Netflix Releases “The Underdog”: A Deep Dive into the Legacy of David Ortiz
Netflix is stepping up to the plate once again with its latest sports documentary, The Underdog: The Legacy of David Ortiz, a powerful new film chronicling the extraordinary life and career of one of baseball’s most beloved figures. Slated for release on June 15, 2025, the documentary offers an intimate look at how David “Big Papi” Ortiz rose from humble beginnings to become a Hall of Fame inductee and a cultural icon in Boston and beyond.
Directed by award-winning filmmaker Liz Garbus, The Underdog delves into Ortiz’s journey from the dusty fields of the Dominican Republic to the bright lights of Major League Baseball. Through rare archival footage, candid interviews, and personal stories from teammates, family, and friends, the film paints a vivid portrait of the man behind the legend.
Ortiz, known for his powerful swing and larger-than-life personality, spent the majority of his MLB career with the Boston Red Sox, where he became a cornerstone of the team’s success in the early 2000s. His clutch performances, especially during the 2004 postseason when the Red Sox broke the 86-year “Curse of the Bambino,” cemented his status as a Boston hero. Over his 20-season career, Ortiz racked up 541 home runs, 10 All-Star selections, and three World Series titles.
The Underdog doesn’t just celebrate Ortiz’s athletic achievements; it also explores his influence off the field. The film examines his role as a unifying figure in Boston, particularly after the tragic events of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing. Ortiz’s now-famous rallying cry, “This is our f***ing city,” became a moment of defiance and healing for the community—and it’s given its due weight in the documentary.
In a statement, Ortiz expressed his gratitude for the project: “I’ve always considered myself an underdog. This film is about my journey, the people who believed in me, and the city that embraced me as one of their own. I hope it inspires others to chase their dreams, no matter how far away they might seem.”
Netflix continues to expand its sports storytelling portfolio with The Underdog, following hits like The Last Dance and Quarterback. Early reactions from industry insiders hint that this documentary could be another home run, both for baseball fans and audiences new to Ortiz’s story.
The Underdog: The Legacy of David Ortiz will be available globally on Netflix starting June 15, 2025.