XULA Hires Former MLB Player as Head Coach Amid Start of 2025 Season
By Nicholas Swain
After a disappointing 2024 season, Xavier University of Louisiana has hired former Major League Baseball player Xavier Paul as its new head baseball coach for the 2025 season. Paul aims to revitalize the program and establish a winning culture, with a primary goal of leading the team to the Red River Conference tournament and securing a championship.
“Our expectations and main goal are to ensure we’re prepared to improve our record from last year in the conference,” Paul said. “And to bring a positive, winning attitude to accomplish our goals.”
The team finished 18-25 last season, marking its third consecutive year without a playoff appearance. In response, the university brought in Paul, whose professional experience provides a new perspective for the program.
Graduate student and third baseman Caleb Washington expressed optimism about the changes under Paul’s leadership.
“Last year, players struggled due to a lack of organization, which caused confusion for the team,” Washington said. “Coach Paul has improved the team by teaching us professionalism and the fundamentals of baseball.”
Paul has implemented daily practices to prepare his players for the season ahead.
“We work on the fundamentals of the game and strive for perfection in practice, hoping to achieve more consistent results,” he said.
Paul, who played outfield for four MLB teams before retiring in 2018, brings extensive experience to the program. His passion for baseball dates back to high school, where he was nicknamed “Mr. Baseball.” After graduation, he was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2003.
“I have 20 years of experience in professional baseball to share with these guys,” Paul said. “One of the main things I’ve learned is how to encourage myself during difficult times because there’s so much failure involved in baseball. My experience has given me plenty of opportunities to learn how to cope with failure positively.”
Excitement for the upcoming season extends beyond the team. Freshman biology pre-med major Lauren Chambers voiced her support.
“I really enjoy watching baseball and have a lot of faith that our team can go far,” Chambers said. “From what I’ve heard, they seem very driven this season.”
The team opened its season with a doubleheader on the road against the United States Sports Academy on Feb. 7, falling 4-3. The following day, they split another doubleheader, winning 9-5 before losing 6-5.
“When I first showed up for fall practices, I was surprised by the amount of talent we had,” Paul said. “I am very excited to be a part of this ball team.”
