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SUNO to Host Inaugural Ron Washington Baseball Classic at MLB Youth Academy

SUNO to Host Inaugural Ron Washington Baseball Classic at MLB Youth Academy
January 19, 2026

Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO) will host the inaugural Ron Washington Baseball Classic, bringing six Historically Black Colleges and Universities to Wesley Barrow Stadium—home of the MLB Youth Academy—for four days of collegiate baseball competition Feb. 5–8, 2025.

The event is named in honor of Ron Washington, the New Orleans native and former Major League player and manager known across baseball for his teaching, leadership, and commitment to developing athletes on and off the field. Washington, a John McDonogh High School graduate, has built a national reputation for excellence and mentorship within the sport.

"I am deeply honored that this event has been named after me," said Ron Washington. "Baseball has given me so much, and I hope this tournament not only celebrates the sport but also inspires the next generation of players. Let's continue to grow the love of baseball."

"This Classic is bigger than baseball—it's a celebration of New Orleans, HBCU excellence, and the kind of leadership Coach Ron Washington represents," said James A. Matthews, III, Director of Athletics at Southern University at New Orleans. "We're proud to host these outstanding programs at the MLB Youth Academy and create an experience that inspires young people while showcasing the talent and discipline of our student-athletes."

Designed to spotlight HBCU baseball while creating community-driven experiences, the Classic will feature marquee matchups, youth engagement, and a celebration of Washington's legacy in the city where his baseball journey began.

"This tournament is about more than baseball," said Eddie Davis, Director of the MLB New Orleans Youth Academy. "It's about honoring HBCU programs, creating visibility for student-athletes, and reinforcing a pathway from youth baseball to the collegiate and professional levels. Named after a man who has been a coach and mentor to myself, as well as many great players, the Rob Washington Classic is an appropriate tribute to the legacy of Ron Washington and the event's intention of raising the visibility of great players from HBCUs."

Participating Teams

NAIA

  • Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO) (New Orleans, La.) — Host
  • Xavier University of Louisiana (New Orleans, La.)
  • Rust College (Holly Springs, Miss.)

NCAA Division II

  • Morehouse College (Atlanta, Ga.)
  • Miles College (Birmingham, Ala.)
  • Lane College (Jackson, Tenn.)

Event Highlights

  • Open Batting Practice (Free to the public): Thursday, Feb. 5, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
  • Ceremonial First Pitch: Coach Ron Washington, Friday, Feb. 7
  • Middle School Day: Area middle school students will attend games on Feb. 7 to learn more about baseball while enjoying a day at the ballpark
  • Greek Day: Saturday, Feb. 8 — Greeks receive half-price admission with organization paraphernalia

Tickets

Tickets are available now starting at $15 per day or $40 for a weekend pass. Fans can purchase tickets at the Wesley Barrow Stadium box office on game days (cash and electronic payments accaepted).

Media Contact
SUNO Department of Athletics
(504) 514-4683
athletics@suno.edu

Tournament Contact
Al Robinson
(504) 259-1779
Acrobinson22@hotmail.com

-SUNOKNIGHTLIFE-

 

Home Game Tickets & Media

Season tickets will be available through SUNO Athletics at the Emmett Bashful Administration Building cashier's office. Fans can make their purchase in person or by calling (504) 286-5321. Admission is $10 for baseball single games and $15 for doubleheaders.

 

Media inquiries, interview requests, and credential applications should be directed to athletics@suno.edu.

 

Stay up to date on sunoathletics.com and on social media. 

Facebook/Instagram/X: @sunoathletics 

VB IG: @sunoknightsvolleyball 

WBB IG: @sunoknightswbb 

MBB IG: @sunoknightsmbb 

Baseball IG: @sunoknightsbaseball

Baseball X: @sunobsb

 

About SUNO Athletics

The Southern University at New Orleans Knights Department of Athletics emphasizes competitive excellence, academic achievement and community engagement. For the full 2025–26 schedule, rosters, and ticket information, visit sunoathletics.com and follow @sunoathletics on social media.