Tennessee is set to make MLB history tonight.
The inaugural MLB Speedway Classic will feature a regular season game between the Atlanta Braves and the Cincinnati Reds, taking place on the infield at Bristol Motor Speedway. This game is also notable as it marks MLB’s first event held in Tennessee and aims to set a new single-game attendance record.
Yes, you read that right—baseball on a racetrack! A field has been constructed in the turns between three and four at the Bristol Motor Speedway. It resembles traditional layouts, with foul lines measuring 330 feet on both sides and 400 feet to center field. Interestingly, the distance to the left center gap is slightly longer at 384 feet compared to right center, which is 375 feet.
MLB shared a glimpse of the official field layout in a tweet, highlighting this unique sporting event.
The current attendance record for an MLB game stands at 84,587, set back in 1954. Interestingly, over 85,000 tickets are already sold for tonight’s matchup, which will likely establish a new record.
Details about the MLB Speedway Classic:
- Teams: Atlanta Braves vs. Cincinnati Reds
- Date: August 2nd, Time: 7 PM
- Location: Bristol Motor Speedway, Tennessee
- Broadcast: FOX
- Streaming: DirectV offering a free trial
As previously noted, this will be the first MLB game in Tennessee, featuring starting pitchers with local ties. Spencer Strider of the Braves is from Knoxville, about 110 miles northwest of Bristol, while Cincinnati’s Chase Burns hails from Gallatin and previously played at the University of Tennessee.
If you’re interested in witnessing this historic night, here’s what you need to know.
When does the MLB Speedway Classic start?
The game is scheduled for tonight, August 2nd, with the first pitch at 7:15 PM on FOX.
How to watch the MLB Speedway Classic for free:
For those without cable or antennas, a live TV streaming service can allow you to catch the Speedway Classic for free. DirectV, for instance, offers a five-day free trial. Other options include FuboTV with a seven-day trial and Hulu + Live TV with a three-day trial.
