Last Updated on September 22, 2023
Currently, there are 10 baseball movies on Netflix. The list starts with the famous “Moneyball” starring my favorite Brad Pitt, which tells the true story of the Oakland Athletics general manager Billy Beane.
Not only that, but there are also inspiring movies based on true stories, including 5 documentary films – The Battered Bastards of Baseball, Late Life: The Chien-ming Wang Story, Facing Nolan, A Secret Love, and A Clean Sweep.
From Major League dramas to hilarious comedies, the list covers some of the best baseball movies of all time. Get your snacks ready and settle into the couch, because these 10 flicks will have you rooting for heroes, laughing at absurd moments, and feeling all the emotions.
List of Baseball Movies on Netflix
| Movie | Year | Genre | IMDb Rating | Rotten Tomatoes | Key Points |
| Moneyball | 2011 | Drama | 7.6/10 | 94% | Brad Pitt as innovative MLB managerFocus on data analytics in baseball |
| The Battered Bastards of Baseball | 2014 | Documentary | 8/10 | 100% | Story of a real independent minor league teamLovable misfits chasing greatness |
| 42 | 2013 | Drama | 7.5 | 81% | Chadwick Boseman as Jackie RobinsonBreaking MLB’s color barrier |
| The Unauthorized Bash Brothers Experience | 2019 | Comedy | 6.9 | 100% | Andy Samberg/Lonely Island’s musical comedyAbsurd ’80s tribute |
| Late Life: The Chien-ming Wang Story | 2018 | Documentary | 7.1 | 82% | Taiwanese pitcher achieving MLB gloryOvercoming injuries and Adversity |
| A League of Their Own | 1992 | Drama/Comedy | 7.3/10 | 81% | Geena Davis leads a team during WWIIWomen gaining courage/independence |
| Facing Nolan | 2022 | Documentary | 7.9/10 | 98% | Career of legendary pitcher Nolan RyanInsights from players facing his 100mph heat |
| A Secret Love | 2020 | Documentary | 7.8/10 | 100% | Decades-long lesbian relationshipBaseball player and dancer |
| A Clean Sweep | 2022 | Comedy | 8.6/10 | N/A | Korean MLB pitcher coaches high school teamGeneration gap comedy |
| How Do You Know | 2010 | Romantic Comedy | 5.4/10 | 30% | Reese Witherspoon’s love trianglePro baseball player vs. exec |
Top 10 Baseball Movies on Netflix (Films and Documentaries)
You know, baseball movies really resonate with both sports nuts and movie lovers. I think it’s because we all love an underdog tale, and baseball has so many great ones.
If you’re a film buff, Netflix has a solid lineup of baseball flicks and docs that are really worth the watch time.
Keep reading for the top baseball movie recommendations on Netflix right now according to audiences and critics!
Moneyball (2011) – “A New Way to Build a Winning Team”
Audience Score
- IMDb Ratings: 7.6/10
- Rotten Tomatoes Scores:94%
Moneyball is a must-see film that gives you an inside look at the innovative strategies used by the Oakland A’s general manager Billy Beane to select baseball players, pocketing positive feedback from audiences all over the world.
With Brad Pitt in the leading role, this movie shows how Beane challenged the conventional wisdom of baseball and used data and analytics to build a winning team on a tight budget.
“Even I used this movie for my case study as a coach to train my high-school academy players.”
Since the A’s baseball team didn’t have the cash to compete for big-name players like the Yankees, Beane had to get creative.
He focused on overlooked stats like on-base percentage to find undervalued talent – guys who got on base a lot but were less flashy. The old-school scouts hated this new analytical approach and butted heads with Beane constantly.
But Beane stuck to his guns and proved that you can assemble a successful squad without breaking the bank on high-priced stars.
He found hidden gems who contributed way more than anyone expected. It just shows that talent can be found in unexpected places if you know where to look.
Moneyball highlights how important innovation and challenging the status quo can be, even in a traditional sport like baseball.
This film hits a home run at capturing the behind-the-scenes tension between trusting your gut versus trusting the data. And it reminds you to always stay open to new perspectives – because they might just be game changers.
