Florida A&M University’s baseball program is set to shine on a national stage as four of its standout players have been chosen for the 2026 HBCU Swingman Classic, a showcase that coincides with MLB All-Star Week in Philadelphia.
A platform for the next generation
The quartet — William Brown, Caleb Granger, Jay Campbell and Jackson McKenzie — will join a select group of Historically Black College and University athletes who earn the chance to compete on a Major League field. Brown’s selection came as a surprise, arriving shortly after his final collegiate game, while Granger’s inclusion reflects a remarkable comeback after elbow surgery and a transfer from Andrew College.
The Classic, conceived by Baseball Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr., is more than a competition; it is a bridge that connects emerging talent with former MLB stars and Hall of Fame icons, offering mentorship and exposure that extends far beyond the box score.
Head Coach Jamey Shouppe praised the four athletes, describing them as "outstanding students and outstanding people," and highlighted how their perseverance embodies the values the university seeks to instill both on and off the diamond.
For Brown and Granger, the invitation represents a culmination of relentless effort and team support. Both have spoken about the importance of consistent hard work, the camaraderie of their teammates, and the honor of representing FAMU’s rich baseball legacy on such a prominent platform.