10 Movies & Shows Like Major League (1989)

Description: This film is a precursor to 'Major League,' featuring a ragtag team of misfits who overcome odds to succeed. Both films use humor and heart to depict the underdog story, making them classics in the sports-comedy genre.

Fact: Walter Matthau's character was inspired by a real-life Little League coach. The film spawned two sequels and a 2005 remake. Tatum O'Neal's performance was praised for its authenticity.

Description: While 'The Natural' is more dramatic and mythical compared to 'Major League,' both films explore the theme of redemption and the love of baseball. 'The Natural' has a more serious tone but shares the underdog story element where the protagonist overcomes obstacles to succeed.

Fact: Robert Redford performed most of his own baseball scenes. The film's iconic home run scene was inspired by a real-life event involving a player named Eddie Waitkus. The movie's score was composed by Randy Newman, who later won an Oscar for 'Monsters, Inc.'

Description: Like 'Major League,' 'Bull Durham' is a comedic take on baseball, focusing on the minor leagues and the quirky personalities of the players. Both films blend humor with the love of the game, showcasing the behind-the-scenes antics and the personal growth of the characters.

Fact: Kevin Costner and Tim Robbins starred in the film, with Robbins learning to pitch left-handed for his role. The film was inducted into the National Film Registry in 2018 for being culturally significant. Susan Sarandon's character, Annie Savoy, was inspired by a real-life baseball groupie.

Description: Both 'Field of Dreams' and 'Major League' celebrate the magic and nostalgia of baseball. While 'Field of Dreams' leans more into fantasy and emotional depth, both films highlight the connection between baseball and personal dreams, making them spiritually similar.

Fact: The famous line 'If you build it, he will come' was voted the 39th greatest movie quote by AFI. The film was shot in Dyersville, Iowa, where the field still stands as a tourist attraction. Kevin Costner starred in both 'Field of Dreams' and 'Bull Durham,' making 1989 a big year for baseball films.

Description: This film shares 'Major League's' blend of comedy and sports drama, focusing on an underdog team (the Rockford Peaches) in a less traditional baseball setting (the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League). Both films highlight teamwork and overcoming societal expectations.

Fact: Tom Hanks' line 'There's no crying in baseball!' became iconic. The film was based on the real-life AAGPBL, which existed during WWII. Madonna and Rosie O'Donnell learned to play baseball for their roles.

Description: This film shares 'Major League's' underdog story and comedic tone, focusing on a kid who becomes a pitching sensation. Both films highlight unexpected talent and the joy of baseball, making them feel lighthearted and entertaining.

Fact: Thomas Ian Nicholas, the lead actor, had to learn to pitch left-handed for the role. The film features cameos from real MLB players like Barry Bonds. The movie's success led to a direct-to-video sequel.

Description: Like 'Major League,' 'The Sandlot' captures the fun and camaraderie of baseball, though from a childhood perspective. Both films use humor and heart to depict the love of the game, making them feel nostalgic and uplifting.

Fact: The film's famous line 'You're killing me, Smalls!' was improvised. The dog, Hercules, was played by a mastiff named The Beast. The movie was a sleeper hit, gaining popularity through home video releases.

Description: This film shares 'Major League's' focus on the personal and professional struggles of a baseball player. While more dramatic, both films highlight the emotional highs and lows of the sport, making them resonate with fans.

Fact: Kevin Costner's third baseball film after 'Bull Durham' and 'Field of Dreams.' The film was based on a novel by Michael Shaara. The baseball scenes were filmed at actual MLB stadiums.

Description: While 'Moneyball' is more analytical and serious, it shares 'Major League's' focus on an unconventional approach to building a winning team. Both films challenge traditional baseball norms and celebrate the underdog spirit.

Fact: Brad Pitt was nominated for an Oscar for his role as Billy Beane. The film is based on Michael Lewis's bestselling book. Jonah Hill's performance earned him his first Oscar nomination.

Description: Like 'Major League,' this film explores the human side of baseball, focusing on an aging scout and his daughter. Both films blend personal drama with the love of the game, though 'Trouble with the Curve' has a more serious tone.

Fact: Clint Eastwood's first acting role in a film he didn't direct since 199Amy Adams and Justin Timberlake starred alongside Eastwood. The film was shot in Georgia, standing in for various MLB cities.