Story of the Tampico Stogies, a low minor-league baseball team, and its star player and manager, Stud' Cantrell, as they battle for the league championship amidst the corruption and racism of the American south.
Acting
Petersen's raw, unglamorous vulnerability before fame.
Writing
Sharp dialogue that punches above its TV-movie weight.

Director
Martin Davidson
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Based on the Max Apple novel; filmed in Georgia but set in Mississippi, capturing authentic minor-league decay.
Virginia Madsen reportedly fought for Dixie's agency—her character was originally more caricature, less complex survivor.