The Battered Bastards of Baseball (2014) – “True Story of the Portland Mavericks”
Audience Score
- IMDb Ratings: 8/10
- Rotten Tomatoes Scores:100%
If you’re looking for an offbeat baseball film, you’ve gotta check out The Battered Bastards of Baseball. It’s a must-watch for any baseball fan, and the audience score speaks for itself.
This film uncovers the true story of the Portland Mavericks – a ragtag minor league team that was the brainchild of Bing Russell, who you probably remember as Deputy Clem on Bonanza.
Bing loved baseball so much that he decided to start his own independent minor league team outside of the MLB system.
And let me tell you, the Mavericks were no ordinary squad. They were total misfits – rejects, has-beens, never-was – but man, could they play.
This film takes you inside the wild ride of the Mavericks as Bing pieces together a team of lovable losers.
Despite being a band of outcasts, they captivated fans with their freewheeling style and undying passion for the game. It’s an underdog story for the ages. Even with challenges on and off the field, the Mavericks proved they belonged!
They became folk heroes in Portland. This scruffy crew made their own rules and found a real sense of community along the way.
The Battered Bastards of Baseball is jam-packed with colorful characters who lived and breathed baseball. It’s equal parts fun, rowdy, and inspirational. You can’t help but root for these lovable losers as they chase greatness in their own renegade way.
42 (2013) – “Dream Beats Racism”
Audience Score
- IMDb Ratings: 7.5/10
- Rotten Tomatoes Scores:81%
The movie “42” tells the inspirational true story of Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier in Major League Baseball.
Chadwick Boseman knocks it out of the park playing Jackie, capturing his athleticism, quiet strength, and determination.
This film throws you right into the heart of the struggle Jackie faced as the first African-American player in the MLB.
From his teammates to competing teams to fans, he encounters racism and discrimination every step of the way.
It’s an emotional journey watching Jackie take hit after hit – both from balls and harsh words – without giving up.
Chadwick Boseman brings such heart and soul to the role. And Harrison Ford is great too as the Brooklyn Dodgers manager who recruited Jackie. You really feel the tense moments on the field and in the locker room.
“The director does an amazing job pulling you into the atmosphere of pro baseball in the 40s.”
You’re right there cheering Jackie’s triumphs while feeling the sting and frustration when he confronts yet another obstacle. The music throughout swells at just the right moments to underscore the soaring highs and difficult lows.
“42” captures the courage and fortitude it took for Jackie Robinson to fulfill his dreams in the face of intense hatred.
It’s an inspiring reminder that we all have the power to turn adversity into opportunity if we stand up for what’s right. This movie will move you while celebrating a true American hero.
The Unauthorized Bash Brothers Experience (2019) – “A Visual Baseball Poem”
Audience Score
- IMDb Ratings: 6.9/10
- Rotten Tomatoes Scores:100%
If you’re looking for something totally different than your standard baseball flick, check out “The Unauthorized Bash Brothers Experience” on Netflix.
Dripping in 80s nostalgia, director Akiva Schaffer brings the larger-than-life tale of sluggers Mark McGwire and Jose Canseco to life through trippy animated sequences. It’s an absurd and hilarious tribute that’s definitely not your traditional baseball doc.
The Lonely Island’s Andy Samberg and Schaffer steal the show as our titular duo, capturing their swagger and bravado. Their chemistry and comedic timing had me cracking up.
More than just laughs, the film explores darker themes like ego, scandal, and the pressure of stardom. We get insightful peeks into the Bash Brothers’ psyches through dreamlike visuals and music.
Schaffer takes an artistic approach with vibrant, distorted visuals that immerse you in 80s baseball lore.
The cool guest stars like Haim and Maya Rudolph make the show even more fun. The music is awesome, with rap, pop, and ballads all mixed together.
While aimed toward baseball nuts, the trippy animation, crude humor, and killer tunes make this an enjoyable watch for anyone. It flew by way too fast at just 30 minutes – I could have watched hours more of this madness!
