In “Ferrell Takes the Field,” comedian Will Ferrell plays in five spring training games for 10 baseball teams in one day, aiming to raise funds for cancer research and honor baseball legend Bert Campaneris. This unique challenge is inspired by Ferrell’s college friend, Craig Pollard, whose baseball dreams were halted by cancer, leading him to start a scholarship for fellow survivors.

While the HBO special promises a touching tribute to baseball, some feel that Ferrell’s comedic approach diminishes the profound backstory, turning it into a mere comedic display instead of a heartfelt homage.