Ken Griffey Jr. is set to host the fourth edition of the Swingman Classic, an HBCU All-Star Game that will open MLB All-Star Weekend in Philadelphia, airing on MLB Network at 7:00 p.m. ET this Friday.
Swingman Classic Returns
The former Cincinnati Reds star points to limited accessibility, scarce resources and insufficient exposure as the chief reasons behind the steady drop of Black athletes in baseball.
Griffey says he wants to reverse that trend by creating a platform that not only showcases talent but also makes the sport feel relatable to youngsters across the country.
Beyond the game, he has taken up photography, capturing moments on the diamond and in the stands, and he stresses that mentorship and support networks are vital in both arenas.
He also hinted at a possible role in a new ownership group aiming to bring the Seattle SuperSonics back to the NBA, while naming current players he enjoys watching, including Ohtani, Freeman, Betts, Trout, Harper, Guerrero and Julio Rodriguez.
The conversation touched on the labor landscape in baseball, the difficulty of hitting leadoff and the broader goal of diversifying the sport’s future.