Five states are home to a pair of Major League Baseball franchises. These states represent major population centers and historically significant baseball markets. For example, California hosts the Los Angeles Dodgers and Angels, San Francisco Giants and Oakland Athletics, while New York is represented by the Yankees and Mets. The other states with two teams are Illinois (Cubs and White Sox), Missouri (Cardinals and Royals), and Texas (Rangers and Astros).
The geographic distribution of multiple teams within a single state reflects both the evolution of professional baseball and the dense populations that can support two clubs. This concentration creates intense local rivalries, driving fan engagement and contributing significantly to the sport’s economic impact within those states. Furthermore, having two teams in a state often strengthens the overall baseball culture, fostering youth participation and generating media interest.