A glance back at the last ten years

This time ten years ago, the Frisco RoughRiders Inaugural season was just getting under way.  2012 was the 10th season of ‘Riders baseball, but 2013 marks ten full years in Frisco.  As we continue Opening Weekend at Dr Pepper Ballpark, we’d like to  take a small look at the past ten years.

Recently, while cleaning a storage area in the press box, we came across an April 1, 2003 Special Edition issue of The Dallas Morning News featuring Opening Day of the Frisco RoughRiders at Dr Pepper/Seven Up Ballpark.

Front page of the April 1, 2003 Dallas Morning News, Frisco RoughRiders Opening Day special edition

Much can change in ten years.  This time ten years ago, the US had been at war in Iraq for a little more than a month, occupying the majority of news coverage. In sports, A-Rod was playing his last season with the Rangers, and Don Nelson was still in Dallas as coach of the Mavs.

The Dallas Morning News cover, April 1, 2003

In their ten-year history, the RoughRiders organization and Dr Pepper Ballpark have had a number of changes and improvements added.  However, it is neat to take a look at the ballpark and at the team as they were ten years ago.  In 2003, Tim Ireland was the manager of the ‘Riders.  Since then, others have taken the role, including Darryl Kennedy (’05-’06) Dave Anderson (‘07), Scott Little (‘08), Mike Miccuci (’09) and our current manager, former Rangers’ third baseman Steve Buchele, who made his Frisco debut in 2010.

Dr Pepper /Seven Up Ballpark was renamed Dr Pepper Ballpark on March 31, 2006, and has held the name since.  Since 2003, many changes have been made to the ballpark itself with the addition and renovation of the concessions, scoreboard and lighting systems and other aspects.  Just prior to the 2013 season, the ballpark underwent a major improvement process on new concessions and playground areas.  Since its opening, Dr Pepper Ballpark has earned numerous recognition for its unique design, feel and fan amenities.

The ‘Riders 2003 pocket schedule

There have been 324 players to have played in the ‘Riders uniform, with 97 former RoughRiders making it to the big leagues.  Many big-name players have starred in Frisco in these ten years, and the RoughRiders have had many successful season and memorable highlights.    We look forward to another ten years of Frisco RoughRiders baseball.

-Ryan

Baseball term of the day: Through the Slot- A pitch that passes directly over home plate.