Pippins Welcome Two Key Pieces Back Into the Fold

When the Pipps return in June, Bishop, Shipman are coming with them

YAKIMA, Wash. – Two friendly faces are making their way back to The Orchard in June. Right-handed pitcher Dylan Bishop (Whitworth College) from Selah and infielder Spencer Shipman (Yakima Valley College) will return for their third and second seasons, respectively.

Bishop posted a 6-1 record with a 3.88 ERA in the summer of 2021 in Yakima. He was slated to return in 2022, but an off-season injury sidelined him for the entire spring and summer seasons. Meanwhile, Shipman batted .277 and was a mainstay in the Pippins lineup throughout 2022.

Head coach Kyle Krustangel admires what both players do for his squad both on and off the diamond.

“These guys are ultra-competitors,” Krustangel said. “When the scoreboard is on, they want to compete, and that rubs off on the rest of the group.

“Dylan is a workhorse who always wants the ball in his hand on the mound, whether it be starting or closing,” the Pippins skipper continued. “Spencer is the type of guy you need around the clubhouse when the dog days of summer hit. “he keeps it light and fun and is a five-tool player on the field as well. Both guys are special individuals in all aspects, and we are excited to have both back.”

Bishop is entering his fourth collegiate season. After a shortened 2020 campaign due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the former state champion at Selah High School posted a 4-1 record with a 3.81 ERA at Whitworth and led the Pirates in innings pitched (56.2). Then, missed the entirety of the 2022 season due to a torn ACL.

Bishop, who has been rehabbing for 13 months, is eager to be back in the fold for the Pippins in 2023.

“When Jeff (Garretson, Pippins GM) gave me that call, I couldn’t stop talking about it. It’s some of the most fun I’ve ever had playing baseball (for the Pippins) that summer. To get that opportunity one more time, regardless of my role, I’m happy to be there and it’s going to be a great time.”

Shipman, a redshirt sophomore, is starting a new chapter with YVC after transferring from Portland University. In 38 games, including playoffs, for the Pippins last season, Shipman batted .277 with 4 home runs and 28 RBIs, and provided some help on the mound as well. The former West Valley High of Spokane standout has big aspirations this summer not just for himself, but for the entire roster.

“I really want to bring a championship back to the Pippins this summer, so similar to my approach from last year, I just want to go out there and have fun each and every day, giving it my all, no matter what my role is.”

A common goal for everyone in Yakima will be bringing the franchise that illustrious first WCL title. The road for that championship begins in Longview, Wash., for a three-game tilt with the Cowlitz Black Bears starting on June 2. The Pippins open their home season June 6 against the Corvallis Knights.

By Logan Peter

February 14, 2023