ATLANTA, GA — The HBCU Swingman Classic is ready to kick off the 2025 MLB All-Star weekend on Friday, July 11, bringing excitement to fans and players alike. This year marks the third annual event, and it will take place at Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves. The game is set to start at 7 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on MLB Network and MLB.com.
The Swingman Classic aims to highlight the rich history and talent of HBCU baseball programs. Fifty players from 17 different HBCU institutions have been selected to participate, showcasing their skills on such a prominent stage. The selection committee, which includes baseball Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr., has carefully picked these athletes to represent their schools, alongside scouts and MLB representatives.
This event not only celebrates HBCU baseball but is also connected to several other developmental programs. Events like the Breakthrough Series and the Hank Aaron Invitational provide additional platforms for exposure and development for amateur players.
Players are split into two teams representing the American League and National League, managed by former Braves All-Stars Brian Jordan and David Justice. Each school brings its best talents, with Bethune-Cookman leading the way with seven players, followed closely by Alabama State, Jackson State, and Southern, each contributing six players.
Among the standout HBCU players this season is Thibodeaux, who has racked up impressive stats, leading the nation in slugging percentage at .847 and also boasting a batting average of .439. Meanwhile, on the pitching side, Elliot dominated with a 2.54 ERA and a remarkable strikeouts-per-inning rate.
The HBCU Swingman Classic is evolving, too. This year, a new face, Elijah Pinckney from Morehouse, becomes the first DII player selected to participate. His performance this season, hitting .407 and maintaining a 1.217 OPS, has set him apart as a valuable contributor.
The event promises more than just baseball, featuring marching band performances, philanthropic events, and a Divine Nine step show to create a festive atmosphere. With past alumni being drafted into professional leagues, the Swingman Classic aims to shine a brighter light on these deserving athletes.
