Baseball meets comedy in an electrifying new documentary from MLB Studios, now streaming free on The Roku Channel. Comedian and lifelong baseball fan Roy Wood Jr. sets out on a cross-country road trip to explore the past, present, and cultural power of one of the sport’s most iconic spectacles: the Home Run Derby.
From legendary long balls to behind-the-scenes stories, this new sports special is a nostalgic and heartfelt celebration of baseball’s most thrilling play—the home run.
An All-Star Lineup and a Legendary Tradition
Hosted by Wood Jr., a former “Daily Show” correspondent known for his wit and storytelling, the documentary features a dynamic roster of baseball greats and sports broadcasters. Audiences can expect appearances from:
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Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman, current MLB stars who have lit up the Derby stage.
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Jazz Chisholm Jr., Pete Alonso, and Teoscar Hernandez, offering insights into the mindset of modern-day power hitters.
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Albert Pujols, whose Derby appearances and home run legacy continue to inspire a generation.
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Chris Berman and Bob Costas, the voices of countless home run calls and the guardians of baseball storytelling.
Through candid interviews and classic footage, the documentary dives into the Home Run Derby’s transformation from a midseason novelty into a high-stakes spectacle watched by millions.
Why the Home Run Still Captivates
Baseball is a game of inches, but the home run breaks all the rules. It’s powerful, theatrical, and emotional—and that’s exactly why Roy Wood Jr. wanted to explore it. Across his journey, he visits ballparks, chats with fans, and relives unforgettable Derby moments that have defined summer for generations.
What makes a Derby home run unforgettable? According to players and commentators:
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The raw sound of the bat connecting with the ball.
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The awe of a ball sailing over 450 feet into the night sky.
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The pressure of the clock, creating real-time drama.
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The personalities—flashy, focused, fun—that make the event a fan favorite.
This documentary also touches on how the Derby has evolved—from a simple contest to a primetime celebration of athleticism, personality, and baseball’s enduring charm.
A Streaming Home Run
The film is a collaboration between MLB Studios and The Roku Channel, the go-to destination for free ad-supported streaming. Since its launch in 2017, The Roku Channel has built a diverse lineup of over 80,000 movies and TV shows, plus hundreds of live channels and Roku Originals. This documentary marks another standout moment in Roku’s growing commitment to sports storytelling.
From the Diamond to the Screen
Produced by MLB Studios, the documentary is a testament to the League’s creative commitment to preserving and showcasing baseball’s most compelling moments. With Emmy-winning productions like “The Comeback: 2004 Boston Red Sox” and “After Jackie”, MLB Studios continues to innovate at the intersection of history, culture, and sport.
Roy Wood Jr.’s Home Run Derby journey is more than a sports documentary—it’s a love letter to baseball and the magic of the long ball. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer to the game, this film promises laughter, memories, and deep appreciation for the home run that never gets old.
Report Mark Winkler
