The Best Baseball Movie Screenplays You Can Learn From
For me, summer always begins with baseball. Whether it’s dusting off the glove for a pickup game or just watching the Phillies on TV, the season brings back that unmistakable connection to America’s favorite pastime.
It’s also the time I rewatch my favorite baseball movies—and revisit the screenplays that made them timeless. If you’re a screenwriter, filmmaker, or sports movie enthusiast, these scripts are goldmines of character, emotion, and structure.
Here are some of the best baseball screenplays worth reading and learning from—for educational purposes only, of course.
Top Baseball Screenplays for Writers and Fans
1. Bull Durham (1988) – Written by Ron Shelton
Why it’s great:
Shelton brings lived-in realism to this romantic comedy set in the minor leagues. With sharp dialogue, layered characters (Crash Davis, Nuke Laloosh, Annie Savoy), and philosophical undertones, Bull Durham transcends sports—it’s about love, belief, and second chances.
Awards:
Nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay
Winner of multiple critics’ awards including the WGA
2. Field of Dreams (1989) – Written by Phil Alden Robinson
Why it’s great:
“If you build it, he will come.” This quote alone defines the emotional pull of this film. Adapted from W.P. Kinsella’s novel, the script explores fatherhood, faith, regret, and redemption through the lens of baseball. It’s magical realism with a catcher’s mitt.
Awards:
Nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay at the Oscars and WGA
3. Moneyball (2011) – Screenplay by Steven Zaillian & Aaron Sorkin
Why it’s great:
Turning statistics into story isn’t easy—but Sorkin and Zaillian make it a thrill. Centering on Billy Beane and the Oakland A’s sabermetrics strategy, the script transforms numbers into gripping character drama.
Awards:
Oscar-nominated
Critics’ Choice and AWFJ winner for Best Adapted Screenplay
4. A League of Their Own (1992) – Written by Lowell Ganz & Babaloo Mandel
Why it’s great:
Women’s baseball gets the spotlight in this funny, touching, and empowering screenplay. With unforgettable characters and one-liners (“There’s no crying in baseball!”), the film balances history with humor.
Awards:
While under-recognized at award shows, its screenplay is still beloved for its cultural impact.
5. Sugar (2008) – Written by Anna Boden & Ryan Fleck
Why it’s great:
A deeply human look at the journey of a Dominican pitcher trying to make it in America. Less flashy, more intimate. The film’s strength lies in its authenticity and quiet power.
Awards:
Winner of the Humanitas Prize
Nominated at Independent Spirit Awards
6. Major League (1989) – Written by David S. Ward
Why it’s great:
One of the funniest sports movies ever made. Hilarious, heartfelt, and endlessly quotable, this underdog story with eccentric players still delivers big laughs.
Awards:
Not heavy on accolades, but a pop-culture staple. Its characters and lines live on in every baseball fan’s heart.
Final Thoughts
Baseball movies aren’t just about the sport—they’re about the people, the stakes, the dreams. These screenplays teach us about structure, subtext, and crafting iconic characters. Whether you’re a screenwriter or a casual fan, there’s so much to learn (and love) here.
Which of these is your favorite baseball script? Did I miss one? Let’s talk about it in the comments!
