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Brandon's Ramsay Opts To Play Baseball For USF

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By ADAM ADKINS | The Tampa Tribune

Published: January 22, 2009

Brandon High junior baseball standout James Ramsay has verbally committed to the University of South Florida.

Ramsay, an outfielder, was receiving interest from numerous collegiate programs. Brandon coach Matt Stallbaumer said Thursday Ramsay decided the hometown Bulls were the best fit because of the proximity of the program and the relationship he'd established with Bulls head coach Lelo Prado.

"It was known that James was one that had an opportunity to go numerous places," Stallbaumer said. "I think it came down to the opportunity to be close to home and there is a comfort level he has with Coach Prado and that system. There is a comfort there and he sees an opportunity to step in and play right away when it's time for him to move on [from Brandon]. I think for him making the decision and getting it out of the way, he's excited about it."

Ramsay was one of the area's top performers as a sophomore, both in the field and at the plate. In addition to playing stellar defense in center field (he committed just one error), Ramsay hit .467 with nine doubles, one triple, three home runs, 30 RBIs and 35 runs scored while helping Brandon reach the Class 5A state tournament. He was a Tribune All-Hillsborough County first team selection and a Florida Sports Writers Association Class 5A first team all-state selection.

Ramsay had a breakout performance during the Saladino Tournament last season, earning MVP honors while helping the Eagles win the tournament championship with a victory over Hillsborough. He went 13-for-19 during the five-game stretch and set a new tournament record for hits.

"One of the best things about James is he always comes out here and works hard every day," Stallbaumer said. "There's no bragging, no arrogance. He's just so humble. It's just great to have him around."

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