Baseball executive (1864–1931) who served as the founder and first president of the American League. He was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1937. TLS signed “B. B. Johnson,” one page, 8.5 x 11, American League Professional Baseball Clubs letterhead, April 15, 1915. Letter to T. L. Hutson, owner of the Yankees. In part: “I made an agreement with Vice President Brooks, of the Western Union…which is entirely satisfactory to the American League. The contract, however, has not been signed. This will probably be executed when I go to New York in the latter part of the month.” In very good condition, with intersecting mailing folds, one through a single letter of signature, and mild overall toning. Accompanied by a letter of authenticity from James Spence. In 1913 Western Union paid each team $17,000 per year over five years for the rights to broadcast the games. An interesting and early connection between media and baseball, a relationship that began back in the 1860s via telegraph. Pre-certified Steve Grad/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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