The X-Files episode is widely regarded by fans and critics as a heartwarming, sentimental masterpiece and one of the best standalone episodes of the entire series . Written and directed by David Duchovny in his directorial debut, the story centers on Josh Exley, an alien who falls in love with baseball and plays in the Negro Leagues in 1940s New Mexico. Critical Consensus
: Outlets like the Vancouver Sun have labeled the story "heartbreaking," particularly the tragic but sweet relationship between the alien Exley and young Arthur Dales. [S6E19] The Unnatural
: Walsh played the older Arthur Dales (replacing Darrin McGavin, who fell ill during filming), a choice that received mixed reviews from some purists but was generally seen as a quirky, effective addition to the framing tale. Production Context The X-Files episode is widely regarded by fans
: The episode is noted for using its sci-fi premise as a metaphor for friendship, tolerance, and the racial barriers of the 1940s. : Walsh played the older Arthur Dales (replacing