The 2025 HBCU Swingman Classic, now in its third year, returns as a cornerstone event during MLB All-Star Week, providing a national spotlight for the best and brightest baseball players from Historically Black Colleges and Universities. And once again, the Magnolia State is well represented.
Spearheaded by MLB legend and Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr., the Swingman Classic was created to amplify the visibility of HBCU baseball talent and give players a chance to showcase their skills in front of pro scouts, fans, and the national baseball community. With backing from MLB and broadcast live on MLB Network, the game has quickly become one of the most meaningful—and electric—events during All-Star weekend every year.
Jackson State Tigers Lead the Charge
No school is better represented in this year’s game than Jackson State University, sending six players to Atlanta—tying them for the most out of the HBCU schools represented.
Headlining the group is Jordan McCladdie, a speedy junior outfielder from Augusta, Georgia, who batted .376 this season and led the SWAC in stolen bases. Known for his smooth left-handed swing and aggressive baserunning, McCladdie was named Preseason SWAC Player of the Year and continues to live up to the hype.
(Jordan McCladdie, Outfielder, Jackson State (Augusta, GA)
Joining him is Joseph Eichelberger, another dynamic outfielder who posted a .341 batting average with 18 doubles and 41 RBIs in 2025. He’s a spark plug in the lineup and a reliable glove in the outfield.
(Above: Jordan Eichelberg, Outfielder, Jackson State, (Lithonia, GA)
On the mound, Eric Elliott, a senior transfer from Maryland-Eastern Shore, has been one of the most dominant pitchers in the conference this year. The SWAC Pitcher of the Year, Elliott went 6–1 with a 3.28 ERA and tallied 95 strikeouts in just 74 innings, leading the conference in earned run average and ranking second in strikeouts.
(Above: Eric Elliott, Pitcher, Jackson State (Bowie, MD)
Also representing the Tigers are:
Nkosi Didder (Santa Cruz, Aruba) – a utility player and pitcher .
Erick Gonzalez (Bayamon, Puerto Rico) – a right-handed pitcher with excellent control and a deep pitch mix.
Robert Tate Jr. (Chicago, IL) – a sure-handed shortstop with speed and contact skills.
Mississippi Valley’s Lone Star
Mississippi Valley State may only have one representative, but shortstop Kade Wood is no slouch. The senior from Atlanta returns home and brings slick glove work and dependable bat skills to the American League roster. His leadership on and off the field was vital for the Delta Devils this year, and tonight, he’ll represent Itta Bena with pride. He hit .331 with 7 Home Runs and 34 RBI.
The lone Brave from Alcorn State
Meanwhile, Alcorn State adds serious pop with outfielder Jaylon Burrell — the Braves’ top home-run hitter (2 HR, 20 RBIs, .345 avg in 32 games) — on the American League roster
The Swingman Classic is also a reunion of baseball royalty. The two teams will be managed by former Atlanta Braves icons:
- David Justice (American League)
- Brian Jordan (National League)
Meanwhile, Ken Griffey Jr. will be on hand to oversee the event and continue his mission to elevate HBCU athletes to new heights. Griffey’s involvement has been more than ceremonial—he’s worked directly with players, organized pro-level development experiences, and ensured the game becomes a lasting legacy of opportunity.
📺 When & Where to Watch
The 2025 HBCU Swingman Classic will be televised live on MLB Network at 7 p.m. ET, with Truist Park—the home of the Atlanta Braves—serving as the venue.
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