Netflix Following Disney? Streaming Giant Enters Major New Business

Most people know that Disney is really big in the sports industry, mainly because the company owns ESPN. But did you know that Disney has also owned actual sports teams in the past? This includes the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, and the Anaheim Ducks. That’s why we can look back and enjoy movies like Angels in the Outfield (1994) and The Mighty Ducks trilogy (1992-1996).

Credit: Disney

And now, it looks like another major studio is following in Disney’s footsteps and getting into the sports arena. And it is a company that has been following Disney for a long time — Netflix.

Earlier this month, Netflix announced that they were teaming up with an iconic baseball team, The Boston Red Sox, who home base is the iconic Fenway Park. Together, the studio and the team will create two documentaries — one based on the 2004 season and one based on the upcoming 2024 season.

Credit: Jesse Douglas Flickr

You might be wondering why Netflix would want to focus on a season that happened 20 years ago. But, 2004 Red Sox season was when a miracle happened. The Red Sox were down three games to none in the division series against their rivals, the New York Yankees. They then came back and beat the Yankees four games in a row to advance to the World Series. They would go on to win the World Series for the first time in 86 years.

Netflix was very excited when they made the announcement, telling fans that the studio will have “unprecedented access to players, coaches and executives throughout the 2024 season.”

Credit: NESN

Of course, that will put A LOT of pressure on the team to perform this season. The team had a dismal 2023, coming in last place in their division, and not even making it to the playoffs. But the Red Sox players are more determined than ever to prove themselves. Rafael Devers, the team’s all-star third baseman, said, “Nobody wants to be on Netflix as a losing team. That’s a bad look.”

Unfortunately, the Red Sox front office has not made many big moves in the off-season, so Netflix is taking a big risk in making a documentary about a potentially disastrous season. The team (and Netflix) definitely have an uphill battle.

Credit: MLB.TV

However, if the Red Sox docuseries proves successful, Netflix will find itself with the doors wide open and possibly decide to create more films about iconic sports teams in the future. Major League Baseball could be the first step.

Are you excited to hear about the Netflix and Red Sox team-up? Let us know in the comments!