John Thomas "Tug" Arundel, Catcher, Indianapolis, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1887

This 1887 cabinet card by Goodwin & Co. depicts John Thomas "Tug" Arundel, a catcher for the Indianapolis team in the American Association. Part of the popular "Old Judge" series of baseball cards, these cards were distributed as premiums in packs of Old Judge Cigarettes. The photo, featuring Arundel in his baseball uniform, is a great example of early baseball cards from the late 19th century. The card, now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, provides a glimpse into the early days of baseball. The image, despite its small size, captures Arundel's athletic pose, highlighting the popular sport and the rise of baseball cards as collectible items.