Ty Dillon, a lifelong Atlanta Braves fan and veteran NASCAR Cup Series driver, stepped onto the mound at Truist Park in Atlanta to throw out the ceremonial first pitch before the highly anticipated May 7th game between the Braves and the Cincinnati Reds. Invited as a special guest by Major League Baseball and the Braves, Ty Dillon’s appearance was orchestrated in collaboration with the team at Bristol Motor Speedway, helping to spotlight NASCAR events and the forthcoming MLB Speedway Classic, presented by BuildSubmarines.com.
This electrifying moment marked more than a personal milestone for Ty Dillon, who drives the No. 10 Chevy for Kaulig Racing; it also set the stage for the MLB Speedway Classic, a historic game scheduled for August 2 inside Bristol Motor Speedway’s infield. The upcoming matchup between two National League rivals will be the first National or American League game ever played in Tennessee, adding another remarkable chapter to both baseball and racing history.
As a proud member of a racing dynasty—being the younger brother of fellow NASCAR racer Austin Dillon and grandson to NASCAR Hall of Fame team owner Richard Childress—Ty Dillon’s connection to the Braves runs deep. Richard Childress first sparked the brothers’ interest in the team years ago, taking them to a Braves game as children. Earlier this year, Austin Dillon participated in promotional efforts around the MLB Speedway Classic, even performing a burnout in the Braves’ outfield with his iconic No. 3 Chevy.
Before stepping on the mound, Ty Dillon received a customized Braves jersey, with “DILLON” and the number 10 emblazoned on the back—a gesture celebrating both his racing and baseball passions. Ty Dillon, joined by his wife Haley and children Oakley and Kapton, made the most of their visit with a stop at the Braves Clubhouse Store, ensuring the family was geared up for the occasion.
Ty Dillon’s enthusiasm was also captured in an appearance on the Behind the Braves podcast, where he shared his excitement for the day and appreciation for the opportunity. During the top of the third inning, he was interviewed by reporter Wiley Ballard for the Fan Duel Sports Network, adding greater visibility to the partnership between baseball and motorsport.
Reflecting on the significance of the event, Ty Dillon expressed gratitude for the chance to represent NASCAR and his deep affection for the Braves. As the MLB Speedway Classic draws nearer, fans are eager to witness this unprecedented fusion of America’s two most popular sports. The anticipation is further heightened by the promise of a pregame concert by country music legend Tim McGraw, making each ticket a pass to memories in the making.
Looking ahead, Ty Dillon quickly returns to NASCAR competition at the AdventHealth 400 in Kansas, then prepares for another Georgia homecoming at Atlanta Motor Speedway in June. With his first pitch at Truist Park and his ongoing achievements, Ty Dillon continues to inspire fans across both racing and baseball communities.
