Bristol, Tennessee, July 30, 2025
News Summary
Major League Baseball is set to hold its first game in Tennessee, featuring the Cincinnati Reds versus the Atlanta Braves at Bristol Motor Speedway. Scheduled for August 2, this landmark matchup is expected to break the single-game attendance record, with over 85,000 tickets already sold. The field has undergone a major transformation, and notable MLB Hall of Famers will be present for the ceremonial first pitches. This innovative venue use highlights MLB’s commitment to expanding its audience and engaging fans.
Bristol, Tennessee
Major League Baseball (MLB) is preparing to stage a historic baseball game at Bristol Motor Speedway in Tennessee, featuring the Cincinnati Reds versus the Atlanta Braves on August 2, 2025. This landmark event will be the first MLB game held in Tennessee, and it is anticipated to break the league’s single-game attendance record of 84,587, set in 1954.
As of now, more than 85,000 tickets have already been sold, and the matchup will be broadcasted nationally on FOX Sports, with the first pitch slated for 7:15 p.m. ET.
Field Transformation and Setup
The preparation for this unprecedented event involved significant logistical challenges. BrightView Landscapes, designated as the Official Field Consultant for MLB, has executed a meticulous transformation of the speedway into a regulation-sized baseball field. This process spanned 30 days and required the use of nearly 18,000 tons of gravel to level the field, a stark difference from the 4,000 tons utilized for the field during the London Series.
The newly constructed field features synthetic turf from AstroTurf’s Diamond Series, designed to provide optimal playing conditions akin to those found at the Rogers Centre, home to the Toronto Blue Jays. Significant alterations were made to the speedway, including the removal of pit walls, various signs and lights, and even a portion of the Goodyear building to ensure the area meets the necessary dimensions and safety standards of a professional baseball field.
Ceremonial First Pitch Guests
Adding to the excitement of the event, MLB Hall of Famers Chipper Jones and Johnny Bench will be on hand to throw out the ceremonial first pitches. The anticipated crowd for this game will include baseball enthusiasts from all 50 states, along with attendees from Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and nine countries spanning four continents.
Innovative Venue Use
The effort to convert a racetrack into a baseball field is indicative of MLB’s commitment to bringing the sport to new audiences by utilizing existing sports venues. The organization has previously achieved similar feats with temporary baseball fields at famous locations like Rickwood Field and the Field of Dreams in Iowa.
BrightView is acknowledged for its expertise in overcoming complex land conversion challenges and has collaborated with MLB on numerous projects around the globe.
Conclusion
This unique initiative not only promises to break attendance records but also aims to expand baseball’s reach and engage fans in innovative ways. With preparations underway and significant public interest, the MLB Speedway Classic is set to become a landmark event in sports history.
FAQ Section
What is the MLB Speedway Classic?
The MLB Speedway Classic is a baseball game between the Cincinnati Reds and Atlanta Braves planned for August 2, 2025, to be held at Bristol Motor Speedway.
Will this be MLB’s first game in Tennessee?
Yes, this will be the first MLB game played in the state of Tennessee.
How many tickets have been sold?
More than 85,000 tickets have already been sold for the event.
Who will throw out the ceremonial first pitches?
MLB Hall of Famers Chipper Jones and Johnny Bench are scheduled to throw out the ceremonial first pitches.
How does the field at Bristol Motor Speedway compare to other MLB fields?
The field will be constructed using AstroTurf’s Diamond Series synthetic turf, similar to what is used at the Rogers Centre, ensuring high-quality playing conditions.
Key Features of the MLB Speedway Classic
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Teams | Cincinnati Reds vs. Atlanta Braves |
| Date | August 2, 2025 |
| Location | Bristol Motor Speedway, Tennessee |
| Expected Attendance | Over 85,000 |
| Current Record for Attendance | 84,587 (1954) |
| Television | FOX Sports |
| Ceremonial First Pitch Guests | Chipper Jones, Johnny Bench |
| Field Conversion Time | 30 Days |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
MLB Speedway Classic Set to Break Attendance Records
Speedway Classic to Set MLB Attendance Record in Bristol, TN
Bristol Motor Speedway to Host Historic MLB Game
Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds to Compete at Bristol Motor Speedway
Braves and Reds to Compete in Historic MLB Speedway Classic
Cincinnati Reds and Atlanta Braves to Play at Bristol Motor Speedway
Bristol to Host Historic MLB Game in Tennessee
MLB Speedway Classic to Boost Bristol’s Economy
Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds to Play at Bristol Motor Speedway
Cultural Experiences and Community Engagement Flourish in Bristol
Additional Resources
- ESPN
- Wikipedia: MLB
- MLB.com
- Google Search: Bristol Motor Speedway
- USA Today
- Google Scholar: Major League Baseball
- Spectrum News 1
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Baseball
- Cincinnati.com
- Google News: MLB Speedway Classic
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
