The War That Changed Baseball Forever

How World War II reshaped America’s pastime and lifted a nation’s spirit

Step into 25 remarkable true stories of baseball during WWII—when players became soldiers, courage was tested, fans cheered for hope, women took the field, and the game looked different than ever before. From stars who answered the call of duty to unsung heroes whose feats have rarely been told, these gripping stories of tragedy and triumph reveal how baseball helped a nation endure war—and was changed forever.

The POW League—Travel to the German POW camp where American servicemen received baseball equipment secretly packed with radio parts and maps for a daring underground escape.

The Nuremberg Diamond—Find out how servicemen transformed a former Nazi rally stadium in Nuremberg into the site of an unforgettable 1945 World Series.

Jackie Robinson Fights for Change—Discover how Jackie Robinson’s fight for victory against fascism abroad and racism at home accelerated the integration of Major League Baseball.

The 15-Year-Old Major Leaguer—Meet Joe Nuxhall, who made his Major League debut at age 15 as the wartime draft forever altered the careers of rising prospects and some of the game’s greatest stars.

Yogi Berra at D-Day—Before becoming a Yankees legend, Yogi Berra came under enemy fire aboard a Navy rocket boat during the D-Day invasion.