HBCU Swingman Classic

The HBCU Swingman Classic, presented by T-Mobile and powered by the MLB-MLBPA Youth Development Foundation (YDF), is an annual All-Star experience for baseball student-athletes from Division-I programs at Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCU). The inaugural philanthropic and educational event, which centered around an "All-Star" Game, was held during 2023 MLB All-Star Week on July 7 at T-Mobile Park, home of the Seattle Mariners. Three players who participated in the inaugural 2023 event were selected in the 2023 MLB Draft, and two players signed with MLB clubs as undrafted free agents.

The 2024 HBCU Swingman Classic will take place during 2024 MLB All-Star Week at Globe Life Field, home of the Texas Rangers.

The HBCU Swingman Classic highlights the history and legacy of HBCU baseball programs and also provides 50 HBCU baseball players with the opportunity to showcase their talent on a national stage. The student-athletes are selected by a committee that includes YDF Ambassador and Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr., representatives from MLB and MLBPA, and scouts. Major League Baseball and the Players Association co-operate the event.

2023 HBCU Swingman Coaches

  • Vince Coleman
  • James Cooper
  • Andre Dawson
  • Marvin Freeman
  • Ralph Garr
  • Cito Gaston
  • Ken Griffey Sr.
  • Marquis Grissom
  • Trenidad Hubbard
  • Jerry Manuel
  • Troy Marrow
  • Bo Porter
  • Lester Strode
  • Lenny Webster
  • Rickie Weeks

HBCU Swingman Classic in the News