Main League Baseball and the MLB-MLBPA Youth Improvement Basis have introduced the 50 HBCU student-athletes chosen for the third annual HBCU Swingman Traditional, set for Friday, July 11, 2025, at Truist Park in Atlanta. The occasion, named after MLB legend Ken Griffey Jr., takes place throughout MLB All-Star Week and celebrates elite baseball expertise from Traditionally Black Schools and Universities.
Gamers had been chosen by a range committee that includes Griffey Jr., MLB and MLBPA officers, and scouts. The rosters had been revealed reside on MLB Community through the 2025 MLB Draft Mix.
Former Atlanta Braves stars Brian Jordan and David Justice will handle the Nationwide League and American League squads, respectively. Honorary friends embody Corridor of Famer Andre Dawson, Dusty Baker, Ken Griffey Sr., and Ralph Garr Sr.
Notable teaching workers embody:
Michael Bourn, two-time All-Star and Gold Glove winner
HBCU alumni and former MLB gamers Courtney Duncan, Trenidad Hubbard, Milt Thompson, and Lenny Webster
USA Baseball coach Troy Marrow
The 50 athletes characterize 17 HBCUs, together with Jackson State, Florida A&M, North Carolina A&T, and Southern College. A number of gamers have participated in MLB’s elite growth packages just like the Breakthrough Sequence and the Hank Aaron Invitational.
Noteworthy returning gamers embody:
Irvin Escobar (Bethune-Cookman), making his third look
Joseph Eichelberger (Jackson State) and Robert Tate Jr. (Jackson State), amongst eight gamers returning for a second time
Pre-game festivities will rejoice HBCU tradition with a Divine 9 tribute and reside leisure.
This occasion not solely shines a highlight on rising Black expertise in baseball but additionally underscores MLB’s dedication to range and youth growth.
