Fitzpatrick and Yada Returning in 2015
December 3, 2014 - West Coast League (WCL)
Yakima Valley Pippins News Release
YAKIMA, Wash. - As the 2015 roster continues to take shape, the Pippins have added two returners from the inaugural squad, signing left-handed pitchers Mitch Yada and Kelly Fitzpatrick to next summer's squad.
"As a coaching staff, we are super excited to welcome back Mitch and Kelly," said Pippins manager Marcus McKimmy. "Any time you can build around returners on any team, it should be a priority. When they happen to be talented left-handed pitchers with a proven track record for getting outs in the WCL, it's even better. Both are an integral part in building for another division title. I couldn't be happier to welcome both of them back to The Orchard."
Fitzpatrick, a sophomore at Yakima Valley Community College, was one of the go-to relievers out of the Pippins bullpen last summer. The southpaw saw time in 15 games, going 0-1 with a 5.17 ERA, and holding a 19-8 strikeout-to-walk ratio. He allowed earned runs in only four of his 15 outings with the Pippins.
"Kelly is a lefty we plan to use exclusively out of the bullpen again this summer," said McKimmy. "He is very comfortable in that role and is very efficient at getting both right and left handed hitters out. He also features an above-average strikeout per nine inning rate which is valuable in just about every situation."
After redshirting last year at Central Washington University, Yada will join the Wildcats on the field this spring after a strong summer with the Pippins last summer. Yada split time as a starter and reliever, going 2-0 with a 2.12 ERA in his 10 outings. The Moses Lake native transferred to CWU after two years at Wenatchee Valley Community College.
"Mitch, we intend to use in either a 'starter' or 'long-relief' role," said McKimmy. He is comfortable pitching in both spots and that flexibility just allows us to better load our pitching staff at both ends. His deception is some of the best I saw from the left side in the summer and I anticipate his arm strength and pitchability will be even better in 2015."
The 2014 East Division Champions are busy preparing for next season and want you to be involved. The 2015 season begins on June 5th, and season tickets are currently on sale as well as our full retail line at our offices at the State Fair Park. You can also purchase Pippins Gear online at www.pippinsbaseball.com . Call us at 509-575-HITS (4487) or email us at info@pippinsbaseball.com for more information regarding tickets, retail, or host families.
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West Coast League Stories from December 3, 2014
- Fitzpatrick and Yada Returning in 2015 - Yakima Valley Pippins
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