The third annual HBCU Swingman Classic, presented by T-Mobile and powered by the MLB-MLBPA Youth Development Foundation, has announced its roster. The event will feature 50 baseball players from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the United States. This year, six players from Jackson State University have been selected to participate in the game.
The classic is scheduled to take place at Truist Park in Atlanta on July 11 during All-Star Weekend. Former Atlanta Braves stars David Justice and Brian Jordan will manage the teams. Representing Jackson State are Jordan McCladdie, Joseph Eichelberger, Eric Elliott, Robert Tate Jr., Erick Gonzalez, and Nkosi Didder.
Jordan McCladdie was named Second Team All-Conference after a strong season with a batting average of .376. He recorded 68 hits, including 12 doubles and five triples. McCladdie also led the nation in stolen bases prior to regionals with 49 steals in 53 attempts.
Joseph Eichelberger finished his season with a .341 batting average and collected 63 hits including 18 doubles. He was noted for leading the nation with ten sacrifice flies.
Eric Elliott earned recognition as SWAC Pitcher of the Year and was included on the National Pitcher of the Year Watch List. He held opponents to a .204 batting average over his appearances this season.
Robert Tate Jr., returning for his second Swingman Classic appearance, managed to achieve significant performance despite an early-season injury that limited him to 34 games.
Erick Gonzalez led Jackson State in wins with eight victories over his appearances this season while maintaining a .244 opponent batting average.
Nkosi Didder contributed from the bullpen in his first season at Jackson State, logging two saves over his appearances while holding opponents to a .241 batting average.
Jackson State Athletics encourages fans to follow their social media accounts or visit their official website for more updates on their sports programs.
