MLB Speedway Classic Aims for Historic Attendance

BRISTOL, Tenn. — Cincinnati Reds manager Terry Francona was struck by the impressive scale of Bristol Motor Speedway as the team arrived on Saturday. The venue’s sheer size is noteworthy, being capable of accommodating two baseball fields.

Francona expressed his approval of the extensive preparations, remarking, “When you get outside of the field, it’s actually pretty cool,” referring to the stands that encircle the playing area.

Unfortunately, the game against the Atlanta Braves was marred by a lengthy rain delay lasting 2 hours and 17 minutes, which began right after ceremonial first pitches thrown by Hall of Famers Chipper Jones and Johnny Bench, alongside NASCAR drivers Kyle Busch and Chase Elliott.

After Atlanta’s quick three outs in the first inning, another rain delay occurred following an RBI single by Austin Hays for Cincinnati. The game was ultimately suspended and is scheduled to resume at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday.

The pre-game rain delay prompted the Braves to alter their starting pitcher. Spencer Strider, a local favorite from Knoxville, received a warmer reception than Reds’ Chase Burns, although Cincinnati opted to stick with Burns during the delay.

The MLB Speedway Classic, part of Rob Manfred’s initiative to expand MLB’s reach, follows previous unique games held at the “Field of Dreams” site and other locations. Now, it’s Tennessee’s turn to host a Major League game despite lacking a home team.

Cincinnati and Atlanta players enjoyed the electrifying atmosphere, with fans treated to a variety of pre-game festivities, including a Ferris wheel, food trucks, and live performances. Overall, more than 85,000 tickets were sold, setting a record for attendance at an MLB regular-season game.