Kumar Rocker’s highly anticipated Double-A debut for the Frisco RoughRiders did not disappoint. His dominant performance was witnessed by 9,151 fans, including GM Chris Young at Riders Field.
Rocker is considered by MLB Pipeline to be the Rangers’ top pitching prospect in the farm and he basically showcased that.
Rocker’s performance was nothing short of dominant. Over three innings, he allowed just one hit, struck out four batters, and induced three groundouts and one flyout.
His fastball, clocked at 99 MPH, was electric and kept the Tulsa Drillers hitters off balance throughout his outing.
Kumar Rocker’s Line:
- 3 IP
- 1 H
- 4 SO
- 3 groundouts
- 1 flyout
- 37 pitches, 26 strikes
Josh Jung starts rehab assignment in Frisco
The crowd was buzzing not only for Rocker but also for the return of Josh Jung, who was on a rehab assignment.
The Rangers are desperate for Jung’s bat back in the lineup, and fans showed their excitement with a big cheer during player introductions.
Jung went 1-for-3, with his hit being one of the highlights for the fans. His strikeout came on a check swing but he went around.
Josh Jung’s line at the plate:
- 1-for-3
- 1 hit
- 1 strikeout on a checked swing
Cody Bradford came in out of the pen
Adding to the excitement was LHP Cody Bradford, who also delivered a solid performance on the mound. Like Josh Jung, he’s also on a rehab assignment. There is no question that he’ll be used out of the bullpen once he back with the Rangers.
Bradford’s fastball reached 92 MPH, and he pitched 2.2 innings, allowing just one hit and striking out two.
Cody Bradford’s Line:
- 2.2 IP
- 1 H
- 2 SO
- 34 pitches, 20 strikes
The game itself was a pitchers’ duel, with both teams scoreless until the top of the 9th inning.
The Tulsa Drillers managed to take the lead on a home run by Dalton Rushing, his 12th of the season, reported to be 369 feet or so, giving the Drillers a 1-0 lead. They added another run to secure the victory.
Overall, the game was a blast and was a testament to the talent and excitement within the Texas Rangers’ farm system. The presence of key Rangers personnel, including Chris Young and Kip Fagg, underscored that.
The game-time temperature was a comfortable 86 degrees, making for a perfect night of baseball.
Even though the final score wasn’t what we wanted, fans left Riders Field with a good impression of Kumar Rocker.
Post-game notes
Kumar Rocker spoke with media after the game and praised his catcher, Cooper Johnson, who also caught him during his time in Hickory.
Josh Jung feels good health-wise and will be DH’ing tonight.
