Fastball

Kevin Costner narrates (and, yes, drops in a plug for Bull Durham) this slick, tightly focused dissertation on the fastball pitch in baseball. Among the many top names interviewed: Nolan Ryan, Rich “Goose” Gossage, Mike Schmidt, Hank Aaron, George Brett, Johnny Bench, Joe Morgan, and Ernie Banks (Banks died before the film was released), as well as a certain Steve Dalkowski, a minor-leaguer who was shaping up to be an extraordinary fastball phenom in 1963 when an arm injury ended his career. Filmmaker Jonathan Hock's sports documentary could also have crossover appeal for science-minded viewers, as it not only addresses the lore of the fastball pitch but also the physics and even the perceptual/neurological aspects of a baseball hurled at 95 mph (or greater) that is heading towards a batter. Also featured here is rare footage of Sandy Koufax pitching a legendary 1965 “perfect game” (striking out all the Chicago Cubs at Dodger Stadium), and a demonstration using modern technology to determine the fastest of three pitchers of legend: Walter Johnson, Bob Feller, and Nolan Ryan. Sure to be appreciated by fans of the Great American Pastime (admittedly a disputed title today), this is recommended. [Note: DVD/Blu-ray extras include extended interviews (32 min.), an extended scene with subject Steve Dalkowski (12 min.), “Hall of Fame Outtakes” (3 min.), and trailers. Bottom line: a solid extras package for a fine sports documentary.] (C. Cassady)