Caruthers, Pitcher, Brooklyn, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1888

This baseball card of Caruthers, a pitcher for Brooklyn, was created by Goodwin & Company as part of the Old Judge Cigarettes series. The bat, grasped firmly in Caruthers’ hands, is not merely a sporting implement; it is a symbol of power and potential, reminiscent of ancient clubs wielded by mythological heroes. Consider Hercules and his club or Thor with his hammer. In the modern era, the bat has evolved from a tool of survival to one of sport, yet it still carries the latent energy of aggression and defense. This card evokes primal instincts tied to protection and conquest. The collective memory of wielding a weapon, of facing an opponent, taps into a psychological space where viewers emotionally connect with the player's readiness for action. This image resonates far beyond the baseball field, engaging viewers on a subconscious level with themes of readiness, competition, and the timeless human drama of contest.