Everyone's Hero

In the midst of the Great Depression in 1932 New York City, we meet 10-year-old Yankee Irving. Despite his limited athletic skills, he dreams of recognition on the baseball field, finding solace in daydreams and his beloved talking baseball, Screwie.

Yankee's father, Stanley, works tirelessly as a custodian at the iconic Yankee Stadium. The family struggles with financial challenges, reflecting the harsh realities of the Great Depression.

One fateful day, a thief disguised as a security guard steals Babe Ruth's cherished bat, Darlin', right before Yankee and Stanley's eyes. This incident causes Stanley to be wrongfully accused and lose his job, thrusting the family into deeper distress.

Determined to clear his father's name and keep their home, Yankee discovers that Lefty Maginnis, a pitcher for the Chicago Cubs, is behind the theft. His journey of bravery and resilience begins as he decides to recover the stolen bat.

Yankee tracks down Lefty to a train station and manages to retrieve Darlin'. However, in the chaos of the moment, he finds himself unable to escape from the train that departs with him on board.

While aboard the train, Yankee discovers that Darlin' can speak to him, urging him to return the bat to Babe Ruth in Chicago, where the World Series is about to take place. This revelation sets the stage for his adventurous quest.

Yankee meets a colorful cast of characters, including hobos Andy, Louis, and Jack, who offer their support on his journey. Their friendship and camaraderie help bolster his spirit as he faces the challenges ahead.

During his adventure, Yankee encounters Marti Brewster and her father, Lonnie, a Negro league pitcher. Lonnie imparts valuable batting techniques to Yankee, aiding his growth as a baseball player.

Yankee finds himself in a series of confrontations with Lefty, culminating in a nail-biting showdown. Just as he thinks he can reclaim Darlin', she is taken by Lefty and handed over to the nefarious Napoleon Cross.

In a crucial moment, Yankee manages to escape from Cross's office before it’s too late. With newfound determination, he returns Darlin' to Babe Ruth just in time for the World Series, cherishing a pivotal lesson about talent and effort.

Babe Ruth offers profound advice to Yankee, emphasizing the importance of the batter over the bat. This encouragement fuels Yankee's confidence as he takes a swing with Screwie, striving to make his mark.

In a thrilling moment during the game, Yankee dodges the Cubs’ players and makes a spectacular leap over Lefty. This daring play results in him scoring a critical run for the Yankees, driving the team towards victory.

With Yankee's brilliant play, the Yankees rally to finish the game with an impressive lead. They go on to win the World Series, reclaiming dignity and pride, while Nick’s initiatives lead to Cross's arrest.

In the aftermath of Yankee's success, Stanley expresses heartfelt remorse for his past criticisms of Yankee. He acknowledges his son’s bravery and skill, mending their relationship and restoring family honor.

Yankee is honored as a player during a celebratory parade, basking in the joy of his accomplishments. As formerly powerful figures face disgrace, Yankee relishes a simple game of catch with Screwie, cherishing friendship and happiness.