Xavier University of Louisiana has developed into a top HBCU small school baseball program. This has happened under the direction of head coach Andrian Holloway. His squad put together a memorable 2021 season, finishing with a 27-11 overall record. They had a dramatic run in the Black College World Series finishing second.
Xavier is building to win big in 2022, led by one of the HBCUs small school most talented weekend rotations.
Said XULA Coach Adrian Holloway, “after a delayed start to fall practice because of Hurricane Ida, we’ve seen some great things on our team since we started practicing for 2022. We added several pieces to the puzzle and expect those newcomers to contribute right away. All our starters return except one, and we are looking to build on the momentum we created last season. With a healthy pitching staff and our bats coming through for us, we should have another solid season. “
With the fall just underway, Holloway is happy where his squad is at right now. He believes they are in a good spot with personnel and recruiting to begin the 2022 year. He also mentioned that he wants to move guys around throughout the fall to see what the best fit would be for utility position players.
A big point of emphasis in the offseason has been the incoming freshman and transfer players. They have a talented group coming in.
With recruiting, players will have to step up to make an impact. One spot, Holloway mentioned, was returning players.
While there are a lot of incoming players ready to go, the returners will need to provide the experience. Coach Holloway specifically mentioned returnees pitcher Blair Frederick, center fielder Co Co Simoneaux and shortstop Antonio Rodriguez. “All are playing great this fall and appear better than they were in the spring.”
Though the bullpen will be talented in 2022, there is no solidified closer yet. Holloway is searching for some of his pitchers to take on that role.
Regarding the pitching staff, Jamal Allen, Juwan Fitch, and Nigel Mayfield are set to return and will take the pitching staff to another level.
There are no exhibition games scheduled, just interscrimages as the Xavier Gold Rush starts working towards its 2022 campaign.