MLB's Epic Showdown: Reds vs. Braves at Bristol Motor Speedway

The Cincinnati Reds and the Atlanta Braves are set to face off in a once-in-a-lifetime event: the Major League Baseball Speedway Classic at Tennessee's iconic Bristol Motor Speedway. This groundbreaking game, scheduled for Saturday, August 2, 2025, at 7:00 PM ET, will be broadcast nationally on FOX, announced today by Major League Baseball.

The MLB Speedway Classic will be the first-ever American or National League game played in Tennessee. The state joins a prestigious list that includes North Carolina, Nebraska, Iowa, and Alabama as hosts of inaugural AL or NL contests since 2016.

A full-sized baseball diamond will be constructed across the famed Bristol track to accommodate this extraordinary event, transforming the high-speed oval into a stage for America's pastime.

The Cincinnati Reds and Atlanta Braves, two storied franchises with passionate fan bases, are the perfect rivals for this historic showdown. As Commissioner of Baseball Robert D. Manfred, Jr. stated, "The Reds and the Braves form an ideal matchup because of their dynamic talent and the proximity of their markets."

Beyond the game, the MLB Speedway Classic promises to celebrate sports and community. As Major League Baseball Commissioner Paul Manfred said in the press release: "We look forward to celebrating our game with a wide array of fans, both on and off the field throughout the weekend, and highlighting the rich traditions of sports, music and community in Tennessee and across the region."

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "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. Baseball is a great American brand that belongs in Tennessee, and we look forward to welcoming Reds and Braves fans to Bristol while ensuring continued economic growth and prosperity across the Volunteer State."

The MLB Speedway Classic is the latest in a series of groundbreaking events that have brought Major League Baseball to unique and unforgettable locations. From the MLB at Fort Bragg to the Field of Dreams game, these experiences have captured the imagination of fans worldwide.

As Reds President and Chief Executive Officer Phil Castellini stated, "The Reds are excited to be the home team for this unforgettable first at the Bristol Motor Speedway. Thank you to Major League Baseball for making this groundbreaking game happen."

Atlanta Braves President and CEO Derek Schiller echoed the sentiment: "It is an honor for our organization to be a part of Major League Baseball's Speedway Classic. Bristol Motor Speedway is sure to offer one of the most exciting and memorable experiences in our game's history."

Known as "The Last Great Colosseum," Bristol Motor Speedway is a legendary venue that has hosted countless iconic sporting events. The stadium-like atmosphere and passionate fanbase make it the ideal setting for this historic baseball game.

Jerry Caldwell, President and General Manager of Bristol Motor Speedway, expressed excitement about the event: "On behalf of the team at Bristol Motor Speedway and Speedway Motorsports, we are thrilled to partner with Major League Baseball to bring the Speedway Classic to the 'Home of Big Events' on August 2, 2025. There is deep baseball history in Bristol and around this area... We're ready; let's play ball at Bristol, Baby!"