Late Life: The Chien-ming Wang Story (2018) – “From Taiwan to MLB”
Audience Score
- IMDb Ratings: 7.1/10
- Rotten Tomatoes Scores:82%
The new documentary Late Life: The Chien-ming Wang Story really moved me. It chronicles the incredible journey of Taiwanese pitcher Chien-ming Wang who made it all the way to MLB glory despite the odds stacked against him.
With director Ryan Page at the helm, Late Life takes us from Wang’s childhood baseball dreams in Taiwan to becoming a Yankees star.
It’s an emotional rollercoaster following Wang as he navigates language barriers, homesickness, and major injuries all while pursuing his passion.
No matter how many setbacks he faces, from ligament tears to getting sent back down to the minor leagues, Wang keeps persevering.
The pacing flows smoothly, mixing Wang’s backstory with exciting MLB game footage. The editing oscillates between the thrill of watching Wang mow down batters to the agony of seeing his injuries.
“You feel all the highs and lows right along with him.”
The soundtrack mixes traditional Taiwanese melodies with rousing orchestral scores that crescendo during pivotal moments.
Overall, this was one of the most moving and human sports documentaries I’ve seen in a long time. Late Life made me want to cheer out loud and call my loved ones. It’s an absolute must-watch!
A League of Their Own (1992) – “A Man in the Women’s Baseball Team”
Audience Score
- IMDb Ratings: 7.3/10
- Rotten Tomatoes Scores:81%
Directed by Penny Marshall this film follows the real-life story of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League formed during World War II. With tomboyish Geena Davis leading an all-star cast, A League of Their Own knocked it out of the park for me.
We’re taken back to 1943 as the war threatens to shut down major league baseball. Scout Jon Lovitz finds a group of women ball players to make new teams and keep baseball alive. Cue the hilarity and drama as these disparate personalities come together.
Despite their clashing styles, the players bond through their shared love of the game. We watch them gain courage and independence as they fight stereotypes.
Geena Davis shines as star catcher Dottie, juggling her talent with duty to family. Her subtle acting conveys deep emotion below Dottie’s stoic surface. And Madonna surprises with her feisty performance as Mae.
“Tom Hanks is funny as the drunk manager, who is in charge of the women.”
Penny Marshall takes us back to the 40s with cool old-timey stuff and lights. The baseball action pops with rousing music and playful slo-mo.
I laughed, cried, and cheered wildly through this funny and empowering home run of a film. It’s certainly earned its place among the best baseball movies of all time.
Facing Nolan (2022) – “The Ryan Express”
Audience Score
- IMDb Ratings: 7.9/10
- Rotten Tomatoes Scores:98%
I was pumped to check out Facing Nolan, the new documentary about Hall of Fame pitcher Nolan Ryan. With tons of highlights and insights from players who faced Ryan’s 100 mph heat, this movie totally delivered.
Director Bradley Jackson takes us on a nostalgic ride through Ryan’s legendary 27-year MLB career. I enjoyed witnessing those golden days of baseball and the awe of Ryan’s 50-year legacy.
From his blazing fastball and marathon longevity to his epic brawls, we get the full picture of this Texas legend. The footage and interviews really capture what it was like for hitters staring down the “Ryan Express.”
Ryan’s relentless quest for perfection pushed boundaries and made him a feared yet respected icon. We gain empathy for the intense pressure he put on himself to succeed.
It’s nonstop entertainment listening to all-star hitters like Reggie Jackson, George Brett, and Keith Hernandez reflect on their epic face-offs with Nolan. Their stories are funny and vivid, making you feel like you’re right there in the batter’s box with them.
Jackson effectively blends archival clips, reenactments, and insights to bring Ryan’s story to life. The swift pacing moves between his many milestones and the terror he struck into batters’ hearts. We get insider views of his fiery personality and competitive drive.
Any sports fan can appreciate Facing Nolan, it’s a real treat for avid baseball nuts. A must-see homage to a one-of-a-kind great.
A Secret Love (2020) – “Lesbian Baseball Love”
Audience Score
- IMDb Ratings: 7.8/10
- Rotten Tomatoes Scores:100%
The Netflix documentary A Secret Love pulled at my heartstrings. It intimately shares the decades-long love story of pro baseball player Terry Donahue and partner Pat Henschel.
