Bristol, Tennessee, August 2, 2025
News Summary
Bristol, Tennessee, is set to host the first Major League Baseball game at Bristol Motor Speedway this weekend, featuring the Atlanta Braves against the Cincinnati Reds. With over 85,000 tickets sold, this game is poised to break attendance records, drawing over 100,000 fans. The spectacle includes the addition of 215 lights, a unique field construction, and advanced broadcasting technology. Country music star Tim McGraw will perform at a pregame concert as baseball expands its reach to new markets.
Bristol, Tennessee is set to host a historic event this weekend as the Atlanta Braves face off against the Cincinnati Reds in the MLB Speedway Classic on Saturday, August 2. This game marks the first time a Major League Baseball game will take place at the Bristol Motor Speedway.
The highly anticipated game will kick off at 7:15 p.m. ET, with a special broadcast by Fox starting at 6 p.m. ET. The event has already attracted significant interest, with over 85,000 tickets sold, which is expected to set a new MLB regular-season attendance record. The current record of 84,587 was established on September 12, 1954, during a game at Cleveland Stadium. Attendance for this historic event is anticipated to exceed 100,000 fans.
To accommodate the large crowd, extensive preparations have been made, including the installation of 215 lights to enhance the lighting for the game and the construction of a baseball field that required 17,500 tons of gravel and 340 tons of Pennsylvania clay. The playing surface consists of artificial grass, similar to that used by the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre.
Unique broadcasting technology will be utilized during the game, with 40 cameras employed by Fox Sports. Highlights of the equipment include an UmpCam at home plate, drone shots from Beverly Hills Aerials, and in-car cameras mounted on bullpen vehicles. A rover camera, known as the RC Car Camera, will capture diverse pregame footage, ensuring a dynamic viewing experience.
Notably, Chipper Jones, a Hall of Famer from the Braves, will throw the ceremonial first pitch to Reds Hall of Famer Johnny Bench. Adding to the entertainment, country music artist Tim McGraw is scheduled to headline a pregame concert at the Speedway.
The game is part of MLB’s broader strategy to expand its reach by bringing baseball to new markets and fan demographics. Following the event, the field will be dismantled immediately, with some construction materials being donated to East Tennessee State University. The process included about 100-150 workers for demolition and around 400 workers dedicated to building the baseball infield.
Field dimensions for the Speedway Classic are set at 330 feet down the foul lines and 400 feet to center field. Both teams will wear NASCAR-inspired special uniforms during the game, celebrating the unique venue.
The Braves currently hold a 46-62 record and sit in fourth place in the NL East, while the Reds boast a 57-53 record and are in third place in the NL Central. As part of the fan experience, a dedicated fan zone will be established at the Speedway, featuring various entertainment and activities beyond the baseball game.
Background of Bristol Motor Speedway
The Bristol Motor Speedway has previously hosted significant sporting events, including the Battle at Bristol, a college football game in 2016 that set an NCAA attendance record with 156,990 fans. The venue’s flexibility allows it to accommodate various sporting events, making it an ideal location for this historic MLB game.
Event Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Teams | Atlanta Braves vs. Cincinnati Reds |
| Date & Time | Saturday, August 2, at 7:15 p.m. ET |
| Broadcast | Fox, starting at 6 p.m. ET |
| Expected Attendance | Over 100,000 |
| Lighting | 215 lights added |
| Special Features | Tim McGraw concert, UmpCam, Drone footage |
| Field Size | 330 feet foul lines, 400 feet center |
FAQ
What is the MLB Speedway Classic?
The MLB Speedway Classic is a Major League Baseball game between the Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds, taking place at Bristol Motor Speedway on August 2, making it the first MLB game held at this venue.
What time does the game start and where can I watch it?
The game is scheduled to start at 7:15 p.m. ET and will be broadcast live on Fox starting at 6 p.m. ET.
How many tickets have been sold for the game?
Over 85,000 tickets have already been sold, and the total attendance may exceed 100,000, potentially setting a new MLB regular-season attendance record.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Historic MLB Game Set for Bristol, Tennessee
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Additional Resources
- Knox News
- Wikipedia: Bristol Motor Speedway
- USA Today
- Google Search: MLB Speedway Classic
- NASCAR
- Google Scholar: Bristol Motor Speedway
- MLB.com
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bristol Motor Speedway
- NBC News
- 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.
