MLB Network to launch new documentary series on January 13

Coming off the very enjoyable presentations of Derek Jeter: 2 Witness an Icon and The Third Team: All-Access 2014 World Series, MLB Network is set to launch a brand new series that will similarly mix documentary style programs and access-driven profiles.

MLB Network Presents will premiere Tuesday, Jan. 13 at 9 p,m.  and will run new episodes every Tuesday night leading to the 2015 season. Broadcasting legend Bob Costas will serve as its host. 

The first installment titled The Odd Couple: Bochy and Flannery promises to be a good one. The program will provide an in-depth look at the relationship between San Francisco Giants manager Bruce Bochy and his long-time friend, teammate and third-base coach Tim Flannery, who announced his retirement in November.

Throughout the hour-long program, Bochy and Flannery discuss the bond they have shared for nearly half of their lives despite coming from two different backgrounds. Bochy, the son of a U.S. Army Officer, and Flannery, a noted musician in addition to being an accomplished coach, began their relationship as teammates with the San Diego Padres in 1983 and continued to enjoy great success together on the Padres and Giants coaching staffs for 15 seasons, including three Giants’ World Championships in 2010, 2012 and 2014.

The episode will also provide glimpses of Bochy’s and Flannery’s lives away from baseball, including a fishing trip in San Diego with Bochy, Grateful Dead founding member Bob Weir sharing his thoughts on Flannery’s passion for music, and an interview with Bonnie and Erin Stow, the sisters of injured Giants fan Bryan Stow, explaining how Flannery has hosted concerts to raise money for Stow’s care.

Based on the preview and the description, the series premiere looks like a good investment of time for diehard baseball fans. Yes, even the ones who support teams left directly in San Francisco’s wake during its three recent championship seasons. Who knows, maybe you’ll find some peace of mind or even gain some new found respect for the men guiding the Giants ship.

Taking a step back from the episode specifically, I think most fans are in agreement they’d like to see more classic game broadcasts and classic programming in general on MLB Network. But there’s definitely room for programs that allow fans to connect with the players, managers, coaches and other personnel on a more personal level.

This is certainly a good step in that direction. We’ll definitely be looking forward to seeing what other subjects are featured in the coming weeks.

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Mark Townsend is a writer for Big League Stew on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter! Follow @Townie813