Birmingham, Ala. – One of the most decorated student-athletes in West Alabama history, Jeff Branson, joins the Gulf South Conference Hall of Fame's inaugural class.
"Jeff was an outstanding student-athlete and a fine young man when we were fortunate enough to have him," reflected UWA's
Janet Montgomery. "He is one of the few Olympic athletes in the history of the Gulf South Conference and has remained a loyal alumnus at the University of West Alabama."
Career Highlights
- Currently serving as hitting coach for the Pittsburgh Pirates and is in 12th season with the organization.
- Member of the 1988 Gold Medal winning United States Olympic Baseball Team.
- Selected in the second round of the 1988 draft by Cincinnati and made his professional debut in 1989.
- Drilled a memorable first career homer off John Smoltz in Atlanta.
- Appeared in the 1997 World Series as a member of the Cleveland Indians.
- Played nine seasons in the major leagues.
- First Team All-American in 1988 after hitting .435 for the year as a junior.
- Also tabbed Alabama Small College Athlete of the Year that season.
- Ranks in the top-5 in eight offensive categories at UWA including an impressive .391 career batting average.
- Three-time All-Gulf South selection at shortstop.
- Served as a minor league manager for five seasons.
The remaining two other GSC Hall of Fame honorees will be announced tomorrow and on Friday. Check back to
gscsports.org daily for more information. Join us in the conversation on all of our social platforms using the hashtag, #GSCHOF.
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