Pitcher Xavier Hernandez graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in Port Arthur, Texas, where his exceptional talent on the mound quickly set him apart as one of the top high school players in the state. A dominant right-hander, Hernandez earned All-State pitching honors and led Thomas Jefferson to the Class 5A state title in 1983, compiling a remarkable 19–1 record that season. His command, poise, and consistency drew national attention, and he was named the Texas High School Player of the Year — an honor that reflected both his individual excellence and leadership in guiding his team to a championship. His success at the high school level established him as one of the most promising young pitchers to come out of Southeast Texas, an area already known for producing elite athletic talent.

​

After high school, Hernandez went on to play college baseball at the University of Southwestern Louisiana (now the University of Louisiana at Lafayette), where he continued to refine his control and pitching mechanics. His performance earned him a fourth-round selection by the Toronto Blue Jays in the Major League Baseball Draft. Hernandez made his MLB debut with Toronto but found his long-term success after being traded to the Houston Astros in 1989. Primarily a relief pitcher, he became one of the Astros’ most dependable bullpen arms, known for his composure in tight situations and his ability to generate ground balls with precision. He remained with Houston until 1993 before being traded to the New York Yankees in exchange for pitcher Domingo Jean and infielder Andy Stankiewicz. In the following seasons, he also played for the Cincinnati Reds and the Texas Rangers, rounding out an 11-year major league career. His standout year came in 1992 with Houston, when he recorded a 9–1 win–loss record, 7 saves, and a stellar 2.11 earned run average (ERA), marking him among the league’s top relievers that season.

​

Following his playing career, Hernandez transitioned into coaching, bringing his experience and knowledge of pitching mechanics to the next generation of players. From 2002 to 2010, he served as a pitching coach in the Tampa Bay Rays’ minor league system, helping develop young arms across several levels. He coached with the Charleston RiverDogs from 2002 to 2004, then with the Montgomery Biscuits from 2005 to 2006, and later with the Durham Bulls from 2007 to 2010. Known for his patient and disciplined coaching style, Hernandez earned a reputation for helping young pitchers build both confidence and consistency, qualities that had defined his own playing career. His years in player development further demonstrated his deep understanding of the game and his commitment to teaching it the right way.

​

Today, Xavier Hernandez continues to share his expertise as the pitching coach for Houston Christian University (formerly Houston Baptist University), where he mentors collegiate pitchers striving to reach the professional level.