Nippert Makes Splashy Return

Former West Virginia University pitcher Dustin Nippert threw seven strong innings in relief for the Texas Rangers in his return to the majors.

The Wheeling, W.Va., native allowed only one run on four hits in seven innings pitched during the Rangers’ 9-6 loss to the Los Angeles Angels.

Nippert, who played for the Mountaineers in 2002 after transferring from Ohio Valley College, started the season with the Rangers before being sent down to Triple A Oklahoma on a medical rehab stint after suffering a blister on his right foot.

The 27-year-old righthander is also coming off a seven-inning no-hitter against the Omaha Royals on June 29. He became the second pitcher in the Pacific Coast League to toss a no-hitter this season, and is the first to accomplish the feat for the RedHawks since Rick Helling’s perfect game on Aug. 13, 1996.

“We are extremely proud of Dustin,” said WVU Head Coach Greg Van Zant. “It’s a real honor to play professional baseball and we wish him the best. It says a lot about our program that players can come in here and develop into Major League Baseball players.”