The Body Double Behind Costner’s Almost Perfect Game

In the annals of baseball history, few moments shine as brightly as the perfect game.

These rare feats captivate fans and players alike, etching themselves into the collective memory of the sport.

Yet, behind the glamour of a perfect game at Yankee Stadium lies an intriguing story that intertwines Hollywood magic with the grit of Major League Baseball.

This is the tale of Dave Eiland, a pitcher who found himself in an unexpected role during the filming of the 1999 classic For Love of the Game.

As the film’s protagonist, Billy Chapel, Kevin Costner delivered a compelling performance that resonated with audiences.

However, it was Eiland who threw the actual pitches seen on screen, transforming a scripted moment into a semblance of reality.

A Call to Action

It all began on a Halloween night in 1998 when Eiland was preparing his daughters for trick-or-treating.

An unexpected phone call from an assistant director changed the course of his week.

“Do you want to come up to New York?” the voice on the other end asked.

Without hesitation, Eiland replied, “Sure, why not?”

Little did he know that this spontaneous decision would lead to a unique experience in the world of film.

The Perfect Setting

Arriving in New York, Eiland found himself staying at the luxurious Waldorf-Astoria for three weeks.

He was now part of a production that would take him to the hallowed grounds of Yankee Stadium, a place where legends were born.

As he stepped onto the set, the reality of his role began to sink in.

Eiland was not just any pitcher; he was the man tasked with replicating the movements of a Hollywood star.

To prepare for this role, Eiland underwent a transformation.

His hair was trimmed to match Costner’s crewcut, and makeup was applied to mimic the actor’s skin tone.

Dressed in a road-gray Tigers uniform emblazoned with “CHAPEL 14,” Eiland felt the weight of the moment.

He was stepping into the shoes of a character that embodied the spirit of baseball.

The Art of Filmmaking

Filming scenes for For Love of the Game was not as straightforward as one might think.

Eiland quickly learned that movie-making operates on a different timeline than the game of baseball.

“Movies aren’t like baseball; they can film things in pieces and do retakes,” he explained.

The long hours on set—often stretching from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.—were grueling.

Eiland recalled, “The hardest part was the long days—12 to 15 hours.”

Despite the challenges, he embraced the experience, understanding that each pitch he threw contributed to the film’s narrative.

The Perfect Game and Hollywood

The film’s plot revolved around Chapel’s journey as he sought redemption on the mound.

Eiland’s role was crucial, especially in scenes that required a realistic portrayal of pitching.

He threw fastballs that would eventually be edited to match Costner’s acting.

One memorable scene involved Chapel spinning a baseball behind his back—a move suggested by Eiland himself.

“I told them pitchers sometimes spin the ball behind their back when waiting for the catcher’s sign,” he recalled, chuckling at the detail.

This small touch added authenticity to the film, showcasing Eiland’s understanding of the game.

Behind the Scenes

During breaks from filming, Eiland took the opportunity to immerse himself in the atmosphere of Yankee Stadium.

He often visited the weight room and mingled with the cast, including Costner, Kelly Preston, John C. Reilly, and J.K. Simmons.

These interactions provided a glimpse into the world of Hollywood, a stark contrast to the life of a professional athlete.

Despite the camaraderie and excitement, Eiland did not attend the film’s premiere in 1999.

At that time, he was still actively playing with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, balancing his commitments as a player and a budding actor.

When he finally saw the film months later, he was surprised by the focus on the romantic subplot between Costner and Preston.

“For me, it was mostly about the Yankee Stadium scenes,” he said, reflecting on his unique experience.

A Lasting Impact

Today, Dave Eiland serves as the head of baseball for Grand Central Sports Management, guiding athletes in their careers.

Though his time on set was brief, the experience left a lasting impact on him.

He still receives residual checks from the film, usually around $50 or $60, a small reminder of his role in a cinematic classic.

Eiland’s journey from the mound to the movie set illustrates the intersection of sports and film.

“It was a fun experience and a peek behind the curtain of movie-making,” he reflected.

Unlike the world of baseball, where mistakes can lead to lost games, the film industry allows for retakes and second chances.

“Now I understand why filming takes so long,” he concluded, appreciating the meticulous nature of the craft.

Conclusion

The story of Dave Eiland is a testament to the unexpected paths that life can take.

From the baseball diamond to the silver screen, his journey exemplifies the magic of storytelling in both sports and film.

As fans reminisce about the perfect games thrown at Yankee Stadium, they may not realize the hidden narratives that lie beneath the surface.

Eiland’s contribution to For Love of the Game serves as a reminder that behind every great performance is a team of individuals working tirelessly to bring a story to life.

In the end, it’s not just about the game; it’s about the moments that define us, both on and off the field.