Baseball Teams in Major League Baseball, commonly known as MLB, consists of two main divisions: the American and the National.
Both divisions have 15 teams each. Most of these teams, 29 to be exact, are based in the United States. However, there’s one exception: the Toronto Blue Jays, which is based in Toronto, Canada.
Together, these 30 teams compete for various titles, such as the League Division Title, League Pennants, and the prestigious World Series title.
The National League, the older of the two, began in 1876, while the American League started in 1901. In 1903, these two leagues decided to join forces, giving birth to Major League Baseball. This makes MLB the oldest professional league globally.
The American and National Baseball Leagues are organized into six specific areas. Here’s how they’re grouped:
- American League (AL):
- East Division: Orioles, Bay Rays, Blue Jays, Red Sox, Yankees
- Central Division: Twins, Tigers, Guardians, White Sox, Royals
- West Division: Astros, Rangers, Mariners, Angels, Athletics
- National League (NL):
- East Division: Braves, Phillies, Marlins, Mets, Nationals
- Central Division: Brewers, Cubs, Reds, Pirates, Cardinals
- West Division: Dodgers, Diamondbacks, Padres, Giants, Rockies
Arizona Diamondbacks Baseball Team
The Arizona Diamondbacks are a baseball team in the National League West Division. They were formed in 1995 and started playing in Major League Baseball (MLB) in 1998.
Their home games are held at Chase Field. Remarkably, the Diamondbacks are the quickest team to win a World Series in MLB.
They achieved this in 2001, only four years after they started, by beating the New York Yankees. In their relatively brief existence, they’ve also clinched five NL West titles, secured one National League pennant, and earned two Wild Card spots.
Phoenix, Arizona is where the team calls home. Randy Johnson and Roberto Alomar are among the team’s most notable players.
Atlanta Braves
The Atlanta Braves have a long history. They began in 1871 as the Boston Red Stockings. By 1953, they became the Milwaukee Braves and in 1966, they adopted their current name, the Atlanta Braves.
They’ve been a significant part of the National League East Division from 1194 onwards. The Braves play their games at Truist Park.
Over the years, they’ve clinched four World Series titles in 1914, 1957, 1995, and 2001. In addition, they’ve earned 18 NL pennants and 18 NL East Division championships.
Some of the most famous players in their history include Hank Aaron and Chipper Jones, both of whom have been honored in the Braves Hall of Fame. Among their current standout players are Ronald Acuna Jr., Matt Olson, and Bryce Elder.
Baltimore Orioles
The Baltimore Orioles are a baseball team with a rich history. They began in 1894 and settled in Baltimore in 1953. Since 1969, they’ve competed in the MLB’s American League East Division.
Their home games take place at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. This ballpark, found in downtown Baltimore, has been their base since its inauguration in 1992.
Over the years, the Orioles have achieved significant success. They’ve clinched the American League Pennant seven times and topped the American League East Division ten times. Additionally, they’ve been World Series champions in the years 1966, 1970, and 1983.
When talking about Orioles greats, Cal Ripkin Jr. and Jim Palmer stand out. Both have earned spots in the MLB Hall of Fame. Today, players like Aaron Hicks and Kyle Bradish shine bright for the Orioles.
Boston Red Sox
The Boston Red Sox is a baseball team from Boston. They started in 1901 and have been a part of the American League East Division since 1969.
Their main playing ground is Fenway Park, which has been their home since 1912. This stadium is among the oldest for MLB teams and can hold 37,755 fans.
Over 122 years, the Red Sox have secured 9 World Series championships, 14 American League Pennants, and 10 AL East Division titles. Their most recent World Series win was in 2018.
Some of the well-known players in the current team include Luis Urias, Justin Turner, and Brayan Bello. Historic players like Babe Ruth and Cy Young from the Red Sox are now in the MLB Hall of Fame.
Chicago White Sox
The Chicago White Sox are a baseball team from Chicago. They’re part of the American League Central Division. This team began in 1894 and joined the American League in 1901.
Since 1991, they’ve played their games at Guaranteed Rate Field, which can hold 40,615 people. The team has won the World Series three times: in 1906, 1917, and 2005. They’ve also earned 7 American League Pennants and 4 titles in the AL Central Division.
