Sports leagues are composed of many teams located in different places and with different owners. Therefore, given the variety of interests that may emerge across a league, the question arises as to how the league can ensure consistency in its branding and policies. One way that sports leagues in the United States have addressed this issue is by appointing a commissioner. This week’s lesson will focus upon the governance structure of the professional sports leagues in the United States, with a specific emphasis upon the power of the commissioner and legal issues surrounding that power.
Discussion A: Antitrust Law
The MLB was granted an exemption from antitrust law in 1922. Given what you know about the goals of antitrust law, do you believe that the MLB should continue to be exempt from antitrust law? Why or why not?
