Netflix has officially announced the release date for one of its most anticipated sports documentaries of the year:
“The Underdog,” a deep and emotional look into the life and career of
Boston Red Sox legend David Ortiz. The documentary, which chronicles Ortiz’s journey from the barrios of the Dominican Republic to the Baseball Hall of Fame, is set to premiere on
Friday, July 4th weekend, making it a centerpiece of America’s Independence Day festivities.
With the Red Sox legend affectionately known as “Big Papi,” the release of
The Underdog is expected to resonate not just with baseball fans, but with anyone who appreciates a true rags-to-riches story, told with heart, humor, and resilience.
A Story Worthy of the Spotlight
David Ortiz’s story is the stuff of legend. Born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Ortiz grew up under difficult conditions, but his powerful bat and magnetic personality eventually made him a household name in Major League Baseball. Known for his clutch hitting, towering home runs, and leadership both on and off the field, Ortiz became the face of the Red Sox during their historic World Series runs in 2004, 2007, and 2013.
“The Underdog” promises to go far beyond the highlight reels. According to Netflix, the film takes a “raw and unfiltered” look into Ortiz’s journey — from his early life in poverty, his challenges in the minors, the heartbreak of being released by the Minnesota Twins, to his improbable rise as a postseason hero and Boston icon.
“David’s story is not just about baseball,” said executive producer LeBron James, who also narrates parts of the documentary. “It’s about hope. It’s about proving people wrong. And it’s about showing the world that where you come from doesn’t have to define where you’re going.”
Behind the Scenes: Who Made “The Underdog”
The film is directed by Emmy Award-winner Ezra Edelman, best known for
O.J.: Made in America. The production is a collaboration between Netflix, SpringHill Entertainment (LeBron James’s company), and MLB Films. It includes never-before-seen footage from Ortiz’s personal archives, exclusive interviews with family members, teammates, opponents, and global sports icons.
Featured in the documentary are candid sit-downs with:
- Alex Rodriguez, former rival and friend
- Pedro Martinez, fellow Dominican and Red Sox teammate
- Derek Jeter, Yankee captain and longtime opponent
- Barack Obama, who famously honored Ortiz at the White House
- Manny Ramirez, Ortiz’s iconic slugging partner
Also included are emotional segments with Ortiz’s children and his longtime partner Tiffany Ortiz, providing insight into the man behind the legend.
The Trailer: A Glimpse Into the Heart of “Big Papi”
The first trailer, released today across Netflix’s social media platforms, opens with black-and-white footage of a young Ortiz hitting bottle caps in the streets of Santo Domingo — a nod to how many Dominican stars develop their swing. A voiceover from Ortiz says:
“They said I wasn’t good enough. I wasn’t fast enough. I didn’t come from the right place. But I knew I had one thing they couldn’t measure — heart.”
The trailer then flashes through some of his career’s most iconic moments: the walk-off against the Yankees in the 2004 ALCS, his emotional speech at Fenway after the Boston Marathon bombing, and his final game at Fenway Park in 2016.
Within hours of its release, the trailer trended on Twitter and YouTube, with fans and celebrities reacting to the emotional and inspiring teaser. ESPN’s Jeff Passan tweeted,
“Goosebumps. David Ortiz is not just a baseball icon — he’s a cultural legend. Can’t wait for this.”
Why Now?
The release of
The Underdog coincides with a time of renewed focus on Latin American athletes and the growing influence of Dominican players in the MLB. Ortiz has long been a symbol of this movement, using his platform to mentor younger players and advocate for more representation both in baseball and sports media.
In a recent interview, Ortiz commented on the documentary’s timing:
“I think it’s important for people to see where I come from, what I went through. I’m proud of my career, but I’m more proud of surviving everything before baseball ever gave me a chance.”
He added that he hopes young kids — especially those from underprivileged backgrounds — will watch the film and believe in their dreams.
More Than Baseball: Ortiz’s Legacy Off the Field
While Ortiz is best known for his exploits at the plate,
The Underdog also devotes substantial attention to his work off the field. From his philanthropic work through the
David Ortiz Children’s Fund, which helps children in the Dominican Republic and New England receive life-saving medical care, to his recovery from the near-fatal 2019 shooting in the Dominican Republic, Ortiz’s life has been one of resilience and purpose.
That harrowing moment — when Ortiz was shot in what was later determined to be a case of mistaken identity — is addressed head-on in the documentary. Ortiz, visibly emotional, says in one clip,
“I thought I was gone. I thought that was it. But God had other plans.”
The incident sparked an outpouring of support from around the world, with fans, former teammates, and even rival organizations offering prayers and tributes. Ortiz’s comeback from the shooting, which required multiple surgeries and a long recovery, is portrayed as a second chapter in his life — one defined not by home runs, but by healing and giving back.
Cultural Impact and Red Sox Nation’s Pride
In Boston, David Ortiz isn’t just a baseball player — he’s a civic hero. His post-marathon bombing speech at Fenway, in which he famously declared, “This is our f—ing city,” is etched into Boston history.
Fenway Park will be hosting a
special screening of
The Underdog on July 3rd for season ticket holders, community leaders, and local youth baseball teams. Mayor Michelle Wu has also declared July 4th as “David Ortiz Day” in Boston in honor of the film’s release.
Ortiz’s impact transcends sports. He is a symbol of hope, representation, and excellence for Latino communities across the U.S. and Latin America.
What to Expect From the Release
Netflix will premiere
The Underdog globally on
July 5th, 2025, just ahead of the MLB All-Star break. The film is rated TV-MA for language and adult themes, and runs approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes.
Netflix also announced companion content, including a behind-the-scenes podcast hosted by former MLB players, exclusive bonus interviews, and a limited-run David Ortiz merchandise drop through the Netflix Shop, featuring retro jerseys, custom cleats, and “Big Papi” bobbleheads.
Social media campaigns under the hashtags
#TheUnderdog and
#BigPapiDoc are expected to roll out in the weeks ahead, with Ortiz participating in interviews and fan Q&As leading up to the release.
Final Thoughts
The Underdog is shaping up to be far more than a sports documentary — it’s a celebration of grit, legacy, and the power of belief. David Ortiz’s story isn’t just about one man’s success; it’s about the dreams of millions who see a part of themselves in his journey.
As baseball continues to evolve, and as new stars emerge, “Big Papi” remains a timeless reminder that champions aren’t born — they’re made. And now, thanks to Netflix, the world will get to see the full, unfiltered story behind one of the greatest underdogs sports has ever seen.
