MITCHELL, S.D. — In a thrilling display of athletic prowess, the Valley City State University Vikings triumphed over the Dakota Wesleyan University Tigers with impressive performances on February 8, 2026. The doubleheader, forming part of a four-game weekend series, showcased the tenacity and skill of both squads, with South Dakota’s enthusiasm for baseball reaching fever pitch.
Cody Wielgosh
The scenic city of Mitchell, nestled in the heart of South Dakota, provided the perfect backdrop for the intense baseball series, drawing fans not just from Dakota Wesleyan University but from across the state. The atmosphere was electric, with the locals rallying behind their home team, the Tigers, who have been a significant part of the community fabric.
Game 1 saw Valley City State’s star pitcher, Grady Shipman, in top form as he led the Vikings to a nail-biting 1-0 victory. Shipman, a sophomore hailed for his remarkable talent, exhibited his dexterity on the mound by pitching a complete game shutout. Allowing only a single hit and striking out nine batters, Shipman’s performance was a masterclass in precision and control.
Alexis Velasco, with a pivotal home run in the sixth inning, provided the lone score that secured the Vikings’ win in Game 1. The tension was palpable as Shipman completed his impressive performance with no room for error. This victory is a testament to the Vikings’ strategic play and resilience.
As the sun shone brightly over South Dakota’s plains, Game 2 unfolded with the Vikings carrying forward their winning momentum, securing a 6-3 victory against the Tigers. The Vikings’ bullpen, led by reliever Jarrett Faue, proved crucial in clinching the game. Faue’s 4 2/3 innings of one-hit, shutout relief displayed his composure and effectiveness under pressure.
Hunter Logan
Cody Wielgosh stood out offensively in Game 2, going 2 for 2 with two runs scored and an RBI, demonstrating his reliability as a key player in the lineup. Contributions from Hunter Logan and Brady Papineau, who both had two hits and drove in runs, bolstered the Vikings’ superiority on the field.
The local fans, although disheartened by Dakota Wesleyan’s loss, appreciated the sportsmanship and high level of competition. This series highlighted South Dakota’s growing reputation as a nurturing ground for budding baseball talents. Dakota Wesleyan’s Mason Riley captivated the crowd with a home run in the third inning of Game 2, a reminder of the Tigers’ fighting spirit.
As the series concluded, the Vikings left with a 5-4 season record, readying themselves for their next challenge against Mount Marty University in Yankton, South Dakota. The forthcoming series, starting February 21, promises to be another exhilarating chapter in South Dakota’s baseball saga.
Despite the Tigers’ setbacks, Dakota Wesleyan remains a strong presence in South Dakota’s sporting landscape. Their determination and youthful vigor are sure to lead them to future victories, reinforcing the state’s standing in collegiate baseball circuits.
The synergy between these teams and their fans encapsulates the vibrant sporting culture found in South Dakota, where athletic excellence and community pride go hand in hand.