1922 St. Louis Baseball Star: Jack Tobin Portrait

This historical glass negative photograph, captured in 1922 by the Bain News Service, introduces us to John T. Jack Tobin, a notable figure in early 20th-century baseball, particularly associated with the St. Louis area. Tobin played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball (MLB) and was recognized for both his batting skill and solid defense. Over the course of his career, he achieved a .289 batting average and contributed significantly to his teams, including the St. Louis Cardinals and the Chicago White Sox.

The photograph serves as a valuable piece of baseball history, highlighting an era when the sport was evolving into a major American pastime. In the 1920s, the game was undergoing significant changes, with players like Tobin helping to shape its future by showcasing talent and athleticism on the field. Collectors, historians, and baseball fans alike can appreciate the context of this image, which documents not just an individual, but also a pivotal period in American sports.