1923 Photo: John Heydler, National League President Portrait
The page from the 1923 Spalding's Official Base Ball Guide features a portrait of John A. Heydler, who is identified as the President, Secretary, and Treasurer of the National League of Professional Base Ball Clubs. Heydler's significant role in overseeing the operations of the National League during the early 20th century highlights his influence within professional baseball. The guide likely discusses the organizational aspects of the league as well as Heydler's contributions to its administration. During this era, the National League was one of the two major leagues in American baseball, alongside the American League. Heydler's leadership would have been pivotal during a period characterized by significant changes and developments in the sport, including the evolution of the World Series and challenges such as the Black Sox Scandal of 1919.