Eddie Collins and Tomas Frank are two legendary White Sox players who have a special place in the MLB Hall of Fame. Nowadays, fans of the team really like players like Andrew Vaughn, Dylan Cease, and Luis Robert Jr.
Chicago Cubs
The Chicago Cubs, first known as the White Stockings, were among the original members of the National League in 1876. They adopted the name Chicago Cubs in 1903.
They play their games at Wrigley Field, a stadium in the north part of Chicago that can hold 41,649 people. The team’s latest major achievement was winning the World Series in 2016.
They also won the same title back in 1907 and 1908. In addition, the team has secured 17 National League Pennants and six titles in the Central Division.
Some of the team’s iconic players who made it to the MLB Hall of Fame are Hack Wilson, Billy Williams, and Lee Smith. Among the present roster, players like Justin Steele, Miguel Amaya, and Christopher Morel have gained significant attention from fans.
Cincinnati Reds
The Cincinnati Reds baseball team is part of the National League Central Division and they call Cincinnati City their home. They started back in 1881 and became a part of the NL in 1890.
Since 2003, the Reds have played their games at the Great American Ballpark, a stadium that can hold 43,500 fans. Over the years, the Reds have secured 5 World Series titles, with the most recent win being in 1990. They’ve also clinched 9 NL Pennants and have been crowned champions of the NL Central Division 3 times.
A few baseball greats associated with the Reds include Johnny Bench, Barry Larkin, and Tony Pérez, all of whom have earned a spot in the National Hall of Fame. Among the current standout players for the Reds are Spencer Steer, Hunter Greene, and Jonathan India.
Cleveland Guardians
The Cleveland Guardians have been a part of the American League Central Division since 1994. This team has its roots back to 1894 and made Cleveland its home in 1900.
Since 1994, their main stadium is Progressive Field, which can seat 34,830 fans. The Guardians have secured World Series victories in 1920 and 1948.
In addition to these, they’ve clinched 11 AL Central Division titles and have earned 6 American League Pennants. However, it’s been 74 years since they last won the World Series, marking the longest wait among all MLB teams.
Notable figures in the Guardians’ Hall of Fame include Kenny Lofton, Early Wynn, and Bob Feller. From the current team lineup, players like Jose Ramirez and Tanner Bibee stand out.
Colorado Rockies
The Colorado Rockies is a baseball team in Denver that’s part of the National League West Division.
They began playing 30 years ago, starting in 1993. Since 1995, their games have been held at Coors Field, a stadium that can seat 46,897 fans.
In 2007, they secured their one and only NL pennant, but they’ve never clinched a World Series title. That same year, they reached the World Series final but faced defeat against the Boston Red Sox with a score of 4-0.
A standout moment for the Rockies was when Larry Walker became the first player from the team to get a spot in the Baseball Hall of Fame. Some of the team’s well-known players nowadays include Nolan Jones, Ryan McMahon, and Kyle Freeland.
Detroit Tigers
The Detroit Tigers, a renowned baseball team, came into existence in 1901 and have been based in Detroit ever since. They became part of the American League Central Division in 1998.
Throughout their history, the Tigers have achieved significant success. They’ve clinched the World Series Championships four times: in 1935, 1945, 1968, and 1984.
Moreover, they’ve secured 11 American League Pennants and four titles in the AL Central Division. Their most recent significant victory was the American League Central Division title they claimed in 2014.
Since the year 2000, the Tigers’ home ground has been Commercial Park, which can hold up to 40,120 spectators. Notable players currently representing the Detroit Tigers include Spencer Torkelson, Eduardo Rodriguez, and Reese Olson.
It’s also worth mentioning that two of the Tigers’ legendary players, Ty Cobb and Jack Morris, have been honored with inclusion in the National Hall of Fame.
Houston Astros
The Houston Astros joined the AL West Division in 2013. Before that, they were part of the MLB’s NL since they were founded in 1962.
Their home ground has been Minute Maid Park since the year 2000, which can hold up to 41,168 fans.
The Astros clinched the World Series title twice: once in 2017 and recently in 2022 against the Philadelphia Phillies. They’ve also won the AL Pennants four times and secured the AL West Division title on six occasions.
