Netflix Releases “The Underdog,” a Highly Anticipated Documentary About Former Los Angeles Angels Franchise Icon and Hall of Famer Rod Carew, Slated for Release on..
Sports fans and documentary lovers alike are eagerly counting down the days as Netflix prepares to release *“The Underdog,”* a powerful new documentary chronicling the life and legacy of one of baseball’s most revered figures — Hall of Famer and former Los Angeles Angels legend Rod Carew. The film is set to premiere globally on **July 26**, promising an emotional and intimate look into the triumphs, struggles, and humanity of a player whose quiet resilience left an indelible mark on the game.
Carew, who spent seven seasons with the Angels after a legendary stint with the Minnesota Twins, is widely regarded as one of the greatest hitters in baseball history. But *“The Underdog”* goes far beyond batting averages and Gold Gloves — it tells the story of a man who overcame systemic challenges, personal tragedy, and serious health battles, all while maintaining his dignity, humility, and love for the game.
### A Story of Heart and Humanity
Directed by Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Tasha Green, *“The Underdog”* weaves together archival footage, interviews with former teammates, family members, and current MLB stars, along with exclusive reflections from Carew himself. The documentary traces his early years as a Panamanian immigrant growing up in New York City, his meteoric rise in the Major Leagues, and his evolution into a mentor, philanthropist, and advocate for heart health following a life-threatening cardiac episode in 2015.
In a newly released trailer, Carew’s voice is heard narrating:
*”I never thought of myself as the best — just a guy who never gave up. That’s what I want people to remember.”*
### More Than Baseball
*“The Underdog”* also highlights Carew’s off-field legacy, particularly his decades of work with underprivileged youth and his tireless campaigning for heart transplant awareness after surviving sudden cardiac arrest and receiving a new heart and kidney. One of the most emotional segments in the film explores the tragic passing of his daughter Michelle to leukemia at just 18 years old — a moment that reshaped Carew’s life and purpose.
Netflix executives have touted the documentary as one of their most moving sports films to date, emphasizing its universal message of perseverance, compassion, and quiet heroism.
“This is a story not just about baseball, but about what it means to endure and to uplift others in the face of loss and adversity,” said Cindy Holland, Netflix VP of Original Content. “Rod Carew represents the kind of heroism that rarely makes headlines — and that’s exactly why this film matters.”
### A Long-Awaited Tribute
Current and former players, including Shohei Ohtani, Mike Trout, Albert Pujols, and Torii Hunter, appear in the documentary to speak on Carew’s influence, not only as a player but as a person. Many cite him as a guiding figure and role model whose quiet leadership set a standard in every clubhouse he entered.
Fans of all ages will also get a rare glimpse behind the curtain of Carew’s life post-retirement, from his coaching stints with the Angels and Twins to his grassroots work with the Heart of 29 campaign — an initiative named after his iconic jersey number.
### A Moment of Celebration
To honor the film’s release, the Los Angeles Angels have announced a special “Rod Carew Night” at Angel Stadium on **July 25**, where fans will get a sneak peek of the documentary followed by a tribute ceremony. Carew himself is expected to attend, alongside members of his family and several of his former teammates.
As *“The Underdog”* prepares to debut on Netflix, it stands as more than a sports documentary — it’s a tribute to one of the game’s most inspiring figures. Rod Carew’s story is a reminder that greatness isn’t always loud — sometimes, it speaks softly, hits line drives, and lives in the hearts of millions.
**“The Underdog”** premieres **July
26**, exclusively on **Netflix**.