🏆 Morning Recap-Speedway Classic Resumes

Speedway Classic Resumes-Braves Triumph 4–2 in Speedway Classic Finale at Bristol

The Atlanta Braves stormed back to beat the Cincinnati Reds 4–2 in the rain-delayed MLB Speedway Classic at Bristol Motor Speedway, turning it into a historic and unforgettable victory.

A crowd of 91,032 fans—a record for a regular-season MLB game—witnessed baseball collide with NASCAR in Tennessee’s first-ever major league baseball event.

💥 How Atlanta Sealed the Win

• Eli White was the star of the game, launching a three-run homer in the 2nd inning (giving the Braves a 3–1 lead) and a solo shot in the 7th, finishing with a stellar 4 RBI day. 
• Hurston Waldrep, making his MLB debut, delivered 5⅔ innings of one-run ball to earn his first career win after being called up from Triple-A that morning. 
• The Reds had a 1–0 lead entering Sunday, based on an RBI knock by Austin Hays before Saturday’s rain suspension. Rookie Chase Burns struck out two in a perfect inning before becoming unavailable. 
• Despite a spirited comeback attempt, Cincinnati left 12 men on base and went just 1-for-8 with runners in scoring position.

In the end, the Speedway Classic delivered far more than a novelty—it gave baseball a bold new stage and fans a game to remember. From Eli White’s heroics to Hurston Waldrep’s dream debut, the Braves’ 4–2 victory capped a weekend of firsts with flair. Whether it’s the roaring crowd of 91,000 or the image of a baseball diamond laid across a NASCAR track, this game etched its place in MLB history—and it may not be the last of its kind.

Sports Betting Disclaimer: All betting content is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Sports betting involves significant financial risk and may lead to losses. Please gamble responsibly and only wager what you can afford to lose. You must be 21 or the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction to participate. This blog is not affiliated with any sportsbooks or sports leagues unless explicitly stated. Some links may be affiliate links, meaning we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Our content is not professional betting advice. Betting is prohibited in some jurisdictions; ensure compliance with local laws before participating.

Braves vs. Reds at Bristol Motor Speedway: What to Watch, Who to Bet On

Tonight, August 2, 2025, the Atlanta Braves face the Cincinnati Reds in the inaugural MLB Speedway Classic, hosted at Bristol Motor Speedway. Over 85,000 fans are expected in the stands, breaking the record for regular-season attendance. The NASCAR venue has been transformed into a baseball diamond, and the energy will be off the charts.

Pitching Matchup: Spencer Strider vs. Chase Burns

For Atlanta, Spencer Strider returns from Tommy John surgery and brings a 5–8 record, 3.71 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, and 92 strikeouts in 77.2 innings. Over his last 9 starts, he’s posted a 2.91 ERA.

The Reds counter with Chase Burns, their electric rookie and 2024’s No. 2 overall draft pick. His traditional numbers (6.26 ERA) don’t tell the full story. He sports a 2.54 xFIP, 14.82 K/9, and a 44% whiff rate on a blazing 98.3 mph fastball and a wipeout 90.3 mph slider. He’s got elite stuff—just needs control.

Lineups and Players to Watch

For the Braves:

• Drake Baldwin DHs in place of Marcell Ozuna.

• Eli White starts in right field.

• Sean Murphy gets the nod behind the plate.

The usual suspects like Matt Olson and Austin Riley remain the primary power threats.

For the Reds:

• TJ Friedl leads off and plays center (.269 AVG, 10 HR).

• Austin Hays hits cleanup as DH.

• Tyler Stephenson catches.

• Miguel Andujar (.298 AVG in 60 games) was activated for added depth.

Betting Angles

• Moneyline: Braves are slight favorites around –170. Reds range from +104 to +114 depending on the book.

• Value Pick: The SportsLine projection model gives Cincinnati the edge in over 50% of simulations. The Reds at +114 could be worth backing.

• Strikeout Props: Strider’s O/U is 6.5 Ks (under +134), and Burns’ is 7.5 Ks (under –150). Projection models suggest Burns finishes with about 5.9 Ks, making the under a solid play.

Total Runs? Most books have the total around 8.5. With two high-strikeout pitchers, the under is in play—but one big inning could swing it the other way.

Bottom Line

It’s not just another game—it’s a spectacle. Baseball in a NASCAR coliseum, record crowds, and power arms on the mound. For bettors, the Reds moneyline and Burns under 7.5 strikeouts look like smart value. First pitch is 7:15 p.m. ET. Buckle up.

Sports Betting Disclaimer: All betting content is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Sports betting involves significant financial risk and may lead to losses. Please gamble responsibly and only wager what you can afford to lose. You must be 21 or the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction to participate. This blog is not affiliated with any sportsbooks or sports leagues unless explicitly stated. Some links may be affiliate links, meaning we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Our content is not professional betting advice. Betting is prohibited in some jurisdictions; ensure compliance with local laws before participating.