The Longview ISD Board of Trustees voted unanimously Monday night to approve the hiring of Robert Ellis as the new head coach of the Longview High School Lobo Baseball program.
A former Major League Baseball pitcher with a deep East Texas pedigree and more than two decades of coaching experience, Ellis steps into the role with a vision rooted in fundamentals, discipline, and love of the game.
"Coach Ellis brings an excellent blend of professional experience, high school leadership, and personal integrity to our baseball program," said Longview ISD Athletic Director John King. "His commitment to developing student-athletes on and off the field aligns perfectly with the values of our entire athletic program."
Ellis, 53, spent parts of four seasons in the majors, pitching for the Arizona Diamondbacks, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Texas Rangers between 1996 and 2003. Drafted in 1990 by the Chicago White Sox out of Northwestern State University, he logged more than 12 seasons in professional baseball, including over 1,000 innings in the minor leagues.
After hanging up his cleats, Ellis returned home to East Texas and began building a legacy as a mentor and coach. He served as head baseball coach at Bullard High School from 2021 to 2024, leading them to multiple playoff appearances and earning a reputation for sharp player development and steady leadership. In 2024, he took on an expanded athletic coordinator role at Center ISD, overseeing multiple sports and student programs.
"Longview has a rich baseball tradition, and I’m honored to be part of it," Ellis said. "This program has everything you could ask for: talented athletes, supportive leadership, and a community that loves its Lobos."
Coach Ellis has three children: Aubrey, Morgan, and Duke. His son Duke played baseball for the University of Texas and is currently playing for the New York Yankees.
Ellis is expected to begin his duties this summer.