Randy Flores #1 of Alabama State University celebrates the winning run during the HBCU Swingman Classic at T-Mobile Park on Friday in Seattle, Washington. The event is part of MLB's efforts to recruit Black American players. Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images hide caption

toggle caption

Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images

Baseball was once known for breaking racial barriers in the U.S. But now, Black representation in the major leagues is at its lowest level in decades.

This year, MLB did something to try and change that, by staging the first annual HBCU Swingman Classic. It's an opportunity for players from historically Black colleges and universities to play in front of scouts and executives on a national stage.

NPR's Juana Summers reports from Seattle on MLB's efforts to reverse the decline and recruit Black American players.

In participating regions, you'll also hear a local news segment to help you make sense of what's going on in your community.

Email us atThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

This episode was produced by Jonaki Mehta and Marc Rivers. It was edited by Justine Kenin and Adam Raney. Our executive producer is Sami Yenigun.

Trying to Reverse the Decline of Black Players in Major League Baseball