Pastime (film)

Pastime is a 1991 American baseball drama film directed by Robin B. Armstrong. The film stars William Russ, Glenn Plummer, and Scott Plank.

The film centers on Roy Dean Bream (Russ), a washed-up minor league baseball pitcher in the California Angels organization, relegated to the Class D Tri-City Eagles of the Pioneer League. Bream is struggling to cope with the end of his career and faces pressure to retire. He reluctantly takes a young, talented black pitcher named Tyrone Debray (Plummer) under his wing. Debray, though possessing exceptional natural ability, is raw and inexperienced. The film explores their evolving relationship as Bream mentors Debray, helping him to refine his skills and navigate the racial biases present in the sport. The movie also features Randy Keever (Plank), a driven, ambitious pitcher for the same team who represents the younger generation's approach to the game.

Pastime deals with themes of aging, fading dreams, mentorship, race relations in baseball, and the enduring appeal of the sport. While not a major commercial success upon its release, it has gained a following for its realistic portrayal of the lower levels of professional baseball and its sensitive treatment of its characters. The film received positive reviews for its performances and its nostalgic depiction of a bygone era in baseball.