of their careers. Players who succeed in Frisco are often just a step or two from the major leagues. Many players who contributed at the big-league level first honed their skills in Frisco. For Rangers fans, following the RoughRiders provides a chance to see tomorrow’s stars today.
Future Plans: How the Team is Building on Its Success
The RoughRiders’ 2024 season was one of the best in franchise history, finishing with an 84–54 record under Manager Carlos Cardoza. Although the team fell in the first round of the playoffs, the strong season reinforced Frisco’s role as one of the premier stops in minor league baseball.
As the Rangers continue to develop young talent, Frisco fans can expect Riders Field to showcase the next wave of major leaguers. The team’s combination of history, family-friendly entertainment, and strong ties to the community ensures that the RoughRiders will remain a cornerstone of Frisco life.
Last Inning
For more than 20 years, the Frisco RoughRiders have offered fans in North Texas a chance to enjoy professional baseball in a local, affordable setting. With two championships, a growing list of alumni in the majors, and a deep connection to the community, the RoughRiders continue to prove why Frisco is one of the best places for America’s pastime.
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