Why did games between rival baseball clubs attract larger crowds in the 1860s?

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Barry Bonds of the San Francisco Giants swings his bat after hitting his record-breaking 756th home run, with the catcher, umpire, and a cheering crowd behind him at AT&T Park. — History of baseball Giants legend Barry Bonds hitting his record-setting 756th career home run, August 7, 2007.

In the 1860s, games between rival baseball clubs attracted larger crowds because these matches generated intense competition and brought prestige to the winning teams. As the sport transitioned from a social activity among club members to a commercial enterprise, clubs recognized that interclub games and tournaments were effective at drawing spectators.12

This shift toward external competition was further fueled by the construction of enclosed fields with stands, where admission was charged. The resulting rivalries enthralled the public, even as they invited the influence of gamblers and led to the professionalization of the sport, as clubs faced increasing pressure to field high-quality teams to secure victories and acclaim.12