In an otherwise throw-away short bit in the ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH, we discover that Cardinals manager Tony La Russa has his own movie production company.

Coach Sunglasses at Night’s company, Red Bird Cinema, apparently has an agreement with Sugar Ray Leonard to make a movie based on the boxer’s life story (the manager has already made “3 Days In August,” based on his own life). I’ll be hoping for more good things from La Russa — everyone needs to diversify — and I think he’s siting on a gold mine of material.

Some suggestions for Tony’s next project:

• Grit: The story of a hardscrabble infielder who makes a major league team through spectacular effort despite his dwindling skills.

• Less Than Natural: A pitcher with a tough family background loses that “it” factor, turns wild, and hits rock bottom. He finds a new method to help turn himself into an outfielder, but his life is thrown up in the air when his secret is discovered upon a miraculous return to the majors.

• The Hot Corner: The tumultuous battle of wills between a coach and the big-name player at third base. A black comedy of injuries, playing time, and respect during a World Series run.

• The Past: A short film, as a former home run hitter sits down with his long-time coach for a heart-to-heart. A one-act showcase, discussing regrets and the good times.

• Behind the Plate: Slapstick comedy about three brothers and their hijinks while bouncing around the major leagues, hitting poorly yet bailing out pitching staffs.