1896 – Western League president Ban Johnson asserts that “the Western League has passed the stage where it should be considered a minor league – it is a first-class organization, and should have the consideration that such an organization warrants.” Four years later Johnson will act upon this belief, taking the first steps toward moving the WL – renamed the American League in 1900 – to major league status.

On February 29, 1896 — 1896 – Western League president Ban Johnson asserts that “the Western League has passed the stage where it should be considered a minor league – it is a first-class organization, and should have the consideration that such an organization warrants.” Four years later Johnson will act upon this belief, taking the first steps toward moving the WL – renamed the American League in 1900 – to major league status.

Source:
Baseball Reference February 29
SABR Games Project
National Pastime February 29
Hall of Fame
Replay The Game
Retro Sheet

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