William Ashley "Billy" Sunday, Center Field, Pittsburgh, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1888

This black and white photograph from the "Old Judge" series of trading cards depicts William Ashley "Billy" Sunday, a center fielder for the Pittsburgh Alleghenys baseball team, in a batting stance. The photograph, produced by Goodwin & Company, exemplifies the emerging popularity of baseball cards in the late 19th century. The image, a snapshot of Sunday in action, captures the energy and excitement of the sport and highlights the growing trend of using trading cards as a means of promoting both the players and the product they were advertising, Old Judge Cigarettes. The card's simple design, typical of the era, contrasts with the dramatic pose of the athlete. The "Old Judge" series cards, like this one, are treasured pieces of American sports history and provide a glimpse into the early days of professional baseball.