Fred Graham was working in the MGM sound department and also playing baseball semi-professionally in his off-time. He was hired to tutor star Robert Young in baseball techniques. He also was hired to double Nat Pendleton in his scenes as a catcher, thereby beginning a nearly 40-year career as an actor and stuntman.
Filmed at L.A.'s Wrigley Field and the old Sportsman's Park in St. Louis. Several ballplayers appear, including the Cardinals' real center fielder Ernie Orsatti, who is shot "by the camera" as he crosses the plate.
Franchot Tone initially was cast in the role of "Larry" but was replaced by Robert Young prior to the start of production.
(ar around 50 mins) There is a scene at a hot dog stand; one of the hot dog vendors is Walter Brennan.
The St. Louis Cardinals actually would win the National League pennant and World Series a few weeks after the picture was released.