Netflix Baseball Movies 2017: 5 Best Films Streaming Before MLB Opening Day

Among the greatest sports movies of all time are several films that focus on baseball. “Bull Durham” and “Field of Dreams” became instant classics in the late 1980s, while “Moneyball” was nominated for best picture at the 2012 Academy Awards.

Those movies might not be so easy to find online, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t some good options for fans of the sport. In honor of Opening Day for the 2017 MLB season, here are five of the best baseball movies that are currently streaming on Netflix.

“Mr. 3000”

In one of his last movie roles before his death, Bernie Mac played a retired baseball player that returned to MLB in order to record his 3000th hit. It might not have been universally praised by critics, but it’s a unique story that will get you in the mood for the start of the 2017 season.

“Fastball”

With an 89 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes, most baseball fans should enjoy this documentary. Featuring interviews with Derek Jeter and other former MLB stars, the film takes a closer look at the fastball and pitchers that mastered the No.1 pitch in baseball.

“Knuckleball”

While “Fastball” examined the most common pitch in baseball, “Knuckleball” explored the one that only a few players in history have been able to master. With a 94 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes, it’s one of the most critically-acclaimed films on this list.

“The Battered Bastards of Baseball”

This Netflix original film has nothing to do with the major leagues. Instead, it’s a documentary about the only independent baseball team in 1973, one that had no affiliation with MLB. While not widely reviewed, it has all positive reviews on Rotten Tomatoes.

“The Phenom”

With a 2016 release, the movie features Paul Giamatti and Ethan Hawke. “The Phenom” focuses on a minor league pitcher and the complicated relationship he has with his overbearing father.