The American League (AL) is one of the two major leagues in professional baseball, the other being the National League. Founded in 1901, the AL features 15 teams, including famous franchises like the New York Yankees and the Boston Red Sox. The league is known for its designated hitter rule, which allows a player to bat in place of the pitcher, making games more exciting and increasing scoring opportunities. Each season, the teams compete for a chance to reach the World Series, where the AL champion faces the National League champion. The American League has a rich history and has produced many legendary players, such as Babe Ruth and Ted Williams, who have left a lasting impact on the sport.