February 1 1962 The National League releases its first 162-game schedule
February 1 1962 The National League releases its first 162-game schedule
On February 1, 1962, the National League made a significant decision that had a lasting impact on the structure of the baseball season. The league released its first-ever 162-game schedule. This change marked an expansion of the regular season from the previous standard of 154 games.
The move from a 154-game schedule to a 162-game schedule was part of an expansion effort in Major League Baseball. The league expanded its schedule to accommodate the addition of two new teams: the New York Mets and the Houston Colt .45s (later renamed the Houston Astros). With the introduction of these expansion teams, the league aimed to generate increased interest, revenue, and competition.
The expansion to a 162-game season allowed for a more balanced schedule, providing each team with the opportunity to play a similar number of games against their opponents. It also contributed to a longer regular season, offering fans more opportunities to engage with the sport and providing teams with additional revenue streams.
This change aligned the National League with the American League, which had adopted the 162-game schedule in 1961. The decision to extend the season became a standard practice in Major League Baseball, and the 162-game schedule has remained in place for both leagues since then.