BIRMINGHAM, AL — Southern University Jaguars and Florida A&M Rattlers will meet in a pivotal elimination match-up Thursday afternoon on day two of the 2026 Southwestern Athletic Conference Baseball Tournament at historic Rickwood Field.
First pitch is scheduled for 3 p.m. as both programs look to keep their championship hopes alive in one of college baseball's most iconic venues.
Southern enters the contest seeking momentum after an up-and-down finish to the regular season. The Jaguars have relied heavily on timely hitting and aggressive base running throughout conference play, while their pitching staff aims to contain a Florida A&M lineup capable of producing runs in bunches.
The Rattlers arrive in Birmingham with confidence after one of their strongest stretches of the season. Florida A&M has leaned on consistent offensive production and solid bullpen performances to remain in contention in the SWAC postseason race.
Thursday's match-up could come down to execution in key situations, particularly with runners in scoring position and late-inning relief pitching expected to play a major role in the tournament setting.
Rickwood Field, widely recognized as America's oldest professional baseball park, provides a historic backdrop for the conference tournament and continues to draw attention across the college baseball landscape.
The winner of Thursday afternoon's game advances to play Friday at 3 PM, while the losing team faces elimination from SWAC championship contention.
For Southern, Thursday's contest represents more than just another postseason game. The Jaguars bring one of the SWAC's richest baseball traditions into Rickwood Field, a program built on decades of championship success, passionate support and a legacy of producing standout players throughout the conference and beyond. With that history behind them, Southern will look to add another memorable chapter as the Jaguars battle to keep their tournament run alive Thursday afternoon in Birmingham.
First Pitch: 3 p.m.
Opponent: Florida A&M University
Location: Rickwood Field
TV: SWAC TV
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