William Harridge: President of the American League in Historic Portrait
The page from the 1938 Major League Baseball Facts and Figures publication features William Harridge, who served as the president of the American League. Harridge's tenure, which began in 1931, played a crucial role in the evolution and governance of Major League Baseball during a significant period leading up to World War II. Under his leadership, the American League navigated various challenges, including the competition with the National League and issues related to player contracts and team regulations. In the late 1930s, baseball was solidifying its status as America's pastime, and Harridge’s influence was pivotal in maintaining the league's structure and stability. His work also involved overseeing the relationships between teams and fostering the growth of individual franchises.