About Almeida: Almeida will be a key member of the starting rotation in 2008 after an
impressive freshman campaign. Almeida is a competitive righty with a good mix of pitches who can throw deep into games.

As a freshman: Made 12 starts, posting a 5-6 record ... His 1.90 ERA was fifth-best in program history for ERA in a season ... Held opponents to a .195 batting average ... NE-10 Pitcher of the Week after throwing a complete-game, three-hit shutout against Adelphi in the NCAA Regionals ... Struck out seven while being named to the All-Tournament Team ... Daktronics All-Northeast Region Second Team selection.

Before Bryant: Graduated from Fairhaven High School in 2006 ... Lettered in baseball, basketball and football for the Blue Devils ... Named a South Coast Conference All-Star ... Honor Society member.

Personal: Son of Tony and Carolyn Almeida ... Born December 9, 1987 in New Bedford, Mass. ... Has two sisters, Allyson and Lauren ... Is undecided in the College of Business.