A.C. Weyhing, Pitcher, Philadelphia Athletics, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1888

Here we see A.C. Weyhing, a pitcher for the Philadelphia Athletics, captured by Goodwin & Company around 1888 for the Old Judge Cigarettes series. His poised stance, arm extended, embodies the anticipation of action, a motif that echoes across time. Consider the ancient Greek sculptures of disc throwers—the same coiled energy, the moment before release. Weyhing's gesture, though secular, taps into a primal understanding of potential and force. This action transcends the baseball diamond. It reminds me of the figure of Mars, captured at the height of his movement. The act of throwing, of projecting, is laden with cultural significance. From the casting of lots to the act of sowing seeds, there is a profound psychological connection to our hopes, our fears, and our destinies. Weyhing, caught in this timeless pose, becomes more than a baseball player; he is a vessel for our collective dreams.