On the occasion of his 71st birthday, Rick Cerone—the gritty catcher once labeled a journeyman but remembered as a Bronx battler—is finally getting his due. Netflix’s new documentary “The Underdog” peels back the layers of one of baseball’s most overlooked stories, delivering a moving portrait of a player who defied expectations, weathered controversy, and left an enduring legacy.
While Cerone may not have the stat lines of Cooperstown’s elite, his career was anything but forgettable. From stepping into the impossible shoes of the late Thurman Munson for the New York Yankees in 1980 to becoming a clubhouse stabilizer across seven Major League teams, Cerone’s baseball life was marked not by superstardom but by sheer resolve.
Directed by Emmy Award-winner Sarah Fine, “The Underdog” offers more than a highlight reel—it’s a character study of a man who fought for every inning. The documentary traces his rise from Newark, New Jersey, to Seton Hall stardom, and then into the crucible of Yankee Stadium, where the media scrutiny was relentless and the margin for error thin.
“I was never the most talented guy on the field,” Cerone says in a reflective voiceover. “But I believed in showing up, suiting up, and giving everything. That’s what I hope people remember.”
The film also explores Cerone’s Italian-American identity, his impact as a mentor to younger teammates, and his post-baseball ventures—from broadcasting to briefly owning the Newark Bears, a stint that underscored his passion for keeping baseball alive in local communities.
Former teammates like Reggie Jackson and Ron Guidry, as well as managers including Joe Torre, contribute candid reflections. “Rick was the kind of guy you wanted on your team when things got tough,” Torre notes in the film. “He wasn’t flashy, but he was tough as nails.”
Netflix timed the release of “The Underdog” with Cerone’s birthday, turning May 19 into a celebration of perseverance, character, and the underappreciated heroes of the game. In an era that increasingly values drama and depth over glamour, Rick Cerone’s story is resonating with a new generation of fans.
As the credits roll, Cerone is seen sitting in the stands of a quiet, empty stadium, watching the sun go down over home plate.
“You don’t need to be a Hall of Famer to make a mark,” he says with a smile. “You just need heart.”
Leave a Reply