UPDATE: The highly anticipated MLB Speedway Classic between the Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds at Bristol Motor Speedway has been suspended due to rain, leaving fans and players in a state of disappointment. The game, which kicked off with a historic record-breaking crowd on July 15, 2023, will resume tomorrow at 1 PM ET.
The game was interrupted just moments after the ceremonial first pitch featuring Hall of Famers Johnny Bench and Chipper Jones, alongside NASCAR stars Kyle Busch and Chase Elliott. After a brief delay of 2 hours and 17 minutes, heavy rain led to a full postponement with the Reds leading 1-0.
MLB officials expressed optimism for better weather tomorrow. “
We are going to suspend tonight’s game… We are optimistic for a better weather forecast for tomorrow,
” said Michael Hill, MLB’s senior vice president of on-field operations, during a live interview with Fox.
Fans braved the rain to enjoy pre-game festivities, including live music from Tim McGraw and Pitbull, a 110-foot Ferris wheel, and food trucks, all set against the backdrop of the historic racetrack. Despite the weather, the excitement was palpable as players rode around the track in pickup trucks, showcasing their team colors.
The game itself was set to be a milestone event, with a crowd exceeding 85,000 fans—breaking the previous attendance record of 84,587 from 1954. The Speedway Classic is part of MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred‘s initiative to bring baseball to new audiences, similar to previous events at the Field of Dreams site in Iowa.
However, the weather quickly turned, causing disruptions before the game could officially begin. Players faced challenges on the damp field, with a bat slipping from Reds player TJ Friedl‘s grip during his first at-bat. The Braves had switched their starting pitcher due to the rain delays, but the excitement remained high among fans and players alike.
As the rain continued, some fans began to head for the exits, but many are expected to return tomorrow for the rescheduled game. The Braves and Reds will look to make history once again as they take the field in what promises to be an unforgettable matchup.
Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops. Fans are encouraged to check local weather reports and prepare for a thrilling resumption of the game on Sunday!
