View source for World Series

== Overview ==

The [[World Series]] is the annual championship series of Major League Baseball (MLB) in North America, contested since 1903 between the [[American League (AL)|American League]] champion team and the [[National League (NL)|National League]] champion team. The winner of the World Series championship is determined through a best-of-seven playoff, and the winning team is awarded the Commissioner's Trophy. As the series is played in October, during the fall season in North America, it is often referred to as the Fall Classic.

[[Image:Detail-53255.jpg|thumb|center|A baseball stadium filled with spectators during a World Series game, with the field brightly lit and players in action.|class=only_on_mobile]]
[[Image:Detail-53256.jpg|thumb|center|A baseball stadium filled with spectators during a World Series game, with the field brightly lit and players in action.|class=only_on_desktop]]

== History ==

The World Series has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. The first official World Series took place in 1903, between the Boston Americans (now the [[Boston Red Sox]]) and the Pittsburgh Pirates. The Boston Americans emerged victorious, winning five games to three. The series was not held in 1904 due to a dispute between the leagues, but it resumed in 1905 and has been held every year since, with the exception of 1994 when a players' strike led to its cancellation.

== Format ==

The World Series is a best-of-seven playoff. The team that wins four games first is declared the champion. The format has been consistent since 1922, with the exception of 1919 to 1921, when it was a best-of-nine series. The series uses a 2-3-2 format, meaning the team with home-field advantage hosts Games 1, 2, 6, and 7, while the other team hosts Games 3, 4, and 5.

== Significance ==

The World Series is considered the pinnacle of achievement in Major League Baseball. Winning the World Series is the ultimate goal for every team at the start of the season. The series has produced many memorable moments and has been a showcase for some of the game's greatest players.

== Records and Statistics ==

The [[New York Yankees]] hold the record for the most World Series championships, with 27 titles. The St. Louis Cardinals hold the National League record with 11 championships. The longest drought between World Series wins belongs to the Chicago Cubs, who waited 108 years between their 1908 and 2016 victories.

== See Also ==
* [[Major League Baseball]]
* [[American League]]
* [[National League]]
* [[Commissioner's Trophy]]

[[Category:Baseball]]
[[Category:Major League Baseball]]
[[Category:Sports championships]]