About Us

BlackOPS Hitting and Player Development is a mobile baseball training company that utilizes advanced data analytics to deliver personalized training to athletes. We focus on player development, using data to guide every aspect of the training process. Unlike traditional training facilities, we operate with a flexible model, training athletes at any available location, which allows us to avoid overhead costs associated with maintaining a physical facility.

Origin

Our name, BlackOPS, has a dual meaning, each of which speaks to the unique values and approach we bring to the table. First, the term "BlackOPS" is a nod to its military origin, where it refers to a mission or campaign that is secretive or concealed. Similarly, we approach training with a direct and no-nonsense mindset: we come in, get straight to work, and focus on the process to achieve our desired results. While we create an environment where learning and fun are encouraged, our training sessions are highly structured, leveraging cutting-edge technology to provide objective, measurable feedback. Players can clearly understand their performance metrics, ensuring they are equipped with the tools to develop efficiently and effectively.

The acronym "OPS" or O.P.S also stands for On-base Plus Slugging, a respected SaberMetric statistic in baseball that combines a player's on-base percentage and slugging percentage. OPS is a vital measure of a player's ability to get on base and hit for power—two critical skills that we focus on developing in every athlete we train.

Our Team

Sherman Graves

Founder

Sherman Graves is a former professional baseball player and certified hitting and pitching coach across multiple platforms, dedicated to modern player development. Born and raised in Covington, Georgia, Sherman starred at Newton High School, where he excelled on the baseball field before continuing his career at Savannah State University and Reinhardt University. At Savannah State he competed as a pitcher and and later at Reinhardt he transitioned to the offensive side full time. He garnered 1st team all conference selection, manning the middle of the lineup that lead the Eagles to the NAIA Baseball World Series.
After college, Sherman went on to play professional baseball in independent leagues, including a standout 2019 season with the Santa Fe Fuego, where he was the triple crown winner & MVP award selection. Later he would play for teams teams like the Lincoln Salt Dogs, Gary Southshore RailCats & Winnipeg Goldeyes.
Following his playing career, Sherman transitioned to coaching and player development. Keynote: During his professional career, he dedicated several offseasons (2017–2023) to training in Seattle,Wa within the Driveline Baseball system.
, blending biomechanical analysis, data-driven testing, and practical coaching application to help hitters maximize performance. Throughout his time time training their he also coached with their prestigious Driveline Youth Academy. Today he owns and operates Atlanta Elite Baseball Academy & Black OPS Hitting and Player Development, working with players and programs to build measurable, modern offensive systems rooted in performance data and advanced training methodologies.

Our values

Player Development First: Everything we do is geared towards helping athletes improve their skills and performance.
Data-Driven: We utilize advanced technology to provide objective feedback and analytics that guide our training methods.
Flexibility: We train athletes at any location to provide convenience and reduce costs for both us and our clients.
Efficiency: Our equipment is easy to set up and adaptable to various environments, ensuring a seamless training experience.
Structured Yet Fun: While we maintain a structured training regimen, we emphasize an engaging and enjoyable learning environment that promotes continuous improvement.