Fall Branch, Tennessee, July 31, 2025
News Summary
Will Little, a dedicated MLB umpire, will serve as the home-plate umpire for the Speedway Classic exhibition game featuring the Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds. The event highlights the importance of umpires and promises an exciting atmosphere for baseball fans in Fall Branch, Tennessee. Little, who has officiated in MLB since 2015, will be joined by a skilled crew, ensuring top-notch officiating at this highly anticipated matchup.
Fall Branch, Tennessee – Will Little, an accomplished umpire and graduate of Science Hill High School and Milligan University, is set to take the field as the home-plate umpire for the upcoming Speedway Classic. This highly anticipated exhibition game will see the Atlanta Braves go up against the Cincinnati Reds on Saturday.
Little, who became a Major League Baseball (MLB) umpire in 2015, has gained a reputation for his professionalism and expertise in officiating. He currently resides in Fall Branch, Tennessee, and is excited to showcase his skills in the spotlight of the Speedway Classic. Alongside Little, the officiating crew will feature Ryan Addison as the first base umpire, Ryan Willis at second base, and Lance Barksdale serving as the crew chief at third base.
The Speedway Classic not only provides a chance for fans to watch two major league teams play but also highlights the important role of umpires in the game. The match serves as a platform for players to connect with their fans and for umpires like Little to demonstrate their skills in a prestigious setting.
Event Details
The Speedway Classic is scheduled for Saturday, with exact game time details being announced closer to the event. Fans attending the game can expect an entertaining matchup between the Braves and the Reds, both of whom have strong followings and storied histories in MLB.
Will Little’s Background
Will Little has made significant strides in his career since being promoted to the MLB level. A native of Tennessee, Little honed his skills through hard work and dedication. His education at both Science Hill High School and Milligan University laid a strong foundation for his career in sports officiating. Little’s journey reflects the rigorous training and professional standards upheld in the umpiring community. His ascent to MLB umpiring is a testament to his commitment to the sport.
Umpiring Crew
Little will be joined by an experienced crew of umpires, ensuring that the game is officiated professionally. Ryan Addison, who will take charge of first base, alongside Ryan Willis at second base, will assist in delivering an accurate and fair game. Lance Barksdale, as the crew chief, brings additional experience, overseeing the umpiring team and ensuring all decisions are in line with MLB standards.
What to Expect
Fans can look forward to an action-packed day filled with baseball atmosphere, player interactions, and potential historical moments on the field. The Speedway Classic is also an excellent opportunity for younger fans to engage with the sport, as many teams often include promotional activities during such events.
Conclusion
As the Speedway Classic approaches, the excitement surrounding the game continues to build. With Will Little serving as the home-plate umpire, fans can expect an expertly officiated match that honors the spirit of baseball and showcases the talents of both major league teams.
FAQ
What is the Speedway Classic?
The Speedway Classic is an exhibition baseball game featuring the Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds.
When will the game take place?
The game is scheduled for Saturday, but the specific start time will be confirmed closer to the date.
Who is Will Little?
Will Little is a Major League Baseball umpire who has officiated since 2015 and is a graduate of Science Hill High School and Milligan University.
Where does Will Little reside?
Will Little lives in Fall Branch, Tennessee.
Who are the other umpires officiating the game?
In addition to Will Little, the officiating crew includes Ryan Addison (first base), Ryan Willis (second base), and Lance Barksdale (crew chief at third base).
Key Features of the Speedway Classic
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Speedway Classic |
| Teams | Atlanta Braves vs. Cincinnati Reds |
| Umpire | Will Little (Home Plate) |
| Date | Saturday |
| Location | Fall Branch, Tennessee |
| Umpiring Crew | Ryan Addison, Ryan Willis, Lance Barksdale |
| Years as MLB Umpire | Since 2015 |
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Additional Resources
- Tri-City Herald
- Wikipedia: Will Little
- WJHL
- Google Search: MLB umpiring
- Tri-City Record
- Google Scholar: baseball umpires
- Twin Cities
- Encyclopedia Britannica: umpiring
- Times Union
- Google News: baseball umpires
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
