Baseball season may be over, but there’s no off-season when it comes to great baseball films. And as the nights draw in, what better time to curl up with a good movie?
We asked the ThunderKnights to cast their votes, and after plenty of debate, here are the team’s top nine baseball movies; counted down from #9 to the unanimous favourite.
9. BASEketball (1998)
Ok, this is our left field pick. A real curveball. It was a write-in nomination from Angus Blair.
BASEketball is a chaotic blend of slapstick comedy, sports parody, and late-90s absurdity. Staring Trey Parker and Matt Stone, the minds behind South Park, it isn’t “baseball” in the traditional sense, but its irreverent humour, ridiculous rules, and underdog spirit have made it a cult favourite.
8. Bull Durham (1988)
Chosen by: Doug Sutherland, Thunder Manager.
Long before analytics took over the game, Bull Durham showed the beauty, frustration, and poetry of minor league ball. Kevin Costner’s veteran catcher, a young Tim Robbins, and Susan Sarandon’s iconic Annie Savoy combine for a smart, witty, and deeply baseball-savvy film. A favourite for anyone who appreciates the grind behind the game.
7. Mr. Baseball (1992)
Chosen by: Shaun Barrett.
What happens when a loud, brash American slugger is traded to Japan? Culture shock, comedy, and surprisingly, some of the best cross-culture baseball storytelling ever filmed. Tom Selleck’s moustache alone earns this one a spot on the list, but the genuine heart beneath the humour is what keeps players coming back.
Fun Fact: Knights player Al Galpin wears #54 because of this movie, the number worn in Japan by Tom Selleck.
6. Rookie of the Year (1993)
Chosen by: Ivan Kwan.
Few childhood baseball dreams top suddenly gaining a 100-mph fastball. This family classic taps into pure wish-fulfilment: a kid playing in the big leagues, Wrigley Field roaring behind him. Half fantasy, half comedy, all nostalgia. It’s the film that made many of us check our arms after slipping on a staircase.
Into the top 5 now, and it’s down to the movies which all received multiple votes from our players!
5. 42 (2013)
Starring: Chadwick Boseman, Harrison Ford
42 tells the powerful and moving true story of Jackie Robinson’s groundbreaking entry into Major League Baseball in 1947 with the Brooklyn Dodgers. It features a brilliant performance from the late Chadwick Boseman and a memorable turn from Harrison Ford as Dodgers GM Branch Rickey. It’s respected for its emotional weight, historical importance, and the way it honours Robinson’s courage in breaking baseball’s colour barrier. Inspiring, moving, and essential, the movie remains essential viewing for baseball fans and non-fans alike.
4. A League of Their Own (1992)
Starring: Geena Davis, Tom Hanks, Madonna, Lori Petty
A League of Their Own tells the story of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League during World War II. With standout performances and memorable moments; like Tom Hanks shouting “There’s no crying in baseball!” It’s funny, heartfelt, and inspiring. It endures because it showcases women’s impact on the sport, blending history, humour, and real emotional depth.
3. Field of Dreams (1989)
Starring: Kevin Costner, James Earl Jones, Ray Liotta
A magical, emotional classic, Field of Dreams tells the story of Iowa farmer Ray Kinsella, who hears the famous whisper: “If you build it, he will come.” What follows is a heartfelt journey about family, hope, and the lasting pull of baseball. Kevin Costner anchors the film with warmth and sincerity. It remains loved because it captures the romantic, almost mythical side of the sport; baseball as memory, connection, and healing.
2. The Sandlot (1993)
Starring: Tom Guiry, Mike Vitar, James Earl Jones
A beloved coming-of-age film, The Sandlot follows a group of neighbourhood kids enjoying a summer of baseball, mischief, and friendship. Told with huge nostalgia and charm, it’s one of the most quotable baseball movies ever (“You’re killin’ me, Smalls!”). Fans love it because it reminds them why they fell in love with the game in the first place; simple joy, wide-open summers, and playing for the love of it.
1. Moneyball (2011)
The clear winner, with double the number of votes of the runner up.
Moneyball combines modern baseball strategy with a true story of innovation, defiance, and rethinking the game from the ground up.
The movie tells the true story of Oakland A’s general manager Billy Beane as he builds a winning team using data analytics instead of big budgets. It blends smart writing with great performances, especially Brad Pitt’s understated lead role and great performances from Jonah Hill and Philip Seymour Hoffman.
Players love it because it shows the strategy behind the sport; how numbers, grit, and creativity can compete with raw power. It’s often the go-to favourite for anyone who enjoys the brainy side of baseball.
What do you think of the list?
Would you pick differently? Let us know; and maybe we’ll arrange a watch-along movie night this off-season.