William Hulbert

American sports official

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July 23, 2026

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William Hulbert was a pivotal figure in the early professionalization of baseball in the United States. He served as the president of the National League of Professional Baseball Clubs from 1877 to 1882. During his tenure, Hulbert significantly enhanced baseball's reputation by expelling four players for dishonesty, a move that underscored a commitment to integrity within the sport. The National League, founded in 1876, is the oldest existing major-league professional baseball organization in the U.S.. Hulbert's leadership was instrumental in establishing the league's structure and upholding its standards during a critical formative period for professional baseball.1234

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Today in History—April 22
When the National League First “Played Ball”
…businessman and Chicago team owner William Hulbert and featuring some holdover teams from the NAPBBP, included:
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…businessman and Chicago team owner William Hulbert and featuring some holdover teams from the NAPBBP, included:
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baseball
Professional baseball
When William Hulbert, president of the league (1877–82), expelled four players for dishonesty, the reputation of baseball as an institution was significantly enhanced.
Read More
When William Hulbert, president of the league (1877–82), expelled four players for dishonesty, the reputation of baseball as an institution was significantly enhanced.
Read More