LIVINGSTON, Ala. — For the first time in conference history, the Gulf South Conference has introduced its Golden Glove Team, and No. 11 West Alabama Tigers baseball is well represented.

Freshman right-handed pitcher Blake Westry and senior catcher Tanner Jones were both named to the inaugural GSC Golden Glove Team, highlighting the Tigers' defensive excellence during the 2026 season.
Westry, a standout on the mound, paired elite pitching with flawless defense. The freshman finished the regular season with a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage, recording 11 total chances with four putouts and seven assists without committing an error. His ability to control the running game and field his position cleanly made him one of the most reliable defensive pitchers in the conference.

Beyond his glove, Westry dominated statistically on the mound. He compiled an 8-1 record with a 2.24 ERA across 64.1 innings pitched, ranking second in the GSC in ERA. He also ranked near the top of the league in multiple categories, including tied for second in wins (8), second in runs allowed (17), and second in earned runs allowed (16), while holding opponents to a .242 batting average, good for seventh in the conference. His consistency and command were evident throughout the season, including a six-inning outing at Lee and multiple scoreless performances against conference opponents.

Behind the plate, Jones anchored the Tigers' defense with steady leadership and efficiency. The senior catcher posted a .990 fielding percentage, tallying 188 putouts and 19 assists with just two errors across 209 total chances. Known for his ability to manage the pitching staff and control opposing baserunners, Jones threw out seven runners attempting to steal, placing him among the top 10 in the GSC.

Jones also delivered key moments offensively, finishing the season with a .239 batting average, 21 hits, and 15 RBIs. His all-around contributions, particularly his defensive command and durability behind the plate, were instrumental in West Alabama's success throughout the season.

The recognition of Westry and Jones underscores the Tigers' emphasis on defense, as West Alabama places multiple players on the GSC's first-ever Golden Glove Team. With strong performances both on the mound and behind the plate, the duo has set the standard for defensive excellence in the conference's inaugural year of the award.