Eli White made a memorable impact in the Speedway Classic, delivering a remarkable multi-homer performance that helped the Atlanta Braves secure a 4-2 win over the Cincinnati Reds on Sunday. The Braves outfielder, stepping in for the injured Ronald Acuña Jr., showcased his power and determination during a game that was delayed multiple times due to weather conditions.
Detailed Highlights of White’s Two Home Runs
White’s first home run came early in the second inning when he connected on Brent Suter’s changeup, driving the ball 411 feet to left field and bringing in two runs. This swing gave the Braves a crucial 3-1 lead, as Michael Harris II and Ozzie Albies crossed the plate. After grounding out in his next at-bat, White launched an even longer homer off Scott Barlow’s sinker, sending the ball 413 feet over the left-center wall and extending Atlanta’s lead to 4-2.
White Reflects on His Performance and Team Contribution
After the game, White described his excitement and focus while rounding the bases, noting the special experience of contributing significantly to the team’s offense.
“Yeah, I like, kinda blacked out, honestly, running around the bases,”
he said.
“The bullpen was getting on me when I went out there to right because I didn’t acknowledge them… That was a super cool experience just to be able to come through for the team, getting a few runs on the board is big.”
—Eli White, Atlanta Braves outfielder
Career Journey and Unique Records Set by White
At 31 years old, White has steadily worked to earn playing time in Major League Baseball, having played for both the Texas Rangers and Atlanta Braves organizations. Despite a modest batting average of .255 earlier this season, his performance at the Speedway Classic marked a significant turning point in his career. A Clemson University graduate, White posted his first positive Wins Above Replacement (WAR) last year and has quietly made history as the only player to hit every home run in Major League Baseball history within the state of Tennessee.
Significance of the Speedway Classic Home Run Car
White’s home runs carried extra meaning at the Speedway Classic, as he became the only player to trigger the event’s distinctive reward—a red, white, and blue Corvette known as the “Home Run Car,” which completes a celebratory hot lap anytime a player homers in Bristol. This unique tradition underscores White’s special connection to the game and region.
Braves Look Ahead Following the Victory
Thanks to White’s clutch hitting, the Braves overcame weather delays to defeat the Reds 4-2. The team now prepares to return home to face the Milwaukee Brewers on Monday evening, aiming to build momentum as the season progresses and to maintain their competitive edge with contributions from emerging players like Eli White.