The American League (AL) is one of the two major leagues in American professional baseball, with the other being the National League (NL). The American League was officially established in 1901, which makes it the younger of the two leagues.
One of the defining characteristics of the American League is the use of the designated hitter (DH) rule. This rule allows teams to have one player, known as the designated hitter, to bat in place of the pitcher. The designated hitter does not play on the field but can be replaced by another player if necessary.
The regular season of the American League typically starts in early April and ends in early October. The teams with the best record in each division, as well as two Wild Card teams, proceed to the postseason playoffs. The postseason is highlighted by the American League Championship Series (ALCS), with the winner being awarded the American League Pennant and advancing to the World Series to face the National League champion.
Historically, the American League has had some extremely successful and well-known teams. The New York Yankees, have won more World Series titles than any other team in Major League Baseball. Other successful teams include the Boston Red Sox and the Oakland Athletics.