Wingate University Athletics

2009: Tyler Almond had a productive junior campaign for the Bulldogs. He led the team in wins (4), innings pitched (74), strikeouts (69) and starts (13). He was third on the squad in earned run average, opponents’ batting average and appearances. He made 10 starts against conference opponents in 2009. Almond ended with a 4-4 record. 

2008: Almond started 11 games during the 2008 season, going 4-3 while ranking second on the team with a 3.00 ERA and 47 strikeouts. He allowed one earned run in five innings while striking out five to get the win against St. Rose. Almond gave up just one run on four hits in six innings to get the win against Millersville while striking out five. He went seven innings against LMU, allowing two runs on six hits while striking out six in the win. He went 6.2 innings against Carson-Newman without allowing an earned run. Almond got the win against Newberry, going eight innings while allowing two earned runs on five hits and striking out a season-high seven.

2007: Almond led the Bulldogs in 2007 with a 3.17 ERA, two complete games, one shutout, 55 strikeouts and 82 1/3 innings pitched. Almond had a 5-3 overall record, 3-2 in SAC contests. In addition, Almond’s ERA was 2.63 with 32 strikeouts in 51 1/3 innings in SAC play. The freshman from West Stanly HS tossed a shutout victory at Mars Hill College, allowing only six hits and striking out four at hitter-friendly Henderson Field. Almond pitched 13 2/3 consecutive scoreless innings combined against Mars Hill, Newberry College and Carson-Newman College.

Personal: Almond played varsity baseball four seasons for head coach David Lee at West Stanly. A right-handed pitcher, Almond and his Colt teammates won three Rocky River (2A) Conference regular season titles and one RRC tournament crown during his career.

For West Stanly, Almond compiled a 24-3 overall record in 2006, advancing to the state 2A play-offs for the fourth time in his career. During the past three seasons, the Colts notched a 67-14 overall record and a 46-2 slate in the RRC.

Almond was 6-2 overall during his senior season with a sterling 0.81 ERA. He had 83 strikeouts. At the plate, Almond hit .483 with four home runs and 23 RBI. As a junior in 2005, he was the RRC Player of the Year and an All-State selection.

In addition, he was All-Piedmont first team in 2005. His junior year statistics included a 1.46 ERA and a .411 batting average. He recorded a school-record eight pick-offs as a junior. His 23 RBI led the West Stanly team in 2005. Almond plays for the Stanly County American Legion team. His pitching coach is former Bulldog Chad Yow. Tyler is the son of Randy and Bobbie Almond.