Player Profile: Armando Almanza

I have two cards of Armando Almanza. This one is from 1999 Fleer Tradition Update.

Playing career: Armando Almanza pitched for the Marlins, Braves and Diamondbacks from 1999 to 2005. In 254 games, all in relief, he pitched only 214.2 innings – a classic LOOGY. While he did strike out over a batter an inning, he had a career ERA of almost 5.00.

Where he is now: An instructor at the Next Level Baseball Academy in El Paso,TX.

My memories: I had him confused with Alfredo Amezaga and remembered him as an infielder, not a pitcher.

Interesting stories: In a 2001 game, recorded an out and earned a hold – without throwing a strike. He walked two batters in the appearance but there was a caught stealing while he was on the mound.

Google Autocomplete results: He is first when you type Armando Alm, ahead of Armando Almeida, Head of Global Services at Nokia Siemens Networks. Another prominent Armando Almanza is the owner of Ventana Productions.

Coming up next: The next profile will be Bill Almon.