PROFESSIONAL BASEBALL

Organized baseball during the Golden Age was marked by enthusiasm, experimentation, and the rapid growth of the sport. As baseball gained popularity across America, it quickly became a favorite pastime in the bustling cities and towns surrounding the Great Lakes.

The American League, established in 1901, featured several teams from the region, including the Chicago White Sox, Detroit Tigers, and Cleveland Indians.

Players like Ty Cobb (Detroit Tigers), "Shoeless" Joe Jackson (Chicago White Sox), and Nap Lajoie (Cleveland Indians) became household names and helped elevate the level of play.

Several iconic ballparks were constructed in the Great Lakes region during this time.

TIGER STADIUM - DETROIT

Tiger Stadium, also known as Navin Field and Briggs Stadium opened in 1912 as the home field for the Detroit Tigers.

Tiger Stadium was known for its distinctive architecture, including a double-decked grandstand and an intimate, old-school feel. The park was located in the Corktown neighborhood of Detroit.

Many legendary players graced the field at Tiger Stadium, and it was the site of many historic moments in baseball history.

WRIGLEY FIELD - CHIGAGO

Wrigley Field, originally known as Weeghman Park and later Cubs Park, opened in 1914 and was the home of the Chicago Whales of the Federal League.

After the Federal League folded, the Chicago Cubs moved into the ballpark in 1916, and it became known as Cubs Park and eventually Wrigley Field.

Wrigley Field is famous for its ivy-covered outfield walls, iconic marquee at the entrance, and historic significance as one of the oldest ballparks in MLB. It remains the beloved home of the Chicago Cubs.

LEAGUE PARK - CLEVELAND

League Park was one of the earliest major league baseball parks in the Great Lakes region. It opened in 1891 as the home field for the Cleveland Spiders of the National League.

The park hosted many historic baseball moments, including Cy Young's 500th career win in 1910. It was also the site of the first-ever World Series game in 1920, where the Cleveland Indians defeated the Brooklyn Dodgers.

COMISKEY PARK - CHICAGO

Comiskey Park was the home of the Chicago White Sox and opened in 1910.

Comiskey Park was known for its distinctive design, including its expansive outfield and unique architecture. It was one of the first stadiums to have a fully illuminated scoreboard.

The park hosted many memorable events, including the 1917 World Series and the 1933 All-Star Game.