one reason given for the use of split seasons in the minors is that the purpose of these leagues is different than that of major league baseball. these leagues are primarily for the development of players, and as such players may move from level to level at any time during the season. a team with many very good players in the early part of the season may see them promoted, leaving lesser players remaining for the end. it also allows teams who played poorly in the first half to continue to play meaningful games later in the season.