Chiefs Spotlight: Ryan Bitz

Ryan Bitz is a pitcher and infielder for the Mandan Chiefs. A recent high school graduate, Bitz has played baseball throughout his life, starting when he was about three years old. His inspiration to play baseball is rooted in a familiar thing: family.

“My dad played when he was younger, and my older brother played too,” Bitz said. “It was in my blood. I always knew I was going to play.”

Bitz explained his decision to play for the Chiefs. He placed great emphasis on his community and the sport itself.

“I love baseball and I love Mandan. We have such a great community here, so I wanted to continue helping the community. Mandan has great baseball talent, so I wanted to continue to help them.”

This is Bitz’s first year playing for the Chiefs. He previously played on the A’s, and he has always played baseball in Mandan. He shared how important baseball is in his life.

“It's my whole summer. It's been a big part of my life for all 18 years of it. It’s been a huge part of me, both mentally and physically, and I love it.”

Bitz also sees baseball fitting into his future, as well as the Chiefs team itself.

“ I love baseball. My kids are going to play baseball and I might coach them and it's always going to be a part of me. I'm going to come back to Chiefs games when I'm older. I love Mandan, and I love baseball.”