HBCU Swingman Classic 2024: Spotlighting Black Baseball Players

The HBCU Swingman Classic is back and better than ever, with the 2024 edition set to take place at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, during MLB All-Star Game week. Led by Baseball Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr., the event aims to shine a spotlight on Division I HBCU players who have historically been overlooked in the game.

With the percentage of Black players on MLB Opening Day rosters remaining stagnant at 6.0% in 2024, former MLB player Mark McLemore expressed concern over the decline of American-born Black players in the league. Initiatives like the HBCU Swingman Classic and Dream Series are crucial in increasing diversity and inclusion in baseball.

Griffey emphasized the importance of these initiatives in providing opportunities for Black players to stay involved in the sport they love, even if they may not make it to the majors. Players like Grambling State’s Cameron Bufford are eager to showcase their skills and potentially pave the way for the next generation of Black baseball players.

The HBCU Swingman Classic will be broadcast on MLB Network on Friday, July 12 at 8 p.m. ET, giving fans the chance to witness the talent and potential of these up-and-coming players. Don’t miss out on this exciting event that celebrates diversity and inclusion in the world of baseball.