Ep 11. The Tenth Inning - Bottom of the Tenth

In the season 1 episode 11 of Baseball: A Film by Ken Burns titled The Tenth Inning - Bottom of the Tenth, viewers are taken on a journey through the evolution of baseball in the years following World War II. As the world changes, so does baseball, and viewers witness the challenges and triumphs that come with these changes.

The episode begins by revisiting the Civil Rights Movement and how it impacted baseball. Jackie Robinson is highlighted as a trailblazer, who broke the color barrier and paved the way for other African American players to follow. The episode documents the struggles and discrimination that these players faced, including those on the Boston Red Sox team, which was the last team to integrate.

Another theme in the episode is the rise of Latin American players in baseball. Viewers witness how these players brought their own unique style to the game, and how teams incorporated their talent into their gameplay. The episode also showcases the challenges these players faced in adapting to American culture and the language barrier.

The episode also highlights the changes in the game itself, as it became more focused on statistics and metrics. Sabermetrics, a statistical analysis technique, is introduced and how it has impacted the way baseball teams scout and draft players.

Viewers are also shown how baseball became a symbol of hope and healing during times of tragedy, such as after 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina. The New York Mets are highlighted for their efforts in bringing the city together after the terrorist attacks.

As the episode comes to a close, viewers are taken to the bottom of the tenth inning of Game 6 in the 1986 World Series between the Boston Red Sox and New York Mets. This historic game is remembered for its dramatic conclusion, as the Mets managed to come back and win the game, despite being down to their final out.

Overall, The Tenth Inning - Bottom of the Tenth highlights the ways in which baseball has evolved and changed over time. From cultural and societal changes to changes in gameplay and statistics, viewers witness how baseball has become a reflection of the world in which it exists. The episode is a must-watch for any baseball fan, as it offers a comprehensive look at the sport's history and impact on American culture.