The Atlanta Braves have introduced a new initiative to highlight baseball programs at historically Black colleges and universities. Next month, the Braves will host the inaugural Ralph Garr-Bill Lucas HBCU Baseball Classic. At this year's event, Grambling State University will face-off against Florida A&M University in a three-game series.
“We are excited to introduce this annual HBCU series to honor two great men while focusing a spotlight on HBCU baseball programs,” Atlanta Braves Chief Executive Officer Derek Schiller said.
“HBCUs have been developing outstanding baseball talent and we are proud to facilitate the connection between college programs and the major leagues.”
The event is named after two Atlanta legends, Ralph Garr and Bill Lucas. Over eight seasons with the Braves, Garr hit 49 home runs and maintained a .317 batting average. After finishing his playing career, Garr spent 25 years working with the Braves organization and earned a spot in the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2006. Lucas also worked within the Braves organization and became the first Black man to oversee the team's player personnel department. He was also inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2006.
Grambling State University will kick off the three-game series on March 12 in Atlanta, Georgia at 7 p.m. Game two will take place on March 13 at 7 p.m. and the third game will take place on March 14. Tickets are now on sale at $10 per ticket.
Photo Credit: Getty Images