The Rookie
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The Rookie is a 2002 drama, directed by John Lee Hancock. It is based on the true story of Jim Morris, who had a brief but famous Major League Baseball career.
Twelve years prior to the setting of the movie, Jimmy Morris (played by Dennis Quaid) injured his shoulder, putting an end to his Minor League Baseball career as a pitcher. After that, he became a chemistry teacher, head baseball coach, and assistant football coach at a Texas high school. In an attempt to motivate and encourage his currently struggling high school team, he makes a deal with his players: if the team reaches the district playoffs, he will try out for Major League Baseball.
The team performs well, makes it to the playoffs, forcing Jimmy to meet his end of the bargain. When he does, the professional scouts discover his ability to throw the ball at 98 miles per hour, a feat that less than ten professional baseball players at the time could accomplish. This ability gives him the opportunity to play professional baseball and he signs on with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. He then is assigned to the Durham Bulls, but is later called up to the Major Leagues.
James Morris spent two seasons with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, as a relief pitcher. He pitched 15 innings in 21 games, with an earned run average of 4.80.
