Harsh Vardhan
Step up to the plate and get ready for an entertainment grand slam as we delve into the world of the favorite pastime of many sports enthusiasts on the small screen. In a world where sports and storytelling collide, Netflix offers an all-star lineup of baseball-themed movies and shows that will have you cheering from the couch. From heartwarming tales of underdog triumphs to gritty, intense dramas set on the diamond, these selections deliver a home run of emotions and excitement. Whether you’re a die-hard baseball fanatic or just looking for some cinematic nostalgia, the following movies deliver some great stories related to baseball and baseball players.
7. The Hill (2023)
Directed by Jeff Celentano, ‘The Hill’ is a biographical sports drama based on the life of baseball player Rickey Hill. It shows Hill’s love for the sport, although his dream to play in the major leagues never came. Numerous leg surgeries and a degenerative spine disorder underscored by a tremendously rough childhood kept Hill from making it big in baseball despite his natural talent for the sport. He played some minor leagues as a part of the Montreal Expos before retiring in 1978 at the age of 22. ‘The Hill’ showcases this journey. Colin Ford plays the role of Rickey Hill, while Dennis Quaid plays Ricky’s father, James Hill, who was a pastor. You can stream the film here.
6. The Saint of Second Chances (2023)
In the shadow of his legendary father, Hall of Fame baseball owner Bill Veeck, Mike Veeck’s journey unfolds. The Veeck legacy thrived on baseball’s eccentricity, introducing giveaways, theme nights, and fireworks. Yet, a momentous mistake cast Mike into the abyss, exiling him from the game he cherished. With years of perseverance, he forged a path to redemption from rock bottom. When life presents a stark revelation, Mike’s quest to restore the family name takes an unexpected turn, revealing the profound value of family bonds. Directed by Jeff Malmberg and Morgan Neville, ‘The Saint of Second Chances’ is an emotional odyssey through baseball, resilience, and the transformative power of second acts. You may watch it here.
5. A Clean Sweep (2022-2023)
‘A Clean Sweep’ is a series that offers a captivating glimpse into the world of professional baseball and the vibrant landscape of high school baseball. The show follows the intense rivalry between two teams, the Monsters and Duksoo High, as they engage in spirited battles on the diamond, vying for dominance on the bases. With a mix of seasoned pros and budding talents, the series delves into the contrasting worlds of baseball excellence, showcasing the raw passion and determination that drive both the seasoned athletes and the rising stars of the high school circuit. You can watch the series here.
4. You Gotta Believe (2024)
Helmed by Ty Roberts, ‘You Gotta Believe’ is based on the true story of the Fort Worth All-Star baseball team and its inspiring journey to the 2002 Little League World Series. How the underdog team overcomes its shortcomings under the tutelage of Bobby Ratliff (Luke Wilson) and his friend Jon Kelly (Greg Kinnear) has been showcased in an emotionally gripping manner that holds high the spirit of the game. ‘You Gotta Believe’ addresses that the first step toward achieving any goal is to believe that you can achieve it. You can enjoy the movie with your kids right here.
3. The Battered Bastards of Baseball (2014)
‘The Battered Bastards of Baseball,’ a captivating sports documentary directed by Chapman Way and Maclain Way, chronicles the audacious journey of the Portland Mavericks, an independent baseball team in the 1970s. Helmed by Hollywood veteran Bing Russell and featuring his son, actor Kurt Russell, the team shattered conventions and redefined the game. This underdog tale highlights their spirited battles, blending humor and heart, making it a standout baseball movie. The film’s charm lies in its raw portrayal of passion, camaraderie, and love for the game, earning it praise as a compelling and genuine homage to baseball’s unconventional spirit. You may watch the film here.
2. The Clubhouse: A Year with the Red Sox (2025- )
The docuseries ‘The Clubhouse: A Year with the Red Sox’ offers an unprecedented look into the personal and professional lives of the Boston Red Sox team during the ups and downs of the 2024 season. With unfiltered clips into the extreme demands of a 162-game schedule, the eight-part series takes the viewers on a captivating exploration of one of the most iconic franchises in baseball. The show includes interviews of many players of the 2024 team, including first baseman Triston Casas, pitcher Brayan Bello, center fielder Jarren Duran, and right fielder Wilyer Abreu, along with archival footage and new footage. It can be streamed here.
1. The Comeback: 2004 Boston Red Sox (2024)
‘The Comeback: 2004 Boston Red Sox’ showcases how the Boston Red Sox baseball team made a historic comeback by winning the American League Championship Series and bringing home the Commissioner’s Trophy in 2004, a feat they achieved after 86 years. The three-episode miniseries shows interviews with the star players, including Pedro Martinez, Big Papi, and Kevin Millar, and sports personnel, like broadcaster icon Joe Castiglione, as well as fans, authentically adding to the narrative. Directed by Colin Barnicle, the series is no less than a love letter to the team that instilled hope in Boston fans and is a must-watch for baseball fanatics. It can be streamed here.
Read More: Best Game Shows on Netflix
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