Netflix to Release New Documentary: This Day in Braves History – John Smoltz’s 2,000th Strikeout

Netflix to Release New Documentary: This Day in Braves History – John Smoltz’s 2,000th Strikeout

ATLANTA – Netflix is stepping up to the plate with a brand-new sports documentary chronicling a defining moment in Atlanta Braves history. The streaming giant announced today the upcoming release of This Day in Braves History: John Smoltz’s 2,000th Career Strikeout, a feature-length film that revisits one of the franchise’s most iconic pitching milestones.

The documentary will premiere globally on June 15, commemorating the anniversary of Smoltz’s achievement, which took place on that day in 2001.

A Defining Moment in Braves and Baseball History

On June 15, 2001, Braves legend John Smoltz etched his name into the history books by recording his 2,000th career strikeout. Known for his fiery competitiveness and devastating slider, Smoltz achieved the milestone during a dominant relief appearance after transitioning from a Hall of Fame-caliber starter to a dominant closer.

The film will feature never-before-seen footage, player interviews, and new commentary from Smoltz himself, who reflects on the moment in his own words. Teammates including Chipper Jones, Greg Maddux, and Tom Glavine also appear in the film, offering insight into Smoltz’s legacy and his unmatched versatility on the mound.

A Netflix Original Sports Documentary

Produced in collaboration with Major League Baseball and the Atlanta Braves, the documentary is part of Netflix’s growing sports content slate, which includes recent hits like Quarterback and Untold.

“John Smoltz’s 2,000th strikeout wasn’t just another number,” said director Casey Willard. “It symbolized a new chapter for a pitcher who had already reinvented himself—and it happened in front of one of the most passionate fan bases in baseball.”

Netflix says the film will appeal to both hardcore Braves fans and a broader sports audience, with high-quality storytelling, vintage highlights, and dramatic recreations of Smoltz’s transition from starter to closer following Tommy John surgery.

Reactions and Legacy

Smoltz, a Hall of Famer inducted in 2015, remains the only pitcher in MLB history with over 200 wins and 150 saves. His 2,000th strikeout was more than a personal milestone—it was a testament to his adaptability and fierce determination.

Reacting to the announcement, Smoltz said in a statement, “That strikeout meant a lot to me—not because of the number, but because of what it represented. After surgery, after doubts, to reach that moment in front of Braves fans was unforgettable. I’m excited for a new generation to see what that day meant.”

Fans on social media quickly shared excitement over the documentary. One post read: “Smoltz on Netflix? Instant classic. Can’t wait to relive one of the greatest to ever do it!”

When and Where to Watch

Title: This Day in Braves History: John Smoltz’s 2,000th Career Strikeout
Platform: Netflix
Release Date: June 15, 2025
Runtime: 92 minutes

With baseball’s storytelling era in full swing, this documentary promises to be a powerful tribute to a Braves icon—and a reminder of the timeless thrill of the strikeout.