Some of my fondest childhood memories are of going to baseball games. Whether it was heading downtown to an MLB game or watching my brother play with his team, I spent a lot of summers lounging in the bleachers, snacking on popcorn, and cheering on my favorite baseball team. While football tends to take the crown for the #1 sport in the United States, there’s something distinctly nostalgic and American about baseball. And even in the winter, when the season is over, it’s easy to keep your love of the game going by watching some of the best baseball movies for kids. 

If you’re in need of some family movie night inspiration, we’ve rounded up our picks for the best baseball movies for kids, from The Sandlot to Rookie of the Year. Whether your kiddos love watching baseball, play on a team, or are just starting to show interest in sports, these family-friendly sports movies are sure to keep them engaged from start to finish.

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Baseball Movies & Shows for Toddlers (Ages 2-3)

These toddler-friendly movies and episodes are perfect for little ones just starting to show an interest in baseball. They have short run times and easy to follow plots, while still tackling all the important parts of the game.

best baseball movies for kids
Source: Alaina Kaz

Goofy: How to Play Baseball (1942)

Rating: TV-G | Run Time: 8m | Where to Stream: Disney+

This Goofy short is an animated time capsule and a great way for toddlers to learn about baseball. Goofy plays all the different positions, demonstrating everything viewers need to know about classic American baseball. 

Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: Daniel Plays Ball (S1, E18)

Rating: TV-Y | Run Time: 22m | Where to Stream: Apple TV

In this episode of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, Daniel plays ball in the park, but grows frustrated when everybody can catch the ball except for him. Short and sweet, this toddler-friendly episode teaches kiddos important lessons about being patient and believing in yourself. 

Sesame Street: Big Bird’s First Day at Camp (S14, E02)

Rating: TV-Y | Run Time: 59m | Where to Stream: Tubi

It’s the first day of camp, and Big Bird is off to play baseball! Sesame Street is a timeless classic you can’t go wrong with, especially for those sports-obsessed toddlers.

More Baseball Movies & Shows for Toddlers

Baseball Movies & Shows for Kids (Ages 4–7)

These kid-friendly classics are perfect for kiddos who love to sport their Little League jersey on and off the diamond. Adults will enjoy watching them, too.

Angels in the Outfield (1994)

Rating: PG | Run Time: 1h 42m | Where to Stream: Disney+

In this Disney favorite, 11-year-old Roger prays for a chance to resurrect a last-place baseball team, but is shocked when a band of fun-loving angels answers the call. Soon, they’re on an unimaginable winning streak, and Roger begins to wonder if miracles really can happen. 

The Rookie (2002)

Rating: G | Run Time: 2h 9m | Where to Stream: Disney+

A high school baseball coach who lost out on his chances at the majors is given one more shot, but only if his perpetually losing team can turn things around. Kiddos will have lots to learn about strength and hard work from this family favorite. 

Eddie’s Million Dollar Cook-Off (2003)

Rating: TV-G | Run Time: 1h 25m | Where to Stream: Disney+

When baseball prodigy Eddie enters a cooking competition on the same day as his team’s playoff game, he’s forced to consider if he can really fulfill all of his obligations at once. This Disney classic is perfect for those who love what High School Musical has to say about self-expression and confidence.

More Baseball Movies & Shows for Kids

Baseball Movies & Shows for Tweens (Ages 8–12)

These baseball movies will leave your sports-obsessed tween excited to get back out onto the field. Many are based on true stories and tackle themes like hard work and perseverance.

Rookie of the Year (1993)

Rating: PG | Run Time: 1h 43m | Where to Stream: Netflix or Disney+

An iconic movie the whole family will love! Rookie of the Year picks up as 12-year-old Henry breaks his arm throwing a fastball. When he gets his cast off, he discovers that the injury has granted him a new gift: the ability to throw a 100-mph fastball. Soon, he’s recruited to the pros and is whisked away on an adventure beyond his wildest dreams.

best baseball movies for kids
Source: Michael P. Weinstein | TM and Copyright ©20th Century Fox Film Corp. All rights reserved. | Courtesy Everett Collection

A League of Their Own (1992)

Rating: PG | Run Time: 2h 8m | Where to Stream: Netflix

As World War II unfolds, sisters Dottie and Kit join the first pro baseball league for women. But when sibling rivalry comes to a head, their league and dreams are threatened. While comedic and lighthearted, A League of Their Own is special because of how it tackles sexism in women’s sports—it’s a great watch for a tween!

The Sandlot (1993)

Rating: PG | Run Time: 1h 43m | Where to Stream: Disney+

Is there any better summertime nostalgia movie on this list? The Sandlot follows fifth-grader Scotty Smalls as he is taken under the wing of baseball prodigy Benny Rodriguez. Soon, he bonds with a group of local kids over their daily games, but trouble chases him when Smalls’ stepdad’s prized Babe Ruth-signed baseball gets lost over a fence.

More Baseball Movies & Shows for Tweens

Baseball Movies & Shows for Teens (Ages 13+)

You’ll love watching these iconic films with your teen. From Moneyball to Bad News Bears, make sure to save these for your next family movie night.

Fever Pitch (2005)

Rating: PG-13 | Run Time: 1h 43m | Where to Stream: Apple TV

When high school teacher Ben Wrightman and business consultant Lindsey Meeks meet, their attraction is immediate. There’s only one thing getting in the way of their relationship: baseball, and the fact that Ben lives and breathes it, while Lindsey couldn’t care less. As Ben’s beloved Boston Red Sox kick off another season, the pair must decide if they’re willing to fight for their relationship, or if they’re bound to strike out. 

best baseball movies for kids
Source: 20th Century Fox Film Corp | Everett Collection

Moneyball (2011)

Rating: PG-13 | Run Time: 2h 13m | Where to Stream: Netflix

Based on the inspiring true story, Moneyball follows Oakland A’s general manager Billy Beane as he sets off to get his team the resources and money they need. For teens, this is a great watch to teach about standing up for what’s right and not backing down from what you want. 

More Baseball Movies & Shows for Teens

FAQs

What are the best baseball movies for a family movie night?

The best baseball movies for family movie nights work across multiple age groups and can even be enjoyed by adults! Consider nostalgic films like The Sandlot and A League of Their Own. They’re rated PG and are appropriate for kids, yet also entertaining.

What baseball movies are inspired by real MLB players?

Baseball movies that are inspired by real MLB players include classic picks like A League of Their Own, Moneyball, and 42. Additionally, A Jackie Robinson Story is also inspired by the real-life player.

Are there animated baseball movies for kids?

Yes, there are animated baseball movies for kids, though most of them are episodes of television series best for toddlers and little kids. These include Goofy: How to Play Baseball, The Magic School Bus: Plays Ball (S1, E10), and Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: Daniel Plays Ball (S1, E18).

Rebecca Smith
ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Rebecca Smith, Editorial Assistant

As an Editorial Assistant, Rebecca works with The Everymom team on updating existing content, photo sourcing, pitching original articles, and more. She’s passionate about creating authentic and diverse online content and is thrilled to help women of all ages feel represented.