Baseball has long been considered America’s favorite past time. Even with the constant drama, squabbles, and highly publicized reports of scandals such as steroid abuse, people still love baseball – whether it is playing it, watching it, or eating, sleeping, and breathing it, baseball is yet to completely fall out of popularity.
Among my own fondest childhood memories are the never-ending days of little league. Spring time has officially awakened the baseball bug in me, and perhaps it has in you and the special little guys and gals in your life, too. In celebrating this lovely time of the year, I have compiled a list of the best baseball themed movies for children. In no particular order:
Angels in the Outfield – 1994
Along with his best friend and fellow baseball fanatic, J.P., Roger Bomman is a recently orphaned child with only two wants in the entire world: to live with a real family, and for his favorite baseball team, the California Angels, to finally win the pennant. When the boys pray for the team’s victory, a surprising outcome takes place.
Perfect Game – 2000
An over-achieving and nasty coach is caught allowing only the best of the little leaguers to join his so-so team. When the not-so-hot players’ parents find out, they remove the star players and replace the coach with a grumpy yet fair old man. With his help and some hard work, the team just may be able to make it to the championship game.
Little Big League – 1994
When the owner of the Minnesota Twins dies unexpectedly, the team is inherited by the man’s grandson, Billy. At the young age of twelve, Billy knows everything there is to know about the sport, the history of the team, and the players, and decides to take a shot at managing the team all by himself. But how will a group of grown men respond to a child’s attempts at management?
The Sandlot – 1993
Scotty Smalls has always dreamed of playing baseball. When he moves to a new neighborhood with his mother and step-father, his wish is granted. The local guru, Rodriguez, takes Scotty under his wing and introduces him to the world of the sandlot, vicious baseball-eating dogs, tempting life guards, and tree house sleep overs.
Rookie of the Year – 1993
Despite his late father’s skill for playing in the minor leagues, 12-year-old Henry Rowengartner fails to live up to his own little league aspirations. When Henry accidentally breaks his arm, he discovers that once the bone has mended, he has earned a gift of superhero proportions: the ability to pitch. The boy is discovered at a Chicago Cubs game and is asked to join team. How long will Henry’s newfound magical skill last?
So what are you waiting for? Hop on Amazon or Ebay and stock up on these hilarious and heart warming children’s baseball classics while you still can.
