AMERICAN LEAGUE Meaning and
Definition
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The American League refers to one of the two major professional baseball leagues in the United States, along with the National League. It was established in 1901, with its origins dating back to 1899 as the minor Western League. The league consists of 15 teams, divided into three divisions: East, Central, and West. The American League is governed by Major League Baseball (MLB), which is the highest level of professional baseball in North America.
The American League operates under a designated hitter (DH) rule, allowing teams to use a player solely for batting purposes instead of the pitcher. This rule differentiates the league from the National League, where pitchers must bat for themselves. The league features frequent interleague play, allowing teams from both leagues to compete against each other during the regular season.
The American League has a rich history and tradition in the sport, and its teams have produced some of the most iconic players and moments in baseball. It competes annually for the American League Championship Series (ALCS) title to determine which team represents the league in the World Series, the pinnacle of MLB.
Overall, the American League is an integral part of professional baseball in the United States, providing fans with thrilling competitions, storied franchises, and a unique set of rules that distinguish it from the National League.
Etymology of AMERICAN LEAGUE
The word "American League" originated from the term "American Baseball League", which was one of the first major professional baseball leagues in the United States. The league was established in 1900 as a competitor to the National League, which was already well-established. The name "American" was used to differentiate the league from its competitor and emphasize its American identity. Over time, the "American Baseball League" was shortened to the "American League", and it has remained the official name of the league since then.
