Baseball fans looking for early-season action will have plenty to watch this weekend as the 2026 Andre Dawson Classic gets underway. The annual showcase of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) baseball programs, and other collegiate teams, will feature ten games streamed live on MLB.com, with two matchups broadcast nationally on MLB Network. The event, held at Lee Health Sports Complex, promises exciting competition and a spotlight on rising talent. This year’s classic offers a compelling blend of established programs and emerging contenders, all vying for recognition on a national stage. The Andre Dawson Classic is quickly becoming a key event for scouts and fans alike.
The tournament kicks off Saturday, February 21st, with a full slate of games. Southern University will face off against Texas Southern University at 9:00 a.m. ET, marking the start of a day filled with compelling matchups. Later in the day, Yale University will take on Jackson State University at 4:00 p.m. ET, broadcast live on MLB Network. The evening will conclude with another MLB Network broadcast featuring Bethune-Cookman University versus Florida A&M University at 8:00 p.m. ET. The full schedule, available on MLB.com, details all ten games across the three-day event. Fans can follow all the action live, regardless of location, through MLB.com’s streaming service.
A Celebration of HBCU Baseball
The Andre Dawson Classic is more than just a baseball tournament; it’s a celebration of the rich history and growing future of HBCU athletics. Named after Hall of Famer Andre Dawson, a product of Florida A&M University, the classic aims to provide a platform for these athletes to showcase their skills to a wider audience. The event’s increasing visibility on MLB Network and MLB.com underscores the league’s commitment to diversity and inclusion within the sport. The classic provides invaluable exposure for players hoping to pursue professional careers, and it fosters a sense of community among HBCU programs.
Saturday’s Featured Matchups on MLB Network
The decision to broadcast Yale versus Jackson State and Bethune-Cookman versus Florida A&M on MLB Network highlights the competitive nature of this year’s classic. These games are expected to draw significant viewership, offering fans a chance to witness the talent and passion on display. Jackson State, a perennial powerhouse in HBCU baseball, will be a team to watch. Florida A&M, Andre Dawson’s alma mater, will undoubtedly be motivated to perform well on national television. The broadcasts will provide in-depth coverage, including player profiles and expert analysis, enhancing the viewing experience for fans.
Full Schedule and Streaming Information
Beyond the games featured on MLB Network, the entire Andre Dawson Classic will be available for live streaming on MLB.com. This accessibility ensures that fans across the country, and even internationally, can tune in to support these talented athletes. Here’s a seem at the complete schedule (all times ET):
- Saturday, February 21st:
- Southern vs. Texas Southern – 9:00 a.m.
- Yale vs. Jackson State – 4:00 p.m. (MLB Network)
- Bethune-Cookman vs. Florida A&M – 8:00 p.m. (MLB Network)
Detailed schedules for Sunday and Monday’s games are available on MLB.com. Fans are encouraged to visit the website for the most up-to-date information, including team rosters and game results.
The Growing Impact of the Andre Dawson Classic
The Andre Dawson Classic has quickly established itself as a premier event in college baseball, attracting attention from scouts, media, and fans. The tournament’s success is a testament to the dedication of the participating universities and the vision of MLB in supporting HBCU athletics. The classic not only provides a platform for players to showcase their skills but also serves as an inspiration for young athletes in underrepresented communities. The event’s continued growth is expected to further elevate the profile of HBCU baseball and contribute to greater diversity within the sport. The classic’s impact extends beyond the field, fostering a sense of pride and community among HBCU alumni and supporters.
Looking ahead, the organizers of the Andre Dawson Classic are focused on expanding the event’s reach and impact. Plans are underway to potentially add more teams and increase the number of games broadcast on national television. The ultimate goal is to create a lasting legacy that celebrates the contributions of HBCU athletes and promotes diversity within baseball. Further details regarding future expansion plans will be announced on MLB.com in the coming months.
What are your thoughts on the Andre Dawson Classic? Share your comments below and let us know which teams you’re rooting for!
