16 Baseball Romance Novels That Will Leave You Craving for More Innings

      I don't see myself as particularly sporty, but with the first signs of spring, I suddenly develop a fondness for baseball. As I pen this, we're approaching May, and I've already attended a game this season. Baseball is a sport rich with community, rivalries, delicious food, refreshing beer, and athletic prowess. Baseball players represent a unique type of athlete; they're strong, focused, swift, and unafraid to get dirty while sliding into bases.

      Given baseball's timeless nature, coupled with the viral trends around TikToking and lip-syncing, especially from teams like The Savannah Bananas, it's no wonder that fictional baseball players serve as inspiration for a whole sub-genre of romance novels. These fictional athletes typically grapple with emotions after a poor performance or a career trade. However, behind their brooding, tough exteriors lie hearts of gold.

      Their love interests often claim to have steered clear of baseball players or overthink, assuming these athletes are out of their reach. All these characters often need is each other to realize their true potential and realign their lives. These novels are packed with romantic tension and steamy scenes that give “hitting a home run” its well-known double meaning. Here are 16 baseball-themed romance books to add to your reading list.

      **Katie Cotugno**

      If you’re still enjoying your Taylor & Travis era (who isn’t?), this is the baseball romance for you. Lacey Logan is a superstar whose life feels beyond her control. When she learns her boyfriend has two significant secrets—a drug problem and a pregnant girlfriend—her world shifts. While out with a friend discussing her troubles, she encounters former Rookie of the Year Jimmy Hodges at the bar. Though he isn’t what Lacey envisioned for herself, he might just be what she needs.

      **Tessa Bailey**

      Georgie Castle’s family runs a thriving home renovation business, yet she spends her time as a clown for children's birthday parties. She wants to prove she’s not merely a clown but a captivating adult woman. Simultaneously, ex-pro baseball player Travis Ford needs to show he isn’t a washed-up playboy. The pair decides to fake-date, hoping to fulfill their desires, only to realize that what they truly want is each other. This book kicks off a series but can be enjoyed independently.

      **KT Hoffman**

      As the first openly trans player in professional baseball, Gene has nearly achieved all his dreams until former teammate and current rival Luis Estrada is traded to his team. They struggle to communicate civilly off the field and fail to execute competent plays on it. As their relationship develops, the tension between them becomes electric, spilling beyond the stadium. Gene must navigate his quiet minor-league life alongside the major-league aspirations that Luis inspires.

      **Alicia Thompson**

      Daphne doesn’t follow baseball, but it beats sitting at home post-divorce. After too many drinks at the ballpark, she unintentionally heckles player Chris Kepler. Mortified, she messages him on social media to apologize, forgetting to mention she was the heckler. After Chris notices a DM from “Duckie,” he responds impulsively. As Daphne begins working with the team, she wonders how long she can keep up the charade, especially as their feelings deepen.

      **Hailey Gardiner**

      Brooks Alden has loved two things—baseball and his high school sweetheart, Nora Foster. Upon returning home for the off-season, Brooks has a second chance with now-divorced Nora. They agree to spend five Fridays creating new experiences, hoping to show Brooks that life has more to offer than baseball, while assisting Nora in coping with the challenges of divorce and single motherhood. This novel is part of a series, but stands alone well.

      **Rosalie Pease**

      This book has two versions—one spicy and the other a closed-door romance. The plot remains the same except for the intimate scenes, giving readers a choice based on their spice preference. Gale Frost has one rule: no dating baseball players. Finn Nixon has been rewriting the rulebook since joining the game. When a foul ball leads them to a literal collision, sparks ignite. For Finn, it's love at first sight, but Gale is unimpressed by his cheerful demeanor. Will she abandon her rule book for a chance at a passionate romance, or will Finn strike out?

      **Emma McCoy**

      Kelsey Colette is a young single mother juggling multiple jobs to support her baby. One evening, during a ride-share gig, she encounters Sam Drummon, a Major League baseball player. Sam, having just signed a lucrative contract, is struggling with a case of the yips, meaning his pitching isn’t working. Their first meeting doesn’t impress Kelsey, but fate offers them a second chance. Perhaps Kelsey is the good luck charm Sam has been seeking.

      **Caroline Richardson**

      Gretchen Harper has always been reliable and