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By: Maryland Eastern Shore Athletics

After one of the greatest seasons in University of Maryland Eastern Shore baseball history, former Southside HS standout Brantley Cutler has been chosen to play in the inaugural HBCU Swingman Classic All-Star game. The event is to be held in Seattle, Washington during 2023 MLB All-Star Week on July 7 at T-Mobile Park, home of the Seattle Mariners.

“This opportunity is an honor to receive. I’m so excited to be a part of the MLB’s All-Star Week,” Cutler said. “If it wasn’t for the Lord, my coaches, and my teammates, I don’t think this would be possible. I’m proud to be representing my program and I feel like this national coverage will put UMES on the map. It’s going to be fun to work with Ken Griffey Jr and crew.”

Cutler will be joining fellow Northeast Conference student-athletes Mike Dorcean, Jordan Hamberg, and Rashad Ruff of Coppin State, Manny Jackson of Norfolk State, and Trey Paige of Delaware State in the event, as well as 44 other Division 1 HBCU players from across the country.

“Brantley had a great year for us and he is deserving of every accolade that comes his way,” Hawks interim head baseball coach Shawn Phillips said. “Now he is getting to show his talents and he is getting an opportunity to put the UMES on a National stage.”

The selections were made by Ken Griffey, Jr. — who founded the event as part of the MLBPA Youth Development Foundation — as well as representatives of the MLB and MLBPA. Cutler will be given the opportunity to participate in both MLB All-Star Week activities and events in the community.

Teams will be coached by former MLB managers Jerry Manuel and Bo Porter, with Cutler taking up a designated hitter/utility role on Team Porter.