CHICAGO — History will be made at the Friendly Confines this spring as the inaugural Chicago HBCU Baseball Classic debuts at Wrigley Field on Saturday, May 2, 2026. Following the conclusion of the Chicago Cubs' regularly scheduled game earlier that day, Prairie View A&M University and Alabama A&M University will take the field in an evening matchup that celebrates baseball, culture, and HBCU excellence.

The landmark event marks the first time two Historically Black Colleges and Universities will compete in a baseball game at Wrigley Field, the iconic home of the Chicago Cubs. Admission to the Chicago HBCU Baseball Classic will be free to the public, though tickets are required.

Beyond the on-field action, game day will showcase the rich traditions of HBCU culture. Fans can expect spirited marching band performances, interactive fan activations, and a vibrant atmosphere that reflects the pride and legacy of HBCUs. The Classic is designed to mirror the energy and impact of traditional HBCU football classics while placing a national spotlight on Black excellence in baseball.

In the days leading up to the game, organizers will host youth baseball clinics, educational programming, and community-centered events at partner locations throughout Chicago. These initiatives aim to inspire young people, provide access to the sport, and strengthen ties between HBCUs and the Chicago community.

"Our mission is to elevate the next generation of talent and expand opportunity in Black baseball," said Earnest Horton, CEO of Black Baseball Media and organizer of the Classic. "With the support of the Chicago Cubs, bringing this Classic to Wrigley Field allows us to build a baseball tradition that mirrors the decades-long impact of the Chicago Football Classic—ensuring HBCUs remain a vibrant part of Chicago's sports DNA."

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson emphasized the historical significance of the venue and the moment. "The first-ever HBCU game at Wrigley Field is a historic milestone for Chicago and for the future of baseball," Johnson said. "Wrigley Field is the only ballpark where Jackie Robinson played that still stands today, making it a powerful place to write the next chapter of Black baseball history. This event honors the legacy of African Americans in the sport while inspiring young people across our city to see themselves in baseball, in higher education, and in leadership."

Chicago Cubs Executive Chairman Tom Ricketts echoed that sentiment, highlighting the broader impact of the Classic. "We're proud to welcome the HBCU Baseball Classic to Wrigley Field and highlight the cultural richness HBCUs bring to the sport," Ricketts said. "Historic events like the Classic unite communities and inspire the next generation of athletes to dream big, following in the footsteps of Hall of Famers and HBCU alumni Andre Dawson and Lou Brock."

Tickets for the Chicago HBCU Baseball Classic are available free of charge to the public (CLICK HERE). Fans can reserve their seats by visiting Cubs.com/HBCUBaseballClassic.