Introduction
The Northwestern League was a minor league baseball league that operated in the central United States during the late 19th century. The Northwestern League is considered the first “minor league” as it had an agreement with the National League and American Association to honor player suspensions and reserve clauses. The league played season 3 in 1886, 140 years ago.
The Northwestern League returned from its hiatus in 1885 but with a smaller roster of teams as a number of previous its teams joined another minor leagues. The 1886 season was successfully completed.
Classification
Season Length
May 6, 1886 to September 30, 1886
Season Champion
Duluth Jayhawks
# of Teams
6
Season Standings
Season Playoffs
There were no championship playoffs as the top team with the most wins at end of season was declared league champion for the season but for this season no champion was declared due to teams folding.
Future Features
Last Updated on May 17, 2026 by Al Young