Rampey adds spark to Easley baseball

EASLEY — Jackson who?

That’s what some of the local baseball fans (and opposing coaches) must have been saying when the baseball season started.

Quietly, Jackson Rampey has stepped into the starting role at second base this season for Easley and hasn’t looked back. He’s a junior on this senior-dominated team.

“It’s amazing,” said Rampey, after the recent win over Aiken. “I just came over here from Liberty. I like it a lot and I’ve developed a lot. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime thing. It’s awesome. I’ve never won this much in my life. It’s some of the best coaching I’ve had in my life. I’ve really enjoyed it.”

Rampey has been named the Student Athlete of the Month. It’s not because of a standout GPA. It’s more about learning how to adjust to a new environment (a school and a team) and making the most of it. It’s an attribute that will take him a long ways in life, whether he goes to some big-time college or in the military.

“When he (Rampey) first came over, I really didn’t know who he was,” said EHS baseball coach Gill Payne. “I knew a kid from Liberty had talked to guidance about coming over. You always worry when people transfer in because I knew we had a pretty good ballclub. I just didn’t know how somebody new was going to come in and fit in with these guys - they’ve played together forever.

“But geeze - he’s one of their brothers. He’s fit in perfect and has played a big role for us, a huge role. If he wouldn’t have come, I’m not sure what we would have done. He’s a blessing and easy to coach. He loves playing for Easley. We’re lucky to have him. Thank God.”

Rampey shined in the No. 7 spot last Friday night in Easley’s 5-3 win over Indian Land. Rampey delivered a run-scoring single to left field in the second inning to help spark the Wave rally. Plus on defense, he made some nice putouts in the field at second base.

Senior Peyton Anders - the starting shortstop for Easley - took some time to talk about Rampey as a teammate.

“I’m really proud of Rampey,” Anders said. “He’s been a dude for us all year. He’s come to practice every day and he’s worked really hard. He’s just showed up every day and played his position.”