Strong Work Ethic Is Selling Point For 4.0 Student Bishop

Boden Bishop OF / LHP / White Lake Lakeland, MI / 2026

HIGHLAND - “I think my work ethic sets me apart from other people.”

That is what Boden Bishop hopes college coaches understand about him.

A 4.0 student at White Lake Lakeland High School, the third-rated 2026 outfielder in Michigan has his sights set on specific ideas when it comes to picking a college.

“Academics are important to me,” Bishop explained. “I’m looking for a place with engineering, accounting or business. As far as baseball for me, when I’m being pushed to the max the greatest, that is when I succeed.

“I prefer an experienced coach,” the 17-year-old added. “I think you can learn more and trust him more. The size of the school doesn’t matter, but I’d prefer a larger school.”

A lifelong Michigan fan, where his brother is a student, is one place that Bishop would consider if the opportunity presented itself. For now, the only visit and offer is from Central Michigan, but it was “not the best fit for me” according to Bishop. Other schools that have reached out include Western Michigan, Xavier, Yale, Northwestern, Oakland and Western Kentucky.

“I’m not definitive on a commitment right now,” Bishop said. “When the opportunity fits best.”

To date, the recruiting process has been enjoyable.

“Every kid hopes that every college reaches out, but that’s not going to happen,” Bishop explained. “I think my recruitment is going exactly as it should be for me and I’m excited for the future and what’s in store.

“I’m not nervous, I just trust in God’s plan,” Bishop added. “Whatever happens, it happens for a reason.”

The 16th-ranked junior in Michigan has worked hard in getting noticed by college coaches.

“I went to a bunch of Prep Baseball events with my team,” Bishop related. “Prep Baseball helped me out a lot.”

There is more that has been done to get recognition.

“Before, in the middle and at the end of last season I emailed a bunch of coaches, every college I’m interested in,” Bishop noted. “I’ve been doing that for a year now.”

The 5-10 180-pound southpaw, who hits from the left side of the plate, has also focused on improving his game.

“I’ve been working on my five tools,” Bishop said. “The biggest thing I’m working on is arm strength. One thing I’ve been gifted with is my baseball IQ, but I’m still working on that as well.”

Bishop is of the belief he can be a valuable piece to any college roster.

“I will work harder than anyone else, and study harder than anyone else,” Bishop pointed out. “I will be that guy.”

Aspirations to reach the next level in the sport have existed for some time.

“It’s been a dream since I picked up a bat to go pro,” Bishop related. “I’ve always had high hopes for myself.”

That hasn’t changed as the recruiting process continues.

“I’m confident in my abilities and think I’ll catch a lot of coaches by surprise,” Bishop concluded. “I’m thinking by the end of high school baseball season or a little after that I’m hoping to commit, unless I find a college or coach I really love earlier. Then I’m committing. If not, late spring or early summer is my timeframe for a commitment.”