Photo Credit: Morehouse Athletics
June 17, 2025
ATLANTA, GA | Morehouse College is proud to announce that junior shortstop Elijah Pinckney has made history as the first NCAA Division II player ever selected to participate in the prestigious 2025 HBCU Swingman Classic, scheduled for Friday, July 11 at 7 p.m. ET at Truist Park during MLB All‑Star Week.
Pinckney earned his spot among 50 elite HBCU athletes following a phenomenal season with the Maroon Tigers:
- 407 batting average (50 hits in 123 at‑bats)
- .599 on‑base percentage with 51 walks and 11 hit‑by‑pitches (ranking 2nd in DII)
- .618 slugging percentage and 1.217 OPS
- 58 runs scored, 7 doubles, 2 triples, 5 home runs, 34 RBI, and 76 total bases
- 26 stolen bases on 29 attempts; just 10 strikeouts all season
- .982 fielding percentage over 167 chances with 20 double plays turned
In addition to this historic Swingman Classic invite, Pinckney was recently named to the Black College Nines Elites Small School Second Team and started in the Minority Prospects HBCU All‑Star Baseball Game.
Coach Antonio Grissom shared his enthusiasm:
“Elijah is the kind of player every coach dreams of having. His work ethic, skill set, and leadership define what it means to be a Maroon Tiger.”
Athletic Director Harold Ellis stated:
“Elijah’s selection not only honors his individual excellence, but also elevates our program’s visibility on a national HBCU stage. We’re proud to break new ground for Division II athletes.”
SIAC Commissioner Dr. Anthony Holloman added:
“I want to congratulate Elijah for being the first Division II player selected to participate in the HBCU Swingman Classic. He is a great representation of Morehouse College and the SIAC. His selection is testament to the hard work and dedication that have been a foundation for his success on and off the diamond.”
Significance of Selection
This selection marks a major milestone: Elijah is the first-ever Division II athlete to compete in the Swingman Classic, previously limited to Division I programs. His inclusion breaks barriers and sets a new precedent—highlighting the depth of talent at HBCU institutions across all NCAA divisions. For continued coverage and updates, visit www.morehouseathletics.com or follow @MaroonTigers.
About the HBCU Swingman Classic
The HBCU Swingman Classic, presented by T‑Mobile and powered by the MLB–MLBPA Youth Development Foundation, is a marquee exhibition game during MLB All‑Star Week celebrating the legacy and talent of HBCU baseball. Fifty standout players—traditionally from Division I HBCUs—are selected by a committee led by Ken Griffey Jr., along with MLB, MLBPA, and professional scouts. This national showcase features:
- High‑profile baseball action
- Performances by HBCU marching bands
- Divine Nine Greek step shows
- Pre‑game and post‑game fan experiences, including fireworks
The event provides significant exposure for HBCU athletes and supports MLB’s initiative to expand baseball’s diversity and reconnect with Black college baseball traditions. For more information on the 2025 HBCU Swingman Classic, click HERE. To purchase tickets for the 2025 HBCU Swingman Classic click HERE.
Source: Morehouse College Athletic Department
That is great to hear I hope he gets a chance to play professional baseball