Two celebrated figures in the Astros’ history are Jeff Bagwell and Craig Biggio, both of whom are in the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Some of the team’s current standout players include Yordan Alvarez, Kyle Tucker, and Framber Valdez.
Kansas City Royals
The Kansas City Royals are a baseball team from Kansas City, Missouri. They started in 1969 and since 1994, they’ve been part of the American League Central Division.
In their history, they’ve won two big titles, the World Series, in 1985 and 2015. They’ve also won 4 AL Pennants and 1 division title. They first played at the Municipal Stadium for four years but shifted to Kauffman Stadium in 1973.
This stadium can hold up to 37,903 fans. Two of the team’s top players are George Bret and Joe Gordon, who are in the Hall of Fame. In 2023, some of the main players in the team are Bobby Witt Jr., Brady Singer, and Salvador Perez.
Los Angeles Angels
The Los Angeles Angels is a baseball team from Anaheim, California, part of the AL West Division in MLB. Founded in 1961, they were previously known as the California Angels and the Anaheim Angels until 2005.
Their home ground is the Angel Stadium, which can seat 43,250 fans. The team’s most notable achievement came in 2001 when they won the World Series Championship, beating the San Francisco Giants 4-3. Overall, they have clinched 1 AL pennant and have been crowned AL West Division champions 9 times.
Two players from the Angels, Vladimir Guerrero and Nolan Ryan, have been inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Currently, Shohei Ohtani and Reid Detmers are among the team’s standout players.
Los Angeles Dodgers
The Los Angeles Dodgers are a professional baseball team in Major League Baseball (MLB). They’re located in Los Angeles and play in the NL West Division. The team began in 1883 in Brooklyn, originally called the Brooklyn Bridegrooms.
Since 1962, their home games are at Dodger Stadium, which can hold up to 56,000 fans. This makes it the world’s biggest baseball stadium based on seating. Over the years, the Dodgers have claimed 7 World Series titles.
Their most recent win was in 2020. In their long history in MLB, they’ve also secured 24 NL Pennants and 21 West Division championships.
Some famous figures associated with the Dodgers include Hall of Famers Walter Alston and Sandy Koufax. Presently, notable players like Freddie Freeman, Mookie Betts, and Will Smith wear the Dodgers’ uniform.
Miami Marlins
The Miami Marlins are a baseball team, a part of the MLB in the NL East Division since 1993. Originally, they were known as the Florida Marlins until 2011.
From 2012 onward, their home games take place at LoanDepot Park, which can hold up to 36,742 fans. This venue is also commonly referred to as Marlins Park.
Compared to the other 29 MLB teams, the Marlins have had the fewest trips to the postseason, only making it in 1997, 2003, 2020, and 2023. But impressively, out of these four times, they clinched the World Series title twice.
A couple of notable Hall of Famers from the Marlins include Andre Dawson and Trevor Hoffman. As of now, some of the standout players in their team are Jorge Soler, Bryan De La Cruz, and Jesus Luzardo.
Milwaukee Brewers
The Milwaukee Brewers are a professional baseball team from Milwaukee. They play in the NL Central Division. The team started in 1969 and was first called the Seattle Pilots.
Since 2011, they’ve played their games at the American Family Field, which can hold 41,900 fans. They haven’t won the World Series or the NL Pennants yet. But, they have clinched the top spot in the NL Central Division four times.
Some of the team’s legendary players are Hank Aaron and Robin Yount. Nowadays, William Contreras and Corbin Burnes are among their well-known players.
Minnesota Twins
The Minnesota Twins began as the Washington Senators in 1901. They’ve been a part of Major League Baseball’s AL Central Division and shifted their base to Minneapolis in 1961.
They won the World Series in 1924, 1987, and 1991. They’ve also secured the AL Pennants title six times and the AL Central Division title nine times. Since 2010, the team has played at Target Field, which can seat 38,544 spectators.
Famous players in the Twins Hall of Fame include Goose Goslin, Jim Kaat, and Tony Oliva. In the 2023 season, Carlos Correa, Max Kepler, and Pablo Lopez stood out as key players for the Twins.
New York Mets
The New York Mets are a baseball team from New York City and are part of the NL East Division. They were formed in 1962 and are sometimes referred to as the “Metropolitans.”
