Major League is a baseball bible of quotes. Even those who aren’t familiar with our national pastime will likely find themselves shrugging off a line or two while watching a game, and for all the right reasons. Director and screenwriter David S. Ward wired his 1989 comedy with the kind of fastball dialogue that zooms by organically, which is why so many of our favorite quotes have simply become a part of our vernacular.
Thirty years later, the ballpark comedy resonates for a multitude of reasons, be it the underdog story, the communal class structure of the film’s setting, or the all-star ensemble cast. But, for most, it really goes back to that dialogue, and how so many of its lines connect with the ways we might react. How it’s managed to connect to multiple generations in the wake of its release speaks to that truth.
So, put down that comic book adaptation of Moby Dick, and step up to the plate below.
“Yeah, we got uniforms and everything. It’s really great.”
“To hell with it.”
“We should’ve got the live chicken.”
“Who gives a shit? It’s gone.”
“Win the whole … fucking … thing.”
“The American Express Card. Don’t steal home without it.”
“Strike this motherfucker out.”
“Get in front of the damn ball! Don’t give me this ‘¡Olé!’ bullshit!”
“Bring that shit to me, man.”
“Juuust a bit outside.”
