25. Little Big League (1994)
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What happens when your grandfather suddenly passes away and leaves 12-year-old you in charge of the Minnesota Twins? You decide to coach the team, of course. Billy Heywood proves to be very knowledgeable about the game but must find a way to earn the respect of the clubhouse. A movie balancing friendship, love, and baseball, Little Big League is an easy film to enjoy. Add in memorable cameos from Ken Griffey Jr. and Randy Johnson, and you have a hit.
24. Fever Pitch (2005)
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The chemistry in Fever Pitch between Jimmy Fallon and Drew Barrymore is palpable. The two fall for each other shortly after meeting and soon enter a serious relationship. However, the dynamic becomes strained when Lindsay (Barrymore) realizes Ben (Fallon) is deeply in love with the Red Sox. Any true sports fan can relate to Ben’s love of the game, which makes this story more personal to some. In an ironic twist, the film was partly shot during the 2004 MLB season — the year in which the Red Sox won the World Series for the first time since 1918.
23. Mr. Baseball (1992)
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Mr. Baseball is not for everyone. Jack Elliot (Tom Selleck), a former star player, travels to Japan in an attempt to revive his career. Elliot must adjust to both the Japanese culture and the stylistic differences between American and Japanese baseball. Selleck does well convincing the audience that he is determined to improve as both a teammate and as a person. This comedy is worth a watch.
22. Angels in the Outfield (1994)
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Starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt (before he became JGL), Christopher Lloyd, and Danny Glover, Angels in the Outfield is an uplifting and humorous remake of the 1951 film. Lloyd is particularly funny in his role as an angel named Al. Roger (Levitt) and J.P. (Milton Davis Jr.) are foster children in search of a home. Glover, who is the manager of the Angels, develops an unconditional love for the children, culminating in the adoption of the two boys. The baseball-centric scenes are nothing to write home about, but the action is entertaining.
21. Up for Grabs (2005)
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Any sports fan, let alone baseball fans, knew what Barry Bonds was up to in the summer of 2001. Bonds was in the midst of a 73 HR campaign, and fans flocked to Giants’ games to get a front-row seat to history. Up for Grabs examines the court battle between Patrick Hayashi, who came away with the cherished ball, and Alex Popov — who claimed to catch the ball before it was wrestled away. The documentary is equal parts thrilling and engaging.
20. Ballplayer: Pelotero (2011)
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With a little help from former MLB manager Bobby Valentine, the team of Ross Finkel, Trevor Martin and Jonathan Paley joined forces to create a gripping documentary. Ballplayer: Pelotero, gives an in-depth look into the world of recruiting baseball prospects. Pelotero provides the audience with a deeper look into the flawed and darker side of recruiting. While at times sad, this film is a must-see for any baseball enthusiast.
19. Sugar (2008)
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Sugar follows Miguel Santos, a talented pitcher from the Dominican Republic, along his journey to make the majors. While Pelotero showcased a true story, Sugar is purely fictional. Santos must prove his worth in the minor leagues before getting a shot at glory. Along the way, the Dominican standout must come to grips with his new life in America, and all of the challenges that come with it. This film does a good job highlighting both the sport of baseball and a young man chasing his dream at any cost.
18. Cobb (1994)
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Ty Cobb is one of the greatest baseball players of all-time. Unfortunately, Cobb wasn’t the greatest person. Tommy Lee Jones captures Cobb’s character strikingly throughout the entirety of the film. The story begins as Al Stump, played by Robert Wuhl, sets out to write a biography on the legend. Jones’ performance as Cobb is strong and memorable. Cobb remains a polarizing figure despite lacing up his cleats for the last time over 90 years ago.
17. Off the Black (2006)
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Between Blue Chips and Off the Black, Nick Nolte has had memorable performances in sports movies. In Off the Black, Nolte portrays an alcoholic umpire. Ray Cooke (Nolte) becomes friends with a downtrodden teenager, Dave Tibbel. After a missed call during a crucial playoff game leads to the two men crossing paths in an unfortunate way, the pair deliver a fantastic message for viewers of all ages.
16. Bang the Drum Slowly (1973)
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Robert De Niro has had an incredible career. However, unless you are a die-hard De Niro fan, you may not know about his performance in Bang the Drum Slowly. De Niro plays Bruce Pearson, a ballplayer who doesn’t elicit excitement from his new teammates upon joining the New York Mammoths. Between seasons, Pearson is diagnosed with a terminal case of Hodgkin’s and decides to largely keep the news to himself. This film is full of great baseball moments as well as emotional scenes. Get your tissues ready.
15. Fear Strikes Out (1957)
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Fear Strikes Out follows the true story of Jimmy Piersall. Piersall was an All-Star centerfielder who played in the big leagues for 17 years — all while battling with bipolar disorder. Anthony Perkins does a tremendous job with his portrayal of Piersall, as the actor highlights Piersall’s journey from Connecticut to Boston. Released over 60 years ago, Fear Strikes Out still holds up well to this day.
14. Rookie of the Year (1993)
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Rookie of the Year is not a classic film in a traditional sense. It is, however, an endearing comedy that has earned an everlasting place in the hearts of many. Following a freak accident, 12-year-old Henry Rowengartner is suddenly able to throw 100 mph. Still not a teenager, Rowengartner joins the Chicago Cubs in their quest to win the World Series. Memorable performances from Gary Busey and Daniel Stern help this film, with an asinine premise, flourish.
