"Angels in the Outfield" and "Rookie of the Year"

Baseball season is now finally here and in full swing (pun sort of intended). And, with the MLB season starting up, I wanted to take a look at a couple baseball-related movies that the whole family will enjoy - “Angels in the Outfield” (still can’t believe this is 30) and “Rookie of the Year.”

Foster kid Roger loves the Anaheim Angels, even though they’re the worst team in the major leagues.

His estranged dad promises to reunite the family if the Angels make it to the World Series, so Roger decides to ask for some divine help and prays that his favorite team will turn things around.

Soon, a real angel named Al shows up in response to Roger’s prayers, and Anaheim’s hopeless coach is shocked to see his team on a winning streak.

“Angels in the Outfield” has been one of my all-time childhood favorites and I still can’t believe this Disney favorite turned 30 last July! This 1994 movie is a terrific feel good movie that is an incredible watch for the whole family and pretty much for everyone.

The movie has several humorous moments scattered throughout, especially when the angels help the baseball team. Quite a few of those moments can make anybody laugh, especially when Christopher Lloyd is on the screen. Lloyd definitely has a few funny moments - like he always does!

In between all the humor and baseball fun, “Angels in the Outfield” also delivers some fairly dramatic moments, such as when Roger’s father had officially gave up custody (which that moment can be quite heartbreaking) and when it’s revealed that one of the ball players will be with the real angels soon.

Now, onto “Rookie of the Year”!

A freak accident causes 12 year old Little League player Henry to become such a powerful and accurate pitcher that the Chicago Cubs sign the junior high student to a contract.

Unprepared for such a high-pressure environment, Henry falters until aging fastballer Chet Steadman takes him under his wing and teaches him how to play in the big leagues.

Meanwhile, his mother’s boyfriend tries to eventually sell Henry’s contract to a hated opposing team.

“Rookie of the Year” is another early ‘90s favorite that the whole family can sit back, relax and enjoy. Sure, this 1993 baseball family comedy can be a bit cheesy at times, but this movie is still a fun time!

This movie does deliver some really funny moments, mainly from Daniel Stern (who’s mainly known for his quirky roles and also directed this movie). His role as Phil Brickman, who tries to help Henry out, gives him some weird, yet humorous advice. Stern’s over the top pitching manager will always make almost anyone chuckle.

While re-watching this movie, I almost forgot that Gary Busey, who wasn’t exactly known for being in family movies, appears as Chet Steadman.

You can find both “Angels in the Outfield” and “Rookie of the Year” on Disney Plus! For the next edition, I will be taking a look at another popular baseball classic!