Noah Gragson supports MLB at Bristol as the iconic racetrack prepares for a major transformation, with NASCAR making way for the 2025 MLB Speedway Classic. On August 2, 2025, the Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds are set to face off at the 64-year-old venue, shifting the energy from roaring engines to the sights and sounds of baseball under the lights. The first pitch of the historic event will take place at 7:15 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on FOX, with the Reds serving as the home team after two prior matchups against the Braves in Cincinnati.
Gragson Applauds the Unique Crossover
Noah Gragson shared his enthusiastic support for the event’s innovative spirit, recalling how previous sporting crossovers have impressed fans and participants alike.
“I think it’s really cool that they’re doing that. It’s out of the ordinary. I remember when, who was it? Virginia Tech and Tennessee played. That was super cool how they’re able to transform the track.”
—Noah Gragson, driver
Drawing parallels with other high-profile sports events held in unconventional locations, Gragson highlighted the unique atmosphere these settings create.
“It’s just a different atmosphere, and I think it’s really cool, and I think people want to be a part of it… It’s definitely gonna be cool just being able to race there and being a driver that’s raced there and won there, knowing what that place means to me.”
—Noah Gragson, driver
He emphasized the value of bringing a new experience to both baseball and racing fans. Gragson believes that collaborations like this breathe excitement into tradition-rich venues and expand both sports’ audiences. With a storied history at Bristol Motor Speedway, Gragson is thrilled to see his home turf reimagined for baseball’s big stage.
Promoting Fan Engagement Across Sports
According to Gragson, the event presents a valuable opportunity to blend the fanbases of Major League Baseball and NASCAR, further energizing the community around Bristol. The idea of NASCAR fans attending their first ball game at the track, and perhaps returning for a future race, highlights the cross-promotional benefits.
He sees the Speedway Classic as a way to introduce baseball to locals who may not have a team nearby, while also giving MLB supporters a unique venue experience in Bristol, Tennessee—a location more commonly associated with racing than with baseball. Such efforts, according to Gragson, foster new appreciation among fans and broaden the appeal for both sports.
Elly De La Cruz Earns Gragson’s Support
When asked which player he’ll be backing at the Speedway Classic, Gragson named a rising star from the Cincinnati Reds.
“I like Elly De La Cruz, so I’ll be cheering him on. It’ll be cool,”
—Noah Gragson, driver. As a shortstop for the Reds, Elly De La Cruz has captured attention on and off the diamond, and Gragson’s support adds even more excitement for the upcoming game.
A Unique Baseball Diamond in the Heart of Bristol
For the upcoming event, Bristol Motor Speedway will undergo a remarkable transformation, with a full baseball diamond installed primarily between Turns 3 and 4 of the track. The design will mirror the specifications of a professional stadium, with 330-foot foul lines, a 400-foot center field, and unique alley distances stretching 375 feet and 384 feet to the right and left respectively. This ambitious construction will create a one-of-a-kind field for both athletes and spectators to enjoy.
Anticipation Builds for a Landmark Sporting Event
The 2025 MLB Speedway Classic not only promises to merge the best of baseball and motorsports, but also to draw new fans to each tradition. With enthusiastic endorsement from respected figures like Noah Gragson and energetic support for players such as Elly De La Cruz, the showdown between the Cincinnati Reds and Atlanta Braves is set to be a memorable chapter in the shared histories of both Bristol Motor Speedway and Major League Baseball.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Where is Noah Gragson in 2025?
A. In 2025, Noah Gragson will drive the No. 4 car for Front Row Motorsports, with Drew Blickensderfer as the crew chief. The No. 4 car will carry on its tradition in the NASCAR Cup Series, starting a fresh chapter with Gragson and the team.
Q. Who is number 4 on Noah Gragson?
A. Noah Gragson is set to drive the No. 4 Ford Mustang for Front Row Motorsports. Drew Blickensderfer will be his crew chief.
Front Row Motorsports revealed in July 2024 that Gragson signed a multi-year deal with them. They have now assigned him a car number and crew chief for the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season.
Q. Where is Noah Gragson going in 2025?
A. In 2025, the Front Row Motorsports Ford will have Noah Gragson driving. Drew Blickensderfer will be the crew chief. The No. 4 car starts a new chapter in the NASCAR Cup Series with this team and driver.