13. Eight Men Out (1988)
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The 1919 World Series scandal — better known as the Black Sox Scandal — is one of the most infamous events in the history of professional sports. Directed by John Sayles, Eight Men Out showcases the 1919 Chicago White Sox and their willingness to cheat the sport. Buoyed by a strong cast, Eight Men Out is a must-watch for any baseball fan.
12. The Rookie (2002)
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Jim Morris (Dennis Quaid) saw his once-promising career end due to a shoulder injury. Saddled with the weight of disappointment from never making the big leagues, Morris makes a deal with his high school team — if they win the district championship, Morris will give the pros one last shot. The Rookie is a feel-good flick full of inspiration and dogged determination. Combining a healthy dose of baseball and friendship, The Rookie shines.
11. The Pride of the Yankees (1942)
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With success comes admiration. Due to their success, the New York Yankees have had plenty of movies made about them. However, The Pride of the Yankees is perhaps the best of the lot. In telling the tragic story of Lou Gehrig, Sam Wood delivers both an excellent and heartbreaking film. Gary Cooper is equally wonderful as Gehrig. Many sports fans are aware of how this story ends, but it is still a film worth viewing.
10. The Life and Times of Hank Greenberg (1998)
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The Life and Times of Hank Greenberg not only highlights Greenberg’s successful career but the larger impact his success had on his community. Aside from coming close to breaking Babe Ruth’s single-season home run record, Greenberg became an inspirational figure to American Jews. In a time when the group faced religious bigotry, Greenberg gave hope to those who had little to speak of. Director Aviva Kempner delivers an electric documentary, one that is much more than just another sports story.
9. 42 (2013)
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Jackie Robinson is without a doubt the most important athlete of all-time. The film 42 retraces Robinson’s monumental life and career — including his journey in breaking baseball’s color barrier. The baseball scenes are believable, and the story remains incredibly inspirational. There is not much more to be said about the importance of this film.
8. Moneyball (2011)
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The best baseball movie of recent years, Moneyball gave viewers an inside look at the Oakland Athletics’ sabermetric ways. Both Brad Pitt and Jonah Hill deliver strong performances, making it easier to cheer for the unassuming franchise. Moneyball is insightful, smart, and a tremendous watch. More than a decade after its release, Moneyball continues to surge in popularity.
7. A League of Their Own (1992)
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Tom Hanks, Geena Davis, Madonna, Rosie O’Donnell, Jon Lovitz. A League of Their Own is a very fun movie featuring a terrific cast. The women in charge played solid baseball which led to the film having a very realistic feel. While there are a few sad moments mixed in, A League of Their Own is full of humorous bits and is an all-around good time.
6. The Natural (1984)
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An all-time baseball film, The Natural is nearly unmatched in its ability to capture the true spirit of America’s national pastime. As a teenager, Roy Hobbs was viewed in the same light as Bryce Harper was before entering the big leagues — a prodigious talent destined for greatness. Hobbs’ path to greatness is a rocky one, but The Natural plays well as a sentimental film highlighting the beauty of an individual overcoming unexpected hardships to ultimately fulfill their dreams.
5. The Bad News Bears (1976)
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The original version of The Bad News Bears is simply hilarious. Led by a former minor league player turned pool cleaner, Morris Buttermaker, an incredibly awful group of kids come together to play ball. Better at slinging around profanity than a baseball bat, the Bears struggle out of the gate. When the parents threaten to pull their kids from the team, Buttermaker enlists the help of two gifted players to turn things around. The 2005 remake is forgettable, but the 1976 version of Bad News Bears is a classic.
4. Major League (1989)
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Major League will never get old. Due to its humor, entertaining sequences of game-action, and memorable performances, David Ward’s film carries a long shelf life. Charlie Sheen’s portrayal of Ricky Vaughn is believable thanks in part to Sheen’s actual ability to pitch. Throw in strong characters such as Jake Taylor, Lou Brown, Willie Mays Hayes and Pedro Cerrano, and Major League will have you excited throughout the film.
3. The Sandlot (1993)
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When it comes to nostalgia, The Sandlot more than fits the bill. A coming-of-age story, The Sandlot utilizes a likable cast of kids to carry the narrative. Whether it be Smalls’ attempt to break into the group by learning how to play ball, Squints’ memorable moment with Wendy Peffercorn, Ham Porter’s incredible trash-talk, or the infamous battles with Mr. Mertle and The Beast — The Sandlot will bring you back to your childhood and make you want to pick up a ball and toss it around with some pals.
2. Field of Dreams (1989)
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“If you build it, he will come.” Field of Dreams is baseball at its best. As good as the baseball scenes are, this film goes far beyond the game. A story held together by family and love, Field of Dreams hits all the right notes. Kevin Costner and James Earl Jones deliver great performances in this moving flick. Field of Dreams is as good as it gets.
1. Bull Durham (1988)
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Kevin Costner’s love for baseball shines through yet again — this time in Bull Durham. Costner is at his best throughout the film. Starring as Crash Davis, Costner’s charisma and knack for humor result in a stirring journey through the Minor Leagues. Between mentoring pitcher Nuke LaLoosh and battling for the affection of Annie Savoy (Susan Sarandon), Davis impressively carries the narrative. In addition to providing a great look into Minor League baseball, Bull Durham is chock-full of great performances. Not only is Bull Durham the best baseball film of all-time, but it is arguably a top-5 sports film as well.