By RENE TORRES
Although his life was cut short by tragedy, former Pan American University (now UTRGV) centerfielder Jody Ramsey symbolized the best of baseball and life, capturing the public’s imagination with his exploits on and off the field.
Recruited from San Jacinto College by legendary UTPA Head Baseball Coach Alfred “Al” Ogletree, who coached form 1968-97, Freeport’s Ramsey was among the finest athletes and human beings to ever compete as a Bronc since Edinburg Junior College established its first baseball team in 1927.
Unfortunately, Jody, a senior, had his better days ahead when, at an instant, tragedy struck.
The 1973 season was scheduled to begin on Feb. 23 against Baylor, but rain forced the game to be postponed until the next day, Saturday.
While preparing the field, Ramsey and teammate, Tommy Simpson picked up an irrigation pipe, which passed close to an overhead power line.
Ramsey was killed and Simpson was transported to the hospital to be treated for burns. Simpson survived, but not without emotional scars.
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