National Brotherhood of Base Ball Players

American trade union

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July 1, 2026

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The National Brotherhood of Base Ball Players was an early player-led organization formed in 1885 by members of the New York Giants. Led by John Montgomery Ward, a player with a law degree, the Brotherhood aimed to protect players' interests. It initially operated as a secret society, growing rapidly before going public in 1886 to protest a $2,000 salary cap imposed by the National League. When negotiations with owners failed, the Brotherhood established the Players League in 1890, though it was short-lived. This organization represents an early effort by professional baseball players to organize and advocate for better working conditions and compensation, challenging the control owners held over the sport.12

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…New York Giants formed the National Brotherhood of Base Ball Players, a benevolent and protective association. Under the leadership of John Montgomery Ward, who had a law degree and was a player for the Giants, the Brotherhood grew rapidly as a secret organization. It went public in 1886 to challenge…
Read More
…New York Giants formed the National Brotherhood of Base Ball Players, a benevolent and protective association. Under the leadership of John Montgomery Ward, who had a law degree and was a player for the Giants, the Brotherhood grew rapidly as a secret organization. It went public in 1886 to challenge…
Read More