In a major moment for both sports fans and documentary lovers, Netflix has officially announced the release of “The Underdog,” a riveting new documentary chronicling the life and career of Major League Baseball Hall of Famer Roberto Alomar. Slated for release later this year, the film promises to dive deep into the personal and professional journey of one of the Toronto Blue Jays’ most iconic figures. The announcement has generated widespread excitement, not only in Canada but throughout the baseball world, as audiences prepare to relive the unforgettable legacy of a true underdog turned legend.
A DOCUMENTARY YEARS IN THE MAKING
According to Netflix executives, “The Underdog” has been in development for nearly three years, with production teams gaining unprecedented access to Alomar’s personal archives, former teammates, coaches, family members, and historic game footage. The documentary spans more than four decades, beginning with Alomar’s humble upbringing in Ponce, Puerto Rico, and following his path through the minor leagues, his transformative years with the Blue Jays, and his eventual enshrinement in the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2011.
Executive producer Maria Cordero called the project “a labor of love” and emphasized the importance of telling Alomar’s story through a multicultural lens. “This is not just a baseball documentary,” she said. “This is a story about perseverance, identity, culture, and what it means to rise above expectations when the world doesn’t believe in you.”
FROM PONCE TO THE PINNACLE OF MLB
Roberto Alomar, born into a baseball family, was the son of MLB veteran Sandy Alomar Sr. and the younger brother of catcher Sandy Alomar Jr. Despite his pedigree, Roberto was often underestimated in his early years due to his smaller frame and quiet demeanor. But by the time he was 21, he had already established himself as a premier second baseman in the majors.
The documentary pays special attention to Alomar’s 1991 trade to the Toronto Blue Jays, a move that would forever change the course of Canadian baseball. Partnered with future Hall of Famers like Joe Carter and Paul Molitor, Alomar helped lead the Blue Jays to back-to-back World Series titles in 1992 and 1993 — the only championships in the franchise’s history to date. His clutch hitting, dynamic defense, and fiery spirit made him a fan favorite and an enduring symbol of Toronto’s golden era.
NEVER-BEFORE-SEEN FOOTAGE AND EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS
One of the standout features of “The Underdog” is its treasure trove of rare, never-before-seen footage. Viewers will be treated to behind-the-scenes moments from the Blue Jays’ locker rooms, intimate family gatherings, and candid conversations with Alomar himself. Additionally, the film includes exclusive interviews with baseball greats such as Ken Griffey Jr., Derek Jeter, Tony Fernández, and Tim Raines, as well as commentary from longtime Blue Jays announcer Buck Martinez and former manager Cito Gaston.
“It was an honor to speak about Roberto,” said Gaston in a preview clip. “He wasn’t just a great player — he was the heartbeat of that team. He had the passion, the vision, and the drive. And Toronto loved him for it.”
A LEGACY THAT TRANSCENDS BASEBALL
“The Underdog” goes beyond the highlight reels to explore the complexities of Alomar’s legacy. The film does not shy away from the challenges he faced, both on and off the field, including his highly publicized controversies and subsequent removal from MLB-affiliated roles in recent years. In a rare and vulnerable interview, Alomar addresses these moments head-on, offering insights into his personal growth, regrets, and hopes for redemption.
Director José Medina says this balance was crucial to telling a complete story. “We weren’t interested in making a puff piece. We wanted to show the full arc of a man who reached the highest highs and struggled through difficult lows. That’s what makes Roberto’s story powerful. That’s what makes it human.”
The documentary also touches on Alomar’s philanthropic work, particularly his dedication to youth baseball programs in Puerto Rico and underserved communities in Toronto. His foundation, launched in 2004, has helped thousands of young athletes find purpose, structure, and opportunity through the game he loved.
CULTURAL IMPACT AND NATIONAL PRIDE
In Canada, Alomar is more than a sports icon — he is a national treasure. He became the first Blue Jays player to have his number retired by the team, and his name remains synonymous with the franchise’s golden era. In “The Underdog,” Canadian fans share their emotional memories of Alomar’s greatness, recalling his legendary 1992 ALCS home run against Dennis Eckersley and his Gold Glove-winning defensive plays.
“Roberto gave Canada a reason to believe we could play on the big stage,” said one longtime fan interviewed in the film. “He put us on the map. For a lot of us, he was our childhood hero.”
The documentary underscores the broader significance of Alomar’s rise, especially for Latin American athletes who often face language barriers, cultural adjustments, and systemic biases in professional sports. As one segment of the film explores, Alomar’s success opened doors for a new generation of Latino stars who followed in his footsteps.
CRITICAL BUZZ AND AWARD SEASON HOPES
Though it has yet to be released to the public, “The Underdog” has already made waves on the film festival circuit, earning standing ovations during early screenings at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and the Tribeca Film Festival. Critics have praised the documentary for its emotional depth, sharp editing, and honest storytelling.
Rumors are already swirling about possible nominations at the upcoming Sports Emmy Awards and even the Academy Awards in the Best Documentary Feature category. Netflix is reportedly positioning the film as a centerpiece of its fall slate, betting big on its global appeal.
A STORY WORTH TELLING, A LEGEND WORTH CELEBRATING
As anticipation builds for the official release of “The Underdog,” fans and analysts alike agree: this is more than just a documentary — it’s a celebration of passion, perseverance, and the power of sport to inspire. Roberto Alomar’s journey is one that resonates across generations, cultures, and borders.
“Everyone has a story,” Alomar says in the film’s emotional closing scene. “Mine just happened to be written on a baseball field.”
With “The Underdog,” Netflix has crafted a stirring, cinematic tribute to a man whose legacy, though complex, remains unforgettable