News Summary
Major League Baseball is gearing up for its first-ever game in Tennessee at the Bristol Motor Speedway, featuring a much-anticipated match between the Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds. Scheduled for August 2, the event will not only display baseball at one of the fastest tracks but will also feature a major pregame concert. With capacity for nearly 150,000 spectators, this historic event is set to attract record crowds as baseball fans flock to Bristol.
Bristol, TN – Major League Baseball is set to make history in Tennessee with the inaugural 2025 MLB Speedway Classic, scheduled for August 2, 2025, at the iconic Bristol Motor Speedway. Featuring a thrilling matchup between the Atlanta Braves and the Cincinnati Reds, this highly anticipated game aims to draw a record crowd to what is regarded as the world’s fastest half-mile track.
The first pitch is slated for 7:15 p.m. ET and will be broadcasted nationally on FOX. Fans can secure their tickets now through Ticketmaster, with prices starting at $35. Furthermore, an exclusive no-fee offer is available at $30 until July 6.
In this highly-anticipated regular-season game, the Cincinnati Reds will take on the Braves as the home team. This matchup follows two preceding games between the same teams in Cincinnati on July 31 and August 1, with August 3 designated as an off-day in case of inclement weather.
With substantial preparations underway, Andrew Carrier, owner of All-American Campground, is getting his campsite ready for the influx of visitors expected for the event. A prominent countdown sign highlighting the MLB Speedway Classic is currently displayed next to the “It’s Bristol, Baby!” sign at the venue.
In addition to the game, the event will include a star-studded pregame concert featuring performances by Tim McGraw, Pitbull, and Jake Owen. The concert will kick off approximately one hour before the first pitch and will be featured during the pregame coverage on FOX.
Significant Features of the Venue
Bristol Motor Speedway, often dubbed “Thunder Valley,” has a stellar reputation not just for its speedway events but also for its impressive capacity. With the capability to accommodate nearly 150,000 spectators, it has previously hosted record-breaking events, including a college football game that attracted 156,990 fans.
For this baseball game, an elaborate baseball field will be constructed across the track and infield, primarily located between Turns 3 and 4. The field’s dimensions will feature 330 feet down each foul line, 400 feet to center field, and 375 feet and 384 feet to the right and left-field alleys, respectively. Installation of the synthetic grass, known as Diamond Series—the same type used by the Toronto Blue Jays—is expected to commence soon.
To ensure optimal visibility for players and spectators alike, Major League Baseball will install a total of 215 lights throughout the venue. In addition, a 220,000-square-foot Fan Zone will welcome fans on game day, featuring interactive games, food, musical performances, and even a Ferris wheel.
Historical Significance
This event will mark a milestone in sporting history, representing the first MLB game ever played in the state of Tennessee. As excitement builds around the MLB Speedway Classic, expectations are high for what could be a memorable night for baseball fans and the community in Bristol, TN.
With numerous activities planned around the MLB Speedway Classic, along with its setting in a venue steeped in motorsport history, the event is geared to be a unique experience for fans of all ages.
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Additional Resources
- MLB News
- Wikipedia: Bristol Motor Speedway
- Johnson City Press
- Google Search: MLB Speedway Classic
- Speedway Digest
- Google Scholar: MLB Speedway Classic
- Knox News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: MLB Speedway Classic
- AP 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.
