Major League (film)

Major League is a 1989 American sports comedy film directed by David S. Ward, starring Tom Berenger, Charlie Sheen, Wesley Snipes, James Gammon, Bob Uecker, and Rene Russo. The film follows the story of the Cleveland Indians, whose new owner intentionally assembles a terrible team so she can move the franchise to Miami and build a domed stadium. However, the underdogs begin winning, thwarting her plans.

The plot centers around Rachel Phelps, the widow of the team's owner, who inherits the Cleveland Indians. Seeking to break the team's lease and relocate to sunny Florida, she assembles a roster of untalented and problematic players, believing their poor performance will lead to low attendance and justify the move. The team includes Jake Taylor, an aging catcher with bad knees; Rick Vaughn, a wild and erratic pitcher just out of prison; Willie Mays Hayes, a speedy but undisciplined outfielder; and Pedro Cerrano, a powerful but superstitious slugger.

Despite their initial dysfunction and constant bickering, the players begin to bond and improve their skills. They are fueled by their desire to prove Phelps wrong and stay in Cleveland. As they start winning games, their popularity rises, attendance increases, and Phelps' relocation plan is threatened.

The film is known for its comedic portrayal of baseball and its memorable characters. It features iconic moments and lines that have become ingrained in baseball culture. Major League spawned two sequels, Major League II (1994) and Major League: Back to the Minors (1998), though neither achieved the critical or commercial success of the original. It remains a popular sports film and a cult classic.