Treatment Title: A Passion for Pleibol: “The Road to the Classic.”
Logline:
It's about Baseball, the national pastime of the Dominican Republic, and how they are determined to display their passion for winning the 2026 World Baseball Classic competition after coming up short during the previous two (2017, 2023) tournaments.
Act 1: The Beginning — Passion, Roots, and the Drive to Win
Purpose:
Introduce Nelson Cruz as the main character, exploring his passion for Baseball, his family, his community, and his love for his country. Establish the cultural significance of Baseball in the Dominican Republic.
Hook:
Nelson Cruz, go ahead three run homer to cap off a miraculous comeback against team USA; propelled them to a win against archrival Puerto Rico and sweep the tournament, becoming the first undefeated team in the WBC’s brief history. This iconic moment draws viewers into the story, highlighting the Dominican team's potential and passion.
Exposition:
Provide background on the Dominican baseball culture:
Players often come from small, impoverished towns, struggling to pursue their dreams amidst economic hardships. The history of oppression under a dictatorship fostered a collective spirit, with Baseball serving as a unifying force. Fans create a carnaval atmosphere during games — horns, singing, drums, and waving flags — displaying their passion.
Catalytic Event/Call to Action:
Despite their reputation as a baseball powerhouse the fact that their sole win came in 2013 the Dominican Republic is eager to leave no doubt as to who the real kings of baseball are.
Act 2: The Middle — Training, Personalities, and Community Spirit
Purpose:
Depict the team's evolving efforts, highlighting the players' varied personalities, the relentless winter training, and the communal support that fuels their passion.
Narrative Development:
The conflict intensifies as the team recognizes their past shortcomings and commits to change. They focus on detailed winter training, working hard to fix their previous failures. Nelson Cruz exemplified this new determination as a player and now in his role as General Manager. The team's preparation involves rigorous drills, strategic planning, and fostering a collective drive to succeed.
Community and Personal Stories:
Different personalities each bring their unique spirit to practice. Families and communities rally behind them, creating an environment where love for the game flourishes in local baseball parks. These stories showcase how Baseball is woven into the fabric of everyday life, reinforcing their collective passion.
Rising Excitement:
As the 2026 WBC approaches, the team sacrifices their bodies and time with loved ones, driven by the hope of winning again. The anticipation builds, with interviews and behind-the-scenes footage showing their dedication.
Act 3: The Climax and Resolution — The Road to Redemption
Purpose:
Build up to the climax, where all efforts and struggles culminate in a decisive moment. Show the team's readiness and their unwavering desire to win.
Climax:
On-camera interviews with players reflect on past tournaments and their intense preparations for the 2026 WBC. The team discusses strategies, leadership decisions, and the importance of this victory for their country.
Resolution:
As the coaching staff and key players observe and deliberate on lineups and roles, viewers understand how the Dominican team is poised to redeem themselves. Their collective effort symbolizes more than just a game — it's about national pride, cultural identity, and their relentless passion for Baseball.
Overall Objective:
Document Nelson Cruz's day-to-day role as General Manager, navigating the team preparations and focusing on the emotional and cultural significance of the pursuit to win in 2026. Through intimate interviews, action footage, and community insights, the story captures the Dominican Republic's unwavering passion for Baseball and their hope for victory.
© 2025 a joint effort of Angel Ruby Vasquez, Haffe Aurelio Acosta, Kevin Manuel Castillo for CACIKE FILMWORKS INC. All Rights Reserved