Since 2009, their home ground is Citi Field, which can hold up to 41,922 fans. In their history, they’ve reached the playoffs 10 times.
Of those times, they’ve won the World Series twice, in 1969 and 1986. They also have five NL Pennants and six NL East Division titles to their name. Notable players from the Mets include Tom Seaver and Mike Piazza, both of whom are in the Hall of Fame.
Currently, Pete Alonso and Max Scherzer are among the well-known players in the team.
New York Yankees
The New York Yankees is a baseball team that started in 1903, initially named the New York Highlanders. It wasn’t until 2013 that they got their current name, the New York Yankees.
This team is from the Bronx area of New York City, and they play their games at the Yankees Stadium. This stadium can hold up to 46,537 people and it first opened its doors in 2009. When we talk about achievements, the Yankees stand out.
They’ve clinched 27 World Series titles, 40 AL Pennants, and 20 AL East Division titles. Some of the greatest players to ever wear their jersey include Red Ruffing and Babe Ruth, who have both been honored in the Hall of Fame.
Currently, some of their well-known players are Aaron Judge and Gerrit Cole.
Oakland Athletics
The Oakland Athletics, often called the “A’s”, began as the Philadelphia Athletics in 1901. They relocated to Oakland in 1968, taking on their current name.
Their main stadium is the Oakland Coliseum, which can seat up to 46,847 spectators. Over the years, the A’s have had a successful run: they’ve clinched the World Series nine times, won the AL Pennants 15 times, and secured 17 West Division titles.
Since their foundation, they’ve been part of the MLB’s AL West Division. Some renowned players who are in the Athletics’ Hall of Fame include Home Run Baker and Rollie Fingers. Among the present players, Brent Rooker and JP Sears stand out as notable figures for the team.
Philadelphia Phillies
The Philadelphia Phillies are a baseball team that started in 1883. They’re a part of the MLB’s NL East Division and call Philadelphia their home.
Since 2004, the Phillies have hosted games at Citizens Bank Park, which can seat 42,901 people. This park is in the South Philadelphia Sports Complex.
The team had memorable moments in 1980 and 2008 when they won the World Series Championship. On top of that, they’ve secured 8 NL Pennants and claimed the East Division title 11 times.
Some of the greatest Phillies players, like Steve Carlton and Jim Bunning, are in the Hall of Fame. Presently, some of the team’s standout players include Trea Turner, J.T. Realmuto, and Kyle Schwarber.
Pittsburgh Pirates
The Pittsburgh Pirates are a baseball team that started in 1881 under the American Association. In 1887, they moved to the National League.
They’re part of the NL Central Division. Even though they’ve clinched 5 World Series championships and have 9 NL Pennants to their name, they haven’t secured a title in the NL Central Division during their 29 years there.
The team plays their home games at PNC ballpark, situated on Pittsburgh’s North Shore. This stadium can seat up to 38,747 fans.
Two standout figures in the team’s history are Max Carey and Ralph Kiner, both in the Pirates Hall of Fame. Presently, Carlos Santana and Mitch Keller are among the team’s well-known players.
San Francisco Giants
The San Francisco Giants are a baseball team in Major League Baseball, part of the NL West Division. Founded in 1883, they were originally called the New York Gothams before relocating to San Francisco.
Since the year 2000, the Giants’ home games are held at Oracle Park, situated in San Francisco’s SoMa district. The stadium can host up to 41,915 fans. Throughout their history, the Giants have clinched 8 World Series titles, 23 NL pennants, and 9 NL West Division crowns.
Notable players from the Giants include Barry Bonds and John McGraw. Among the current team’s renowned pitchers are Logan Webb and Alex Cobb.
San Diego Padres
The San Diego Padres began in 1969 and are part of the NL West Division. They’re based in San Diego City and sometimes go by the nickname “Slam Diego Padres.”
Since 2004, their main stadium is Petco Park, which sits in Downtown San Diego, California. The park can hold up to 40,209 people. In their 54 years of playing in the MLB, the Padres have never clinched the World Series title.
They stand as the sole California-based team without a World Series win. However, they have managed to secure the NL pennants twice and have clinched the NL West Division title five times.
