Alex J. Montero Talks The Kid Who Only Hit Homers – Exclusive Interview

The Kid Who Only Hit Homers, now steaming on Amazon Prime, is based on the books by Matt Christopher and follows Alex J. Montero as Sylvester “Syl” Coddmeyer III. Once Syl sees the spirit of Babe Ruth his baseball journey really begins. We had the opportunity to speak with Alex about his role and career.

BSCKids: Alex…Tell us about working on The Kid Who Only Hit Homers, what character did you play, and do you feel like you had anything in common with your character?

Alex J. Montero: I play Sylvester Coddmeyer III who eats, sleeps, and breathes baseball. The only problem is he wasn’t very good at it. While Syl is on the verge of quitting, the spirit of Babe Ruth appears and now he is able to unlock his potential and becomes the star player he always dreamt of being. It is based on the book of the same title written by Matt Christopher. I was really honored to have been chosen to play the part of Syl. I know how much bringing this book to life meant to so many people. Although I don’t play baseball, I do feel like I have something really special in common with my character. Both Syl and I are surrounded by amazing family and friends who are extremely supportive. There is a great scene in the movie where Syl’s dad played by Ryan Forrestal tells him “Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.” I can totally see my father saying something like this to me. It’s a great quote and a reminder applicable to any life circumstance.

Were there any funny things that happened behind the scenes while filming that you can tell us about?

The really amazing thing about our cast was that from the moment we met at the callback we all just clicked. We had so much chemistry together that behind the scenes was always a lot of fun. Oftentimes, even when we weren’t filming we would stay in character including the adult actors in the movie. We all became very close and have remained good friends.

Do you watch baseball and if so who is your favorite player? Are you any good at baseball yourself?

I don’t play baseball but I did receive some training for the role. It was actually pretty cool. Marti Sementelli is one of the best women baseball players and she trained the cast prior to the start of filming. She Is a member of the United States Women’s National Baseball Team and plays the role of Coach Brittney in the film. Prior to this role, I didn’t know much about baseball but I’ve learned a lot more since. Pete Alonso did make a cameo in the movie and his career is quite impressive. I would have to say he is my favorite player.

How did you prepare yourself for filming?

I prepared myself for filming by reading the script numerous times. Reading and rereading the script really helps me not only to get to know the layers of my character but also helps me learn my lines. In addition, everyone in the cast and crew worked long hard days. Personally, if I wasn’t shooting a scene I was on set getting tutored for school. I really enjoyed all the hard work but to prepare for each day, I had to make sure that I ate well and I went to bed early.

If you could guest star on any current running series on television or streaming which one would it be and why?

The Flash because he is my favorite DC Comic superhero. I’ve been watching the show since I was 9 years old and I’ve never missed an episode.

Who do you think has taught you the most in your career?

I have learned so much from Maria Banda Rodaz, the Executive Director of Area Stage Company. Area Stage Company is the theater conservatory in Miami, Florida that I have been attending since I was seven years old. From a very young age, I have always loved the discipline, work ethic, and professionalism she has taught me no matter how big or small the role I was seeking.

What is something people would be surprised to learn about you?

I don’t play any sports but I am very competitive. I do play the piano, skateboard, kneeboard, waterboard, scuba dive, and participate in archery. Most of the time when I’m doing any of the above my imagination runs wild and I am role playing a character in my head.

Why should we all be watching The Kid Who Only Hit Homers?

It’s an amazing movie, good for all ages, and filled with life lessons. Everyone is going to love it. I am really proud of being a part of it and honored I was able to bring this character to life.

Anything else you have coming up you can tell us about?

I have a couple of things in the works but I just can’t share right now.

Where can we find you on social media?

On Instagram @TheRealAlexJMontero

Looking forward to seeing what else Alex J. Montero has in store for us and make sure to check out The Kid Who Only Hit Homers, now steaming on Amazon Prime.