Bristol, Tennessee, September 18, 2025
News Summary
The match between the Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds faced significant rain delays leading to its suspension. Initially set for 7:15 p.m. ET, the game finally started at 9:40 p.m. ET but was halted shortly after as the Reds led 1-0. It is scheduled to resume on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET. Despite the weather, an impressive attendance of 91,032 was recorded, setting a new MLB attendance record for Tennessee.
Bristol, Tennessee – The highly anticipated match-up between the Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds at Bristol Motor Speedway faced significant disruptions due to rain, leading to a lengthy delay and ultimately the suspension of the game. Initially scheduled to begin at 7:15 p.m. ET, the start of the game was delayed by 2.5 hours, with the first pitch finally thrown at 9:40 p.m. ET. Unfortunately, only a fraction of the game transpired before rain forced another delay.
With the Reds leading 1-0 after a single by Austin Hays, the game was suspended and is set to resume on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET. The Braves had to make a last-minute change in their starting pitcher; Spencer Strider was scratched from the lineup due to the delays after having already warmed up. Austin Cox, a left-handed reliever, took over as the starting pitcher instead. The Reds maintained their starter, Chase Burns, a 22-year-old Tennessee native who competes in his home state.
Despite the weather interruptions, both teams, spectators, and event management had high hopes for the evening. The pregame festivities included performances by popular artists such as Pitbull and Tim McGraw, along with a stirring rendition of the national anthem by U.S. Navy Musician First Class Kathryn Dobyns. The event was further enlivened by a flyover featuring four U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornets.
Even amidst the downpour, many fans stayed on-site, eager to witness history and break the MLB’s all-time regular-season single-game attendance record. The record was indeed shattered, with a paid attendance of 91,032 reported, making it the highest attendance in Tennessee for an MLB regular-season game.
The grounds crew made efforts to prepare the field, including removing the tarp around 8:50 p.m. ET and draining the field. However, rain returned shortly thereafter, necessitating the reinstallation of the tarp. In preparation for the upcoming NASCAR race on September 13, the Speedway must dismantle the baseball setup immediately after the game resumes.
The transformation of Bristol Motor Speedway into a baseball diamond required considerable logistical efforts, including leveling the infield with gravel and applying clay for the playing surface. Bristol has previously hosted large-scale events such as college football games, and following this baseball event, NHL officials have expressed interest in utilizing the venue for future games.
Upcoming Schedule
The suspended game between the Braves and Reds will continue on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET, with both teams and their fans hoping for improved weather conditions. MLB’s senior vice president of on-field operations expressed his optimism about the forecast for Sunday.
Key Event Facts
- Game Scheduled: Atlanta Braves vs. Cincinnati Reds
- Original Start Time: 7:15 p.m. ET
- Actual First Pitch: 9:40 p.m. ET
- Game Delay: 2.5 hours before start
- Attendance: 91,032 (New MLS Record for Tennessee)
- Suspension of Game: Leads to resumption scheduled for Sunday at 1 p.m. ET
Background
The event was meticulously prepared, with significant logistics involved in transforming the raceway into a baseball field. The high attendance figures underscore the excitement surrounding the event, despite the weather challenges faced by those involved. The Braves and Reds now prepare for an unexpected continuation of the game, adding another layer of intrigue and anticipation for fans across the region and beyond.
FAQs
What happened to the Braves vs. Reds game at Bristol Motor Speedway?
The game faced multiple rain delays and was ultimately suspended after less than a full inning of play. It is scheduled to resume on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET.
What was the attendance for the event?
The paid attendance for the event was recorded at 91,032, a new record for an MLB regular-season game in Tennessee.
When is the suspended game going to resume?
The game is scheduled to resume on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET.
Why did the Braves change their starting pitcher?
Spencer Strider was scratched from the lineup due to the lengthy delay that occurred before the game started.
Who were the performers at the pregame festivities?
The pregame included performances by Pitbull and Tim McGraw.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Atlanta Braves vs. Cincinnati Reds |
| Scheduled Start Time | 7:15 p.m. ET |
| Actual Start Time | 9:40 p.m. ET |
| Attendance | 91,032 |
| Rescheduled Date | Sunday at 1 p.m. ET |
| Winning Pitcher | Chase Burns (Cincinnati Reds) |
| Significant Guest Performers | Pitbull, Tim McGraw |
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Additional Resources
- AOL
- Wikipedia: Bristol Motor Speedway
- ESPN
- Google Search: MLB Speedway Classic
- AP News
- Google Scholar: MLB Speedway Classic
- NBC News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bristol Motor Speedway
- Fox Sports
- 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.
