Beer, Baseball, and Arkansas Rice Take the Field in Fayetteville

FAYETTEVILLE, AR – It was a big week for in-state baseball and an even bigger week for Arkansas agriculture at Baum-Walker Stadium as the Arkansas State Red Wolves and the No. 6 Arkansas Razorbacks met in a midweek doubleheader that celebrated more than just runs on the board.

Tuesday’s opener delivered an historic result, with Arkansas State earning its first-ever baseball victory over Arkansas, 12–4.  The Razorbacks responded in game two, securing the win and splitting the series — a fitting outcome for an event built around partnership and shared pride.  Beyond the rivalry, the series highlighted the strong connection between Arkansas rice and Anheuser-Busch.

Anheuser-Busch is the largest end-user of rice in the United States, sourcing 100 percent of its rice from U.S. farmers — and operating a major rice mill in Jonesboro.  Arkansas-grown rice is a key ingredient in brands such as Budweiser, Bud Light, Michelob Ultra, and Michelob Ultra Zero, helping create the light, crisp finish enjoyed by fans at ballparks across the country.

The Fayetteville games provided an opportunity to recognize Arkansas rice farmers and celebrate Budweiser’s 150th anniversary while showcasing the full circle of agriculture, processing, brewing, and distribution — all rooted in Arkansas.

Angela Ryan, president of McBride Distributing Company, spearheaded this promotion and reflected on the occasion: “This series was a great opportunity to celebrate rice, beer, baseball, and Budweiser’s 150th Birthday in Fayetteville.  It’s exciting to see the entire process — from dirt fields to an ice-cold beer — come together.  I think we’ve started a great tradition.  Cheers to a split series between ASU and the UofA!”

The collaboration brought together multiple generations of rice farmers, university partners, industry leaders, and distributors — each playing a role in supporting Arkansas agriculture and the state’s broader economy.

A historic win for Arkansas State.  A strong finish for Arkansas.  And a shared victory for Arkansas rice – something everyone in the Natural State can raise a glass to!