BRISTOL, Tenn., August 3, 2025 – In an unprecedented event blending baseball and NASCAR, the Atlanta Braves defeated the Cincinnati Reds 4-2 in the MLB Speedway Classic held at Bristol Motor Speedway, overcoming a rain suspension that stretched the game from Saturday night to Sunday afternoon.
The unique ballgame, the first regular-season MLB contest played in Tennessee and the first at a NASCAR speedway, was originally set for a Saturday night start but was halted after just four outs due to persistent rain. The suspension forced the game to resume the following day, providing both teams a challenging pause amid an enthusiastic crowd that had witnessed ceremonial first pitches by Hall of Famers Johnny Bench and Chipper Jones alongside NASCAR stars Kyle Busch and Chase Elliott.
The Braves’ victory was fueled largely by outfielder Eli White, who made history as the first player to hit two home runs in an MLB game played at a NASCAR track. White’s first homer was a monumental three-run shot in the second inning off Reds’ pitcher Brent Suter, clearing both the outfield wall and the track itself, putting Atlanta ahead 3-1. White would later add a solo homer in the seventh inning, contributing significantly to the Braves’ four-run tally.
Pitching was pivotal for Atlanta’s triumph. Hurston Waldrep, a promising talent ranked as the Braves’ No. 4 prospect, earned his first Major League win after being called up from Triple-A Gwinnett. Waldrep took the mound when the game resumed Sunday morning, managing five and two-thirds innings with only one run allowed, effectively stabilizing the Braves’ defense and thwarting a Cincinnati bullpen desperate to rally.
The Reds, who came into the game having split two earlier season matches with the Braves, struggled with runners in scoring position, going a mere 1-for-8 and leaving 12 men stranded on the bases. They threatened in the eighth inning, loading the bases with two outs following a balk and a walk, but a spectacular diving stop by Braves third baseman Luke Williams ended the threat with a force out at second base.
This clash also marked the first time in six meetings between these teams this season that the outcome was decided by more than a single run, highlighting the intensity of this special event.
Adding to the spectacle, the Speedway Classic event featured racing-inspired uniforms and a pregame concert with Grammy winners Tim McGraw and Pitbull, embracing the motorsports culture and providing fans a memorable crossover experience between major league baseball and NASCAR.
Looking ahead, the Braves plan to start RHP Erick Fedde against the Milwaukee Brewers Monday, while the Reds will have LHP Nick Lodolo facing the Chicago Cubs the same day.
The 2025 MLB Speedway Classic at Bristol Motor Speedway will be remembered not only for the innovative venue and festive atmosphere but also for the outstanding performances that made this historic game a standout moment in the baseball season.