Morgantown High outfielder Bean Nipper announces commitment to Marshall University
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MORGANTOWN – Morgantown High School class of 2027 outfielder Ryan "Bean" Nipper will head to Huntington after the conclusion of his senior year, announcing his commitment to Marshall University on Monday evening.
"I'm excited and blessed to announce my commitment to Marshall University," Nipper said via his social media. "Thank you to my family for all of the sacrifices, support, and encouragement over the years that helped me get to this point. Thank you to all of my coaches and teammates throughout my baseball journey for pushing me to become the player and person I am today. Lastly, thank you to Coach (Greg) Beals and the entire Marshall coaching staff for giving me this incredible opportunity. Go Herd!"
Nipper enjoyed a breakout season for the Mohigans in 2026 as a junior, batting .330 with 31 hits, 18 RBIs, and 32 runs scored. He hit seven doubles, a triple, and a home run while also drawing 19 walks. He also proved to be a reliable glove in the outfield as MHS made another appearance in the Class AAAA state title game.
"I met with Coach Beals and the staff and just felt really comfortable with them," Nipper said. "I love the facilities there and being able to play high-level baseball relatively close to home is nice too. I've had certain goals since a young age and one of them was to play Division I baseball. This is a great opportunity that I won't take lightly."
In a 16-9 victory over Buckhannon-Upshur on May 5, Nipper was 3 for 3 with a double, three runs scored, and an RBI. He also was a bright spot in the MHS lineup during the 2026 state tournament.
"I've been able to play varsity baseball since I was a freshman and have learned so many things that I would've never begun to think of without Coach (Pat) Sherald. Things like picking up opponents’ tendencies and playing the game the right way."
Nipper says committing to Marshall before his senior year of school and baseball motivates him even more to perform.
"There's still so much work to do," he said. "It does take pressure off of my shoulders knowing that there's a place for me to play college baseball, but my main focus is still helping my team win a state championship. We have some unfinished business to take care of after this season."
Sherald says Nipper has what it takes to make the most of the opportunity that comes with joining a Division I baseball program.
"Bean is the type of player every program wants in its clubhouse," Sherald said. "He's a relentless worker, an outstanding teammate, and someone who consistently puts the team first. He has elite speed and athleticism, and his best baseball is ahead of him. Marshall is a great fit for him, and he is joining a program that will challenge him and help him grow on and off the field. He also comes from a great family that has helped shape who he is today."