Tyler Tipton is a right-handed pitcher in his first season with the Lightning. After pitching three seasons at the varsity level at Gaither High School, Tipton took his talents to South Florida State College. As a member of the Panthers, Tyler strung together a pair of impressive seasons, highlighted by his sophomore year campaign. In a shortened 2020 season, he made the most of his six appearances (all starts), compiling a 3-2 record and a 2.97 ERA over a team-leading 36.1 innings. He went the distance in two of his starts, tossing a pair of complete games, good enough for ninth in the NJCAA. In the spring, Tyler will make his debut as a member of Florida Gulf Coast University's baseball program.