The Southern Jaguars baseball team is gearing up for an action-packed 2025 season, which kicks off with the Cactus Jack Classic in Houston on February 14 against Texas Southern. Following this, the team will embark on a new conference schedule format starting March 14. The Jaguars will play all five divisional opponents and five of six from the opposite division, excluding Florida A&M. Teams will be seeded based on their records for a double-elimination tournament beginning May 21. Additionally, five of the first seven conference series will be played at home in Baton Rouge, providing fans with plenty of opportunities to cheer for the Jaguars.
New Schedule Format Brings Fresh Challenges
Beginning in March, the Southern Jaguars will adopt a revamped conference schedule that promises to test their mettle against various opponents. Instead of the traditional home-and-home SWAC divisional series each weekend, the team will face all five divisional rivals and five out of six teams from the opposite division. This change adds a layer of unpredictability and excitement to the season. The Jaguars will not play Florida A&M but will compete against other formidable opponents to secure a favorable seeding for the double-elimination tournament starting May 21.
The new scheduling format ensures that every game counts, as teams vie for top positions in the standings. The Jaguars will need to demonstrate resilience and adaptability throughout the season. Each match will contribute significantly to their overall record, ultimately determining their seed in the tournament. Fans can expect thrilling matchups and intense competition as the team navigates this challenging new structure. The double-elimination format adds an extra layer of excitement, ensuring that only the best teams advance to the final stages of the season.
Home Field Advantage in Early Season
In the early part of the 2025 season, the Jaguars will enjoy the comfort of playing multiple games at home. Five of their first seven conference series will take place in Baton Rouge, giving local fans ample chances to support their team. The Jaguars will open their home schedule on February 25 against Dillard, followed by a string of consecutive home games. This stretch includes a three-game series against Saint Peter from February 28 to March 2 and a single game against Xavier on March 4. These home games provide a strong foundation for the team to build momentum heading into the heart of the season.
The Jaguars will also have significant non-conference matches during this period. Notably, they will play at LSU on February 18, adding a high-profile matchup to their early-season slate. The team's home-field advantage will be crucial as they face various opponents, including regional rivals and visiting teams. The extended homestand allows players to settle into a rhythm without the disruptions of travel. Fans can look forward to an exciting start to the season, with numerous opportunities to witness the Jaguars in action at Lee-Hines Field. As the team prepares for the challenges ahead, these home games will be instrumental in establishing a winning mindset and building fan support.