The Western League is a professional baseball league that was established in 1885. It originally operated as a minor league but gained major league status in 1894. The league has undergone several changes in structure and name over the years, including a reformation in 1994, which led to its current status as a minor league. Today, the Western League primarily serves as a developmental platform for players aspiring to reach the major leagues. Teams in the league are often affiliated with major league clubs, providing young talent with opportunities to gain experience and showcase their skills in a competitive environment.