The XULA Gold Athletics Baseball team visited the legendary professional baseball player Gerald “Fireball” Sazon to celebrate his 86th birthday. The team met Sazon on April 25, 2022, at St. Margret’s Nursing Home in Mid-City during his surprise baseball-themed party and brought the gifts of an athletics baseball shirt, hat, and autographed baseball. Sazon, who earned his notoriety through his career as a pitcher in the American Negro Baseball League, is still an inspiration to athletes today.  

Sazon is a former member of the New Orleans Creoles and the New Orleans Black Pelicans. Sazon began playing professionally at the age of sixteen before pitching for the Indianapolis Clowns. Sazon attained his nickname “Fireball” because his pitching was so fast, that fans could hear the pop of the baseball when it made contact with the catcher’s glove.  

The recently re-established Xavier baseball program was honored to meet a legend of the sport. 

“Since day one, we have always tried to instill in the players that there is always something bigger than baseball and to see the bigger picture. People like Mr. Sazon embody those things,” said Adrian Halloway, the head coach of Xavier’s baseball team. “The trials and tribulations that Black players like him went through to play the game that they love laid the foundation and created opportunities for us to play the sport today with the luxuries we have. It was very monumental to hear him and appreciate his stories.”  

The Xavier baseball and recently established softball teams compete at the Wesley Barrow Stadium, named after Wesley Barrow, the former coach of Sazon during his time in New Orleans.  

After a heart-filled celebration with family, friends, and admirers, Sazon ended the day in bliss.  

“I’m thankful for the years, and I’m thankful for the recognition,” said Sazon.