Posted By:
Tom L.Kenny,
You're probably right - doesn't sound like our arguments are that far apart. But still, the stats are the things that drive everything about baseball [HOF consideration, MVP voting, All Star appearances, bonuses, demotion to the minors, arbitration, contract negotiations, excitement over records or achievements (e.g. .400, 61/70/75, 7 no-hitters, 20/25/30 wins, 56 games, 2131, etc.), rotisserie leagues, 27 batters without reaching base, as well as comparison to other eras and other major leagues]. All of that necessitates having fairly complete and accurate records - something significantly lacking from the National Association (pre National League) and Negro Leagues.
All of that is academic, I suppose, if the caliber of Negro League play was not major league level (which I guess is definitely up for debate).
Tom