Two notable players, Jake Peavy and Tony Gwynn, have been honored in the San Diego Padres Hall of Fame. As for their current lineup, Xander Bogaerts, Juan Soto, and Feranando Tatis Jr. are among the standout players.
Seattle Mariners
The Seattle Mariners, often referred to as the M’s, was established in 1977. They are part of the AL West Division and are based in Seattle.
Since 1999, the team has played its home games at T-Mobile Park, which can seat up to 47,929 fans. This stadium is situated at the end of Interstate 90.
While the team hasn’t secured any World Series or AL Pennants, they’ve achieved 3 West Division titles. Notable players from the Mariners’ history include Ken Griffey Jr. and Edgar Martínez. Presently, well-known players on their roster are Julio Rodriguez and Luis Castillo.
St. Louis Cardinals
The St. Louis Cardinals are a professional baseball team in MLB. They’ve been part of the NL Central Division since 1994, but they started way back in 1882 in the American Association.
When it comes to success, only the Yankees are ahead of the Cardinals. The Cardinals have won 11 World Series titles. They’ve also earned 19 NL Pennants and taken home 12 NL Central Division crowns.
Their games are played at Busch Stadium in St. Louis, Missouri. This stadium can hold up to 44,383 fans. Some big names associated with the Cardinals include Tony La Rusa and Stan Musial, both Hall of Famers. Presently, players like Willson Contreras and Miles Mikolas are part of the team.
Tampa Bay Rays
The Tampa Bay Rays are a newer baseball team in the MLB, having started in 1998. They represent the Tampa Bay area and are part of the American League East Division in MLB.
They’ve called Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida, their home since 1999. This stadium can seat up to 45,369 fans.
Even though the Rays have yet to clinch a World Series win, they did make it to the final round in 2008 and 2020.
Unfortunately, they were defeated by the Philadelphia Phillies and then the Los Angeles Dodgers. In their journey, they’ve secured 2 American League Pennants and have come out on top in the AL East Division 4 times.
Some notable figures in the Rays’ Hall of Fame are Don Zimmer and Carl Crawford. As of now, players like Zach Eflin, Tyler Glasnow, and Isaac Paredes are part of the team.
Texas Rangers
The Texas Rangers became part of the AL in 1961. Since 1972, they’ve been in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
They’ve been competing in the AL West Division from that same year, 1972. Even though they’ve been in the running, the World Series title has eluded them.
They came close in 2010 and 2011 but were defeated by the San Francisco Giants and the St. Louis Cardinals. On the bright side, they’ve secured 2 AL Pennants and clinched the AL West Division title 7 times.
Their home games are played at Globe Life Field, which can seat up to 40,300 fans. When we talk about the Texas Rangers’ legends, names like Nolan Ryan, Michael Young, and Ian Kinsler come up. Presently, players like Dane Dunning and Marcus Semien represent the team in the MLB.
Toronto Blue Jays
The Toronto Blue Jays, founded in 1977, represent Toronto in the American League East Division. They are unique as they’re the only Major League Baseball team outside of the U.S.
Their home ground is the Rogers Centre, situated in the heart of Toronto. This stadium can host up to 41,500 spectators. The team’s notable achievements include securing the World Series title in 1992 and 1993. Additionally, they have claimed 6 AL East Division titles and have been awarded 2 AL Pennants.
In the past, players like Roy Halladay and Jackie Robinson have been standout figures for the Blue Jays. Presently, the team boasts renowned players such as Bo Bichette, Chris Bassitt, and Kevin Gausman.
Washington Nationals
The Washington Nationals baseball team was founded in 1969 and originally played in the NL East Division as the Montreal Expos. It wasn’t until 2005 that they adopted the name Washington Nationals.
Since 2008, they’ve played their home games at Nationals Park. This stadium, which sits at 1500 South Capitol Street SE in Washington D.C., can hold up to 41,339 fans. The Nationals have an impressive record, having secured a World Series win in 2019 and clinching the NL East Division title five times.
Over the years, the team has seen several significant players. Notable figures include Gray Careter, Ted Lerner, and Frank Robinson. Currently, Lane Thomas and Patrick Corbin are key members of the team roster.