The "아메리칸 리그" (American League) is one of the two major leagues in professional baseball in the United States, the other being the National League. Established in 1901, it features 15 teams that compete for the championship title each season. The league is known for its designated hitter rule, allowing a player to bat in place of the pitcher. The American League is part of Major League Baseball (MLB) and has produced many legendary teams and players, including the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox. The league's championship series, known as the American League Championship Series (ALCS), determines which team advances to the World Series.