Central League (1897)

[2] While the exact league lineup was not finalized at the meeting,[2][3] it was resolved that the circuit was to consist of six teams who would pay a $500 deposit to guarantee they would play the entire season, and player salaries were capped at $900 per team.

[2] Officials met again on February 7 in Evansville to solidify the league's membership, and franchises were granted to clubs in Cairo, Illinois; Evansville, Terre Haute, and Washington, Indiana; Paducah, Kentucky; and Nashville, Tennessee.

[6] Severe financial problems throughout the circuit forced the league to disband on July 20.

As of July 19, the final day of play, the Evansville Brewers were in first place with a 41–30 (.577) record, making them the de facto league champions.

[7] This article related to a baseball league, competition or tournament is a stub.