In the swing of things: the 3rd annual Swingman Classic sets the stage for the 2025 All-Star Game by showcasing the top HBCU baseball prospects and so much more

Getting in the swing of things.

Ranging from its influence within the Negro Leagues and across the board in the game of baseball, our Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU's) are the catalysts for constructive change, social enrichment, and so much more.

When it comes to the game, multiple entities are doing their part to showcase those who are among the best and brightest in the sport. On the Major League Baseball level, Hall of Fame Outfielder Ken Griffey, Jr., regarded as one of the greatest players of his era, is utilizing his platform as one of the Major League Baseball-Major League Baseball Players' Association (MLB-MLBPA) Youth Development Foundation Global Ambassador to help get the 2025 All-Star Week off to a solid start.

(Top row [left to right]: Ken Griffey, Jr addresses the media, one of the teams gets ready to work out, and Harold Reynolds speaks with the media. Bottom row [left to right]: A snapshot of the team workout, veteran sports journalist Dave Sims, and Trey Rutledge partaking of time with Ken Griffey, Jr.).

Now in its 3rd year, the Swingman Classic (presented by T-Mobile and powered by the aforementioned foundation) features 50 of the top baseball players from HBCU's to do more than just fine tune and showcase their playing and team skills. With hands on opportunities to learn from a wide array of former players and related personnel, the takeaways ranging from community engagement and professional development leave a positive mark and impact which can last a lifetime.

The teams are managed by former Atlanta Braves David Justice (American) and Brian Jordan (National). Their presence is augmented by the following former players:

• Former Major Leaguers Marvin Freeman (former MLB pitcher), Michael Bourn (former MLB outfielder/two-time All-Star and former Gold Glove recipient along with among other awards), Mike Jackson (former MLB pitcher), Chuck McElroy (former MLB pitcher), and Eric Patterson (former MLB pitcher).

• Former MLB players Courtney Duncan (Grambling State University), Trenidad Hubbard (Southern University), Milt Thompson (Howard University), and Lenny Webster (Grambling State University, who are proud HBCU alumni.

• Former minor leaguer and pitching coach Lester Strode (Kentucky State University), former minor leaguer Corey Wimberly (Alcorn State University), former minor leaguer Gary Templeton II, and USA Baseball 16U/17U National Team Development Program Assistant Coach Troy Marrow.

• Honorary VIP's and former players Andre Dawson (a member of the Hall of Fame and alumnus of Florida A&M University), Dusty Baker (former player and manager), Ken Griffey, Sr. (a three-time All-Star and two-time World Series Champion), and Ralph Garr (a member of the Atlanta Braves' Hall of Fame and alumnus of Grambling State University).

During the team workouts at Mac Nease Baseball Park at Russ Chandler Stadium on the campus of Georgia Tech, Ken Griffey, Jr. fields our question during his talk with the media regarding the potential positive and growing footprint the classic can bring (you may watch his response in the video below):

Former long-time Seattle Mariner (a two-time All-Star and three-time Gold Glove winning second baseman) and current MLB Network Lead Studio Analyst (and Emmy Award Winner) Harold Reynolds not only takes time to provide insight on the game and broadcasting, but delivers timely life-lessons, including being a life-long learner (you may watch his response to our question in the video below):

In between workout sessions, a familiar face takes time to speak with us; Alabama A&M's Trey Rutledge connects with us to provide timely feedback on his experience during All-Star Weekend (you may watch his interview below):

As the workout sessions wind down, we're fortunate to receive additional insight and learning moments from Trenidad Hubbard regarding the relevance of the game (you may watch his interview below):

If the opening day of All-Star Week is any indication, it's a good idea to get in the swing of things thanks to the people, players, personnel, and all working with the Swingman Classic.

Notes: You may watch all segments and full interviews/talks on our playlist (click HERE). Tickets are available for the game on Friday, July 11th (2025) at 7pm EST as the game takes place at Truist Park (click HERE for more information). All photos and video are recorded by asnortonccs.