BREAKING NEWS: Netflix Announces “The Underdog” – A New Documentary About Houston Astros Legend Jeff Bagwell
In a major announcement that’s already sending shockwaves through the sports and entertainment worlds, Netflix has officially revealed the upcoming release of The Underdog, a highly anticipated documentary chronicling the life and career of Houston Astros legend Jeff Bagwell. The film is slated for global release on July 19, 2025, and promises an in-depth look at one of baseball’s most unique and revered figures.
Directed by Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Sarah Klein, The Underdog will explore Bagwell’s unlikely journey from an overlooked college player to one of Major League Baseball’s most feared hitters and a Hall of Fame inductee. The documentary will feature never-before-seen archival footage, exclusive interviews with Bagwell himself, former teammates like Craig Biggio and Lance Berkman, as well as insights from family members, sports journalists, and baseball historians.
Bagwell’s story is one of perseverance and transformation. Originally drafted by the Boston Red Sox but famously traded to Houston before ever playing a major league game, Bagwell would go on to define an era for the Astros. Over 15 seasons, he compiled an impressive list of achievements: a National League MVP award, four All-Star selections, and over 400 career home runs—all while remaining loyal to a single franchise.
Netflix describes The Underdog as “an unfiltered, emotional journey through the life of a man who defied the odds at every turn—on and off the field.” The documentary will also delve into Bagwell’s personal challenges, including injuries that nearly ended his career, his post-retirement battles with identity, and his eventual induction into Cooperstown in 2017.
Early teasers hint at a deeply personal and reflective narrative. One clip shows Bagwell returning to Houston’s Minute Maid Park, reflecting on the iconic moments of his career while acknowledging the struggles he faced outside the limelight.
Sports fans and documentary lovers alike have flooded social media with excitement since Netflix’s announcement. “Bagwell’s story is long overdue for this kind of spotlight,” one fan tweeted. “I can’t wait!”
The Underdog is part of Netflix’s broader push into sports storytelling, following the success of titles like The Last Dance and Quarterback. With its powerful subject matter and top-tier production team, The Underdog is already being pegged as a must-watch event of the summer.
Mark your calendars: Jeff Bagwell’s extraordinary story hits Netflix screens worldwide on July 19.