1915-1920 Vintage Baseball Catcher in Action

This photograph features Scanlan, a catcher in early 20th-century baseball, likely taken between 1915 and 1920. It highlights an era when baseball was solidifying its place as America’s pastime. The photograph was produced by the Bain News Service, known for documenting significant moments and figures in American life. Catchers like Scanlan played a critical role on the field, managing pitching strategies and calling plays while also being responsible for defending home plate.

The use of glass negative technology in this image was common at the time, allowing for sharp detail and contrast. These negatives were often used by news services to reproduce images in newspapers and magazines, making the work of players like Scanlan part of the public consciousness. Understanding this evolution in photography not only informs us about the technical advances of the time but also about how media shaped public perception of sports and athletes.