This listing is for a super rare 1888 Old Judge photo proof featuring Jocko Flynn. The photo is marked "Flynn. P, O. W. A, Omaha" which translates to "Jocko Flynn, pitcher, Omaha Western Association", as well as "Copyright 1888 Goodwin & Co". It measures 4 1/8" x 6 1/8" inches and is in very good overall condition with typical horizontal cracking. We found some information online that claims this photo was possibly produced about a decade after the Old Judge cards. Please see the photos below and contact us with any questions before bidding. We have a low opening bid