Introduction
The Southern League was a minor league baseball league that operated in the south United States during the late 19th century. The Southern League is considered the one of the first “independent leagues” where it supported the development of Baseball in smaller markets that did not compete directly with the Major Leagues. The league played season 5 in 1889, 137 years ago.
The Southern League would play a modest role in the development of the Major Leagues by providing a venue for players to become better.
The season was a messy affair with teams disbanding during season play and the league folding before all games were played.
- Birmingham disbanded May 16, and was replaced by Mobile May 20.
- Memphis disbanded June 11.
- Atlanta disbanded June 11. Charleston transferred to Atlanta, but played home games at Macon.
- The league disbanded July 6.
The Southern League would go on hiatus for 2 years (1890 & 1891) and then return to play in 1892.
Classification
Season Length
April 20, 1889 to July 6, 1889
Season Champion
No champion as season not completed
# 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 league folding.
Future Features
