What is the American League?
The American League is one of two Major League Baseball (MLB) leagues. It is composed of fifteen teams split into three divisions, the East, Central, and West. The American League has been in existence since 1903 and is known for its high-scoring and fast-paced games.
History of the American League
The American League was founded in 1901 as a rival to the National League. The American League was a more progressive league, allowing the use of a designated hitter, while the National League was a more traditional league, requiring pitchers to bat.
The American League has been in existence since 1903 and is known for its high-scoring and fast-paced games. The American League has adopted many of the same policies as the National League, such as the use of the designated hitter, interleague play, and the Wild Card system.
Teams in the American League
The American League is composed of fifteen teams split into three divisions, the East, Central, and West.
American League East
- Boston Red Sox
- New York Yankees
- Tampa Bay Rays
- Toronto Blue Jays
- Baltimore Orioles
American League Central
- Chicago White Sox
- Cleveland Indians
- Detroit Tigers
- Kansas City Royals
- Minnesota Twins
American League West
- Houston Astros
- Los Angeles Angels
- Oakland Athletics
- Seattle Mariners
- Texas Rangers
The American League Championship Series
The American League Championship Series (ALCS) is a seven-game series played between the two American League Division Series winners. The series is played in a 2–3–2 format, with the higher-seeded team hosting the first two and last two games. The winner of the series earns a spot in the World Series.
American League MVP and Cy Young Award
The American League MVP and Cy Young Award are the two most prestigious awards given to players in Major League Baseball. The MVP is presented annually to the most valuable player in the American League, as voted on by members of the Baseball Writers’ Association of America. The Cy Young Award is presented annually to the best pitcher in the American League, as voted on by members of the Baseball Writers’ Association of America.
American League All-Star Game
The American League All-Star Game is an annual exhibition game between the American League and the National League. It is held on the second Tuesday of July, and all players are selected by fan voting, with the starters being elected by the fans, and the pitchers and reserves being selected by the managers.
American League Pennant Winners
The American League pennant is awarded to the team that finishes with the best record in the American League at the end of the regular season. The pennant winner is then eligible to play in the World Series. The New York Yankees have won the most American League pennants, with 40.
American League Stadiums
The American League is home to some of the most iconic stadiums in baseball. Some of the most notable American League stadiums include Yankee Stadium in New York, Fenway Park in Boston, Wrigley Field in Chicago, and Angel Stadium in Anaheim.
Conclusion
The American League is one of two Major League Baseball leagues and is comprised of fifteen teams split into three divisions. It has been in existence since 1903 and is known for its high-scoring and fast-paced games. The American League is home to some of the most iconic stadiums in baseball, and the American League MVP and Cy Young Award are the two most prestigious awards given to players in Major League Baseball. The winner of the American League Championship Series earns a spot in the World Series.