2012: Appeared in 26 games with one start. Posted a 2-2 mark with a 6.12 ERA. Fanned 38 in 42.2 innings. His 26 appearances were second on the team.

2011: Appeared in 18 games with three starts. Posted a 3-4 record with a 7.13 ERA. Fanned 29 in 35.1 innings. His 18 appearances led the team.

2010: Appeared in 16 games with one start. Posted a 2-2 record and a save with a 5.19 ERA. Fanned 15 in 26 innings. His 16 appearances were second on the team.

Prior to Shepherd: A 2006 graduate of Ocean City High School where he played baseball for Craig Mensinger. Also lettered in soccer. Played on CAL champion teams as a junior and senior. A transfer from Atlantic Cape Community College.

Personal: The son of James and Christine Nickles. Majoring in business. His cousin, Jeremy Sowers, pitched for the Cleveland Indians.