Bio

Johnny Ray left his mark on the Northwest baseball program during his two seasons in Senatobia. A native of Olive Branch, Ray played for legendary Hall of Fame coach Jim Miles from 1986-87, leading the Rangers to a 44-6 record as a freshman with both MACJC North Division and MACJC conference titles. During his first season, he posted a 7-1 record with a 2.20 ERA, earning All-MACJC Honorable Mention. Ray returned to the Rangers for his sophomore season in 1987, posting a 3-2 record and a 2.27 ERA, ending his Northwest career with an overall 10-3 record on the mound. After leaving Northwest, Ray joined the baseball program at Delta State University and played two seasons with the Statesmen from 1988-89. Following his career at DSU, Ray signed a free agent contract with the Cincinnati Reds in June 1989. He spent five seasons as a member of the Reds organization, compiling a 48-29 career pitching record during his time in the minor leagues. Following his retirement, Ray served as the assistant baseball coach for Southwest Tennessee Community College in Memphis from 1999-2002. He was promoted to head baseball coach at Southwest in 2004 and was named the Tennessee Baseball Coaches Association’s JUCO Coach of the Year. He later served as the Director of Baseball for USA Stadium in Millington, Tenn. Northwest Mississippi Community College