Major League Baseball is once again putting the spotlight on HBCU talent.
On Thursday, MLB officially announced the 50-man roster for the fourth annual HBCU Swingman Classic, set for July 10 at 7 p.m. ET at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia.
This year’s game will feature 50 standout players from across the country, split into American League and National League squads led by two familiar names.
Phillies legend and 2007 NL MVP Jimmy Rollins will guide the National League team, while HBCU standout and 14-year MLB veteran and former Southern University star Rickie Weeks takes charge of the American League side.
HBCU baseball legends to join event
The event will also bring out some serious HBCU star power off the field.
Andre Dawson (Florida A&M), Ralph Garr Sr. (Grambling State) and Ken Griffey Sr. are set to attend as honorary VIPs, adding even more HBCU and MLB legacy to the experience.
Beyond the names, the roster itself tells a bigger story about development and opportunity. Twenty-two players previously participated in MLB Develops programs, while several others came through key pipelines such as the Nike RBI program, the Hank Aaron Invitational, the DREAM Series, and the Breakthrough Series, according to MLB information.
There’s also a mix of familiar faces and fresh talent. Eleven players are returning to the Swingman Classic, including Justin Journette, Robert Tate Jr. and KJ White. Meanwhile, Philadelphia native Santino Harwood and Lincoln University’s Solomon McKinney add a local connection to this year’s game.
As the Swingman Classic continues to grow, it’s becoming more than just an exhibition—it’s a proving ground and celebration of HBCU baseball’s impact on the game.
