TTM Stats
- Sent: 6/7/2022 | Received: 7/8/2022 | 31 Days
- ’86 Donruss, ’86 Topps, ’87 Donruss, ’87 Topps, ’88 Topps
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
- Sent: 4/3/2023 | Received: 4/14/2023 | 11 Days
- ’85 Fleer, ’85 Topps, ’86 Topps, ’87 Topps, ’88 Topps
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
- Sent: 11/15/2023 | Received: 1/16/2024 | 61 Days
- ’86 Topps, ’86 Topps, ’87 Topps, ’88 Donruss, ’88 Topps
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
The Story of the Autograph
Bill Almon may not be a household name among baseball fans today, but during his playing days, he stood out for more than just his glove and bat. As the first overall pick in the 1974 MLB Draft and a Princeton University graduate, Almon combined academic excellence with athletic skill in a way few others have. His career in Major League Baseball spanned over a decade, marked by versatility, hustle, and professionalism.
William Francis Almon was born on November 21, 1952, in Providence, Rhode Island. A standout athlete and scholar, Almon attended Princeton University, where he played shortstop for the Tigers and quickly became one of the best collegiate players in the country. His sharp baseball instincts, paired with a solid glove and strong bat, made him a top prospect despite playing at an Ivy League school—a rare feat even today.
In 1974, Almon made history when the San Diego Padres selected him as the No. 1 overall pick in the MLB Draft. He was the first Ivy League athlete ever chosen first overall, a distinction that highlighted both his talent and unique path to the majors.
Almon made his MLB debut later that same year with the Padres, a quick rise for any rookie—especially one just coming out of college. Over the next several seasons, he worked to establish himself as a starting shortstop. While his early years in San Diego were uneven, he gradually improved his game and became a dependable presence in the infield.
His best offensive season came in 1981 with the Chicago White Sox, when he batted .301 and helped the team remain competitive during a strike-shortened campaign. Almon wasn’t known for power, but he hit for average, stole bases, and played multiple infield positions with consistency and savvy.
Throughout his 15-year MLB career, Almon played for seven different teams: the Padres, Montreal Expos, White Sox, Oakland Athletics, Pittsburgh Pirates, New York Mets, and Philadelphia Phillies. While he never became a star, his versatility and team-first mentality made him a valuable utility man. He played over 1,200 games and finished with a .254 career batting average, 296 RBI, and 128 stolen bases.
Almon was the type of player managers trusted—someone who understood the game, adapted to his role, and never took a play off.
After retiring from playing in 1988, Almon largely stepped away from the spotlight. He returned to Rhode Island and focused on family life, community involvement, and faith. A devout Christian, Almon has spoken publicly about the role his beliefs played in his life and career.
He has also been involved with youth sports and coaching, sharing his knowledge and experience with young athletes, especially in the New England area.
Bill Almon’s baseball career may not have fulfilled the lofty expectations that come with being a No. 1 overall pick, but he forged a respectable and lengthy career through intelligence, adaptability, and work ethic. In a league full of stars and specialists, Almon was the glue guy—the reliable veteran who helped teams win in quiet but crucial ways.
And while his career might be a footnote in baseball history for some, he remains a rare example of an Ivy League athlete who not only reached the big leagues but thrived there for over a decade.
In the end, Bill Almon’s legacy is one of quiet accomplishment—a career built on brains, hustle, and heart.
The Score on Bill Almon – 7.5
Bill is one of the most reliable signers out there. One of my favorite things about him is not that he was a Met, it’s actually in how many different combinations of Pirates uniforms he’s in. So much yellow and black. These are great returns.
Thanks Mr. Almon! I’m going to give this lot a 7.5.
These are not my first returns from him. To see the other returns, check out these posts:
>>> READ MORE ABOUT MY AUTOGRAPH SCORING SYSTEM <<<
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Information gathered using Wikipedia and Baseball Reference.