Early captains had more power and responsibility. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, captains were often player-managers who made decisions about lineup, strategy, and even player discipline.
The manager's role became more focused as baseball became more professional. As the game became more complex, managers began to specialize in different areas, such as pitching, hitting, and defense.
Having a captain is now optional. Major League Baseball teams do not have to have a captain. In recent years, only a few teams have had captains, such as the New York Yankees, Kansas City Royals, and Pittsburgh Pirates.
There are pros and cons to having a captain. A captain can be a strong leader who keeps the team together and represents the team to the media