After over 60 years of hiding their relationship, we see them bravely facing life’s challenges as open lesbians.
Director Chris Bolan beautifully crafts this journey of love, loss, and self-acceptance. Through interviews, we get to know Terry and Pat’s warm, resilient spirits despite society’s homophobia. We ache as they confront Pat’s Parkinson’s diagnosis and the dilemma of coming out late in life.
Their profound devotion throughout the ups and downs of life is so moving. A Secret Love highlights that love is love, regardless of gender or age. It’s a message the world still needs to hear.
Terry and Pat light up the screen, their personalities still sparkling as they enter their 80s. We get glimpses into their past through photos of them as young baseball trailblazers and glamorous dancers. Their closeness jumps off the screen.
The pace goes up and down to let sad moments sink in. Bolan’s way feels personal, with not much music used to make the feelings stronger. Cool editing puts the different times together really well.
While baseball fans will appreciate Terry’s backstory, this doc will resonate with all audiences. The relationship drama and family tensions feel so relatable.
A Secret Love reminds us it’s never too late to live openly and embrace who we really are. A beautiful, important story of love conquering all.
A Clean Sweep (2022) – Ex. Korean Baseball Pro vs. High-school Baseball Team
Audience Score
- IMDb Ratings: 8.6/10
- Rotten Tomatoes Scores: N/A
As a Korean movie buff, I was excited to watch A Clean Sweep, the new sports comedy flick featuring K-pop star Siwan. This wacky film delivers big laughs while bringing together two worlds – professional baseball and high school teams.
Director Kim Tae-young crafts a hilarious story as a washed-up MLB pitcher coaches a ragtag Korean high school team. After fiery first meetings, the mismatched duo must work together to revive their baseball dreams.
At its core, A Clean Sweep is about rediscovering passion and giving second chances. Though from different generations, the characters bond through their love of baseball and desire to prove themselves. Their clashing personalities generate lots of comedy.
Siwan shines in his first sports comedy role, nailing the perfect sad-sack pitcher. His deadpan reactions play off the teenage hijinks perfectly. The young cast brings infectious energy with their quirky chemistry.
Visually, the film pops with color and energy. Kim Tae-young captures the exuberance of youth against lively baseball backdrops. The score ramps up at all the right moments to underscore the humor.
Aimed at teens, A Clean Sweep offers universal laughs. The generation gap jokes and culture clash moments will crack up audiences of all ages. Don’t forget to watch this feel-good movie.
How Do You Know (2012) – “Choose between a Baseball Womanizer and a Corporate Executive“
Audience Score
- IMDb Ratings: 5.4/10
- Rotten Tomatoes Scores:30%
I didn’t know what to expect going into the rom-com How Do You Know with Reese Witherspoon, Paul Rudd, and Owen Wilson.
“Yep, it has an all-star cast and fun baseball backdrop, but unfortunately this film didn’t quite knock it out of the park for me.”
The plot follows Lisa (Witherspoon) as she gets cut from the U.S. softball team and unexpectedly falls into a love triangle with womanizer baseball player Matty (Wilson) and corporate exec George (Rudd). She struggles to choose between these two very different men.
Director James L. Brooks goes for a comedic love story here, but it’s bogged down by too many subplots.
Witherspoon tries her best with the material, bringing her signature charm and comic timing. Rudd is affable as always. But Wilson feels miscast as the suave ladies’ man.
For a movie centered around sports stars, there isn’t much memorable baseball action. Most scenes take place off the field in sterile apartments and offices. Visually it’s rather flat. The bland instrumental soundtrack doesn’t add much spark either.
I found myself disengaging as the plot meandered. The editing could have been tighter to pick up the laughs.
So, I’d recommend How Do You Know for diehard fans of the lead actors, but otherwise, it’s probably not worth stepping up to the plate for. With better direction and script, the potential was here for a real cinematic home run.
