On August 2, 2025, Major League Baseball (MLB) will host the inaugural "MLB Speedway Classic," featuring a regular-season game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Atlanta Braves at Bristol Motor Speedway in Bristol, Tennessee. This event marks the first American or National League game ever played in Tennessee, transforming the renowned NASCAR venue into a unique baseball setting.

Event Details

• Date and Time: Saturday, August 2, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. ET.
• Venue: Bristol Motor Speedway, Bristol, Tennessee.
• Teams: Cincinnati Reds (home team) vs. Atlanta Braves.
• Broadcast: Nationally televised on FOX.

Venue Transformation

A baseball field will be constructed within the infield of Bristol Motor Speedway, primarily in Turns 3 and 4, converting the iconic NASCAR track into a baseball diamond. This transformation is part of MLB's initiative to bring baseball to non-traditional venues, following previous games at unique locations such as the "Field of Dreams" site in Iowa.

Ticket Information

• General Public Sale: Tickets went on sale on December 5, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. ET.
• Purchase Platforms: Tickets are available online through Ticketmaster.
• Pricing: Dynamic pricing is in effect, with prices fluctuating based on supply and demand.
• Delivery: All tickets are digital and accessible via the MLB Ballpark app or Ticketmaster app.

Charitable Contributions

Proceeds from ticket sales during December 2024 were committed to supporting Hurricane Helene relief efforts. A total of $50,000 was donated, split evenly between Appalachia Service Project and Mountain Ways, two nonprofits dedicated to aiding affected communities.

Venue Background: Bristol Motor Speedway

Known as "The Last Great Colosseum," Bristol Motor Speedway is a historic venue primarily recognized for its NASCAR events. Established in 1961, the speedway has a seating capacity of approximately 146,000, making it one of the largest sports venues in the United States. The stadium-like structure has hosted various events, including concerts and football games, notably the 2016 "Battle at Bristol" between the University of Tennessee and Virginia Tech, which set a record attendance of 156,990.

Statements from Officials

• MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred: "Major League Baseball is excited to deliver a special game at Bristol Motor Speedway, a unique setting that sports fans will remember forever. The Reds and the Braves form an ideal matchup because of their dynamic talent and the proximity of their markets."

• Tennessee Governor Bill Lee: "Tennessee has a remarkable history of hosting sporting events on the national stage, and we’re honored to host the first Major League Baseball game of its kind in state history."

Social and Economic Implications

Hosting the MLB Speedway Classic in Tennessee signifies MLB's commitment to expanding its reach and engaging with fans in regions without a major league team. The event is expected to draw a substantial crowd, potentially setting new attendance records for a baseball game. The influx of visitors is anticipated to provide a significant economic boost to the local community, benefiting hotels, restaurants, and other businesses.

Historical Context

This event continues MLB's trend of hosting games in unique venues to celebrate the sport's history and connect with diverse fan bases. Previous examples include games at the "Field of Dreams" site in Iowa and the "MLB at Fort Bragg" game in North Carolina. The MLB Speedway Classic will be the first MLB game played in Tennessee, adding to the league's efforts to bring baseball to new audiences.

The MLB Speedway Classic represents a fusion of baseball and motorsports cultures, offering fans a unique experience and highlighting MLB's commitment to innovation and community engagement.