Aired as a mid-season replacement early in 1979, with a brief 13-episode run. Was picked up for the new fall season, but cancelled after another thirteen episodes were produced. These re-aired the following summer (1980).
Some changes were made in adapting the premise for television. The ages of the kids were moved back slightly, the language was cleaned up (though Tanner continued to call the coach "Buttercrud"), alcoholic beverages all but disappeared, and Amanda changed from Buttermaker's would-be stepdaughter to his granddaughter. The essence of each character remained the same.
Featured a number of "Before They Were Stars" casting. Corey Feldman starred in films throughout the eighties; Meeno Peluce made several noted TV appearances during the early to mid eighties; Christoff St John continued as a successful child star, and subsequently went on to have a popular and pioneering career acting in daytime dramas. In addition, this was one of the earliest roles for Catherine Hicks, who would become best known for her role on the TV series 7th Heaven.
The ball cap and jacket worn by Buttermaker appear to be those of the Newark (NJ) Bears, a longtime Minor League Baseball team. Jack Warden was born in Newark.
The first season largely follows the course of the Bears season as depicted in the movie. The second season focused on the kids as schoolmates during the off season, and many of the baseball elements were largely abandoned.