The Hill – Best Upcoming Baseball Movie on Netflix
I just heard about this new baseball movie hitting Netflix soon called The Hill. It’s about this guy named Rickey Hill who has to overcome all these crazy challenges to make his dream of playing pro ball come true.
The cast looks awesome. Dennis Quaid is leading it, so you know the acting is gonna make you feel all the emotions. And it’s PG, so I can watch it with my kids too.
Just check out the trailer. It shows Rickey fighting against everything trying to stop him, but he just keeps pushing through. Total chills.
This one seems like it’ll show the blood, sweat, and tears that go into every player’s journey. Good stuff! I love sports movies based on a true story, so this sounds right up my alley!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the best sports movies on Netflix?
42, Hustle, The Battered Bastards of Baseball, Marry Kom, The Deepest Breath, Home Team, Moneyball – these are some of the best sports movies on Netflix.
Do all baseball movies on Netflix receive positive reviews?
Like any genre, baseball movies on Netflix have received mixed reviews from both critics and viewers. Some are total hits but others are swing and a miss. I get it, everyone has different tastes though. Like my buddy thinks Sandlot is the GOAT but personally, I wasn’t a huge fan. To each their own!
Is Rookie of the Year available on Netflix?
The famous 90s movie Rookie of the Year is no more available on Netflix. Now you can watch it on Amazon Prime.
What are the best baseball documentaries about famous baseball players?
Different OTT platforms have a great selection of documentaries focusing on some of baseball’s biggest legends and iconic moments. Here are a few fascinating baseball documentaries you can stream:
- Ken Burns’ Baseball (1994) – Epic, critically acclaimed documentary series covering baseball’s history from the 1800s to the 1990s.
- Fastball (2016) – Fascinating look at the art and science behind the fastball pitch featuring interviews with baseball legends.
- No No: A Documentary (2014) – Profile of Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Dock Ellis, including his historic 1970 no-hitter while under the influence of LSD.
- The Battered Bastards of Baseball (2014) – The incredible true story of the Portland Mavericks, an independent minor league team of misfits in the 1970s.
- Screwball (2019) – Offbeat account of the Alex Rodriguez doping scandal and the bizarre characters involved in the fallouts.
Are there any family-friendly baseball movies available?
Many great baseball movies are perfect for families and viewers of all ages:
- The Sandlot (1993) – This classic coming-of-age story follows young boys bonding over baseball in the 1950s. It’s funny, wholesome, and packed with nostalgia.
- Angels in the Outfield (1994) – A foster child prays for his struggling Little League team to start winning and mysteriously receives help from angels on the field. An uplifting Disney fun.
- The Rookie (2002) – Dennis Quaid stars as a high school baseball coach pursuing his dream of pitching in the majors as a middle-aged rookie. Inspiring true story.
- A League of Their Own (1992) – Geena Davis, Tom Hanks, and Madonna star in this crowd-pleaser about a 1940s women’s professional baseball league. Empowering for all.
- The Bad News Bears (1976) – Walter Matthau coaches a ragtag Little League team trying to turn their losing streak around. Charming story with plenty of laughs.
Can I watch baseball movies on Netflix outside the United States?
Netflix’s movie library varies by region. Like the options in the U.S. library are different than in other countries. It’s a bummer when you can’t access the good stuff!
But the good news is you can use a VPN to get around all that. Just connect to a U.S. server and you’ll have the whole American Netflix at your fingertips no matter where you really are. It’s pretty sweet.
Wrapping Up
And there you have it – a who’s who rundown of all the dopest baseball movies on Netflix right now. Whether you eat, sleep, and breathe baseball or just need some solid entertainment, these movies are guaranteed heavy hitters.
From Moneyball’s killer true story about big league stats to A League of Their Own’s girl power vibes, there’s something for every fan here. I don’t care who you are, these films will be surefire home runs.
Hello everyone. My name is Jason Butler, and I live in California, America. I was a professional AAA Minor League Baseball player. I lost my chance of playing MLB for injury issues, but I did not lose my love for baseball. I attended the coaching training program and am now working as a coach in a small school in San Diego.
I always love to share my experience and knowledge if that can help you. Play baseball, and stay fit.