TAMPA – University of South Florida signee James Ramsey was named the winner of the 2010 Tony Saladino Award Sunday evening – an honor given annually to the best senior baseball player in Hillsborough County.

“To win the Saladino Award is a great honor for James and his family,” said Bulls Head Coach Lelo Prado. “It is a prestigious award. It means something special to people in Tampa, and it couldn't go to a better young man. We are glad that he is going to represent the University of South Florida.”

Ramsay, who committed to the Bulls in December of 2008 and signed with the program last fall, is currently taking summer classes at USF.

The Brandon native decided to keep his pledge and come to USF, turning down an offer to begin a professional career after being drafted earlier this month. Ramsay was selected by the New York Yankees in the 38th round of the 2010 MLB Draft with pick No. 1,165.

Ramsay received the award Sunday evening from Saladino Tournament founders Tony and Bertha Saladino at their home. It is awarded in honor of Tony's father, Tony Saladino, Sr.

The 2008 St. Petersburg Times Hillsborough County Player of the Year as a sophomore, Ramsay hit .417 in his senior year at nearby Brandon High School. 

“When we recruited James, we thought that he was one of the best players in Hillsborough County, and this award proves it,” said Prado. “He is a very special individual, both on and off the field.”

A torn ACL wiped out all but three games of Ramsay's junior year, but he showed no ill effects as he returned for his senior campaign to hit three home runs and seven doubles with 17 RBI. Ramsay struck out just five times in 25 games and did not commit an error while manning centerfield.

“There are some big names who have won that award; with a number of them having gone on to playing the big leagues,” said Prado. “I have no doubt that he is another winner that will get the same opportunity and make it to the majors following his collegiate career at USF.”

The Saladino Award, given out every season since 1971, is selected by a vote of county baseball coaches. It is selected based on playing ability as well as scholarship, leadership and character. Past recipients of the award include major leaguers Mike Heath (1973), Dave Magadan (1980), Rich Monteleone (1982), Tino Martinez (1985), Gary Sheffield (1986) and Jason Romano (1997).

Ramsay also joins five other Bulls who are past recipients of the Saladino Award. They are John Shouse (1975), Scott Glaser (1994), Romano (1997) and Ryan Glogler (1999).

Ramsay is now a part of a exclusive fraternity as one of the best players in the history of Hillsborough county high school baseball.

“Now, wherever he goes, he is a Tony Saladino Award Winner,” added Prado.