As the Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds prepare to play the first MLB regular-season game in the state of Tennessee, Major League Baseball has showcased the transformation of the iconic Bristol Motor Speedway into a baseball venue. A timelapse video released by MLB illustrates the intricate process of converting the renowned race track into a suitable field for the matchup scheduled for Saturday night.

Hikari Shumsky, MLB's senior coordinator for global event operations, explained the complexities involved in the conversion process. Speaking to Manny Randhawa of MLB.com, Shumsky noted that the baseball configuration at Bristol Motor Speedway did not exist prior to this initiative, emphasizing the necessity of building essential game infrastructure from the ground up. He stated, "Bristol Motor Speedway is a professional NASCAR facility. Anything in the baseball configuration there doesn’t exist unless we build it. If we don’t build dugouts, they don’t exist. If we don’t build bullpens, they don’t exist. Clubhouses, all of that."

In addition to creating a functional playing field, MLB undertook significant groundwork, utilizing several tons of gravel to establish a level surface and removing existing structures that obstructed the outfield area. Furthermore, a fan zone has been developed, featuring attractions like a ferris wheel and concert stage to enhance the pregame experience for attendees. The effort dedicated to this single game is poised to be rewarded; the league has announced that it expects to set a new regular-season attendance record, with over 85,000 tickets sold as of Monday. The highly anticipated first pitch for the Speedway Classic between the Braves and Reds is scheduled for 7:15 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on Fox.