Southern’s Jacoby Radcliffe Earns MVP as American League Defeats National League in 2026 HBCU Swingman Classic

By HBCU Original Staff
Story adapted from reporting by Courtney Hollmon/MLB.com

PHILADELPHIA — The American League squad claimed a 6-1 victory over the National League in the 2026 HBCU Swingman Classic on Friday night at Citizens Bank Park, but the evening was about much more than the final score. The annual showcase once again highlighted the exceptional talent across Historically Black Colleges and Universities while giving student-athletes a national stage ahead of the MLB Draft.

Southern University center fielder Jacoby Radcliffe delivered one of the night’s biggest performances, earning Most Valuable Player honors after helping lead the American League offense.

Radcliffe credited American League manager and Southern University legend Rickie Weeks for helping him make a key adjustment at the plate before the game.

“He talks about the mental side of the game a lot,” Radcliffe said. “He told me I just needed a little more separation on the outside pitch, and once I made that adjustment, everything started clicking.”

The moment carried extra significance as both Weeks and Radcliffe share Southern University roots. Weeks praised the young outfielder’s development and said seeing a fellow Jaguar earn MVP made the night even more special.

“It’s awesome,” Weeks said. “I’ve known Jacoby for a couple of years, and it’s been great watching him grow into the player he’s becoming. Seeing him earn that award tonight was really special.”

For Radcliffe, the performance represented a major milestone after overcoming adversity during his sophomore season, when he temporarily lost his starting position. With professional scouts watching just days before the MLB Draft, the Swingman Classic offered an opportunity to showcase both his resilience and talent.

“What this game means to me is showing the talent that’s here,” Radcliffe said. “Don’t overlook us. We’re here to play. No matter what happens, we’re here for each other. One band, one sound.”

National League manager Jimmy Rollins said the event continues to capture the spirit of HBCU athletics by emphasizing both competition and community.

“The joy, the excitement, and especially the camaraderie—that’s what stood out,” Rollins said. “Watching these young men compete reminded me of being a kid and simply loving the game.”

While the American League finished with a convincing 6-1 win on seven hits, the HBCU Swingman Classic once again proved that its greatest impact extends beyond the scoreboard. Created by Ken Griffey Jr., the annual event continues to celebrate HBCU baseball while providing student-athletes with national exposure and opportunities at the next level.

Credit: This story was adapted from original reporting by Courtney Hollmon for MLB.com.