Answer:
D.
Step-by-step explanation:
Form is a synonym for type. The text is expounding on the fact that the rudimentary sport, albeit different has been played in this country since the time of the early settlers.
Eliminate A. The text refers to baseball and not a document.
Eliminate B. The text does not refer to creating anything, simply tracing back in time how the sport was documented as present in common use.
Eliminate C. The text is not attempting to establish the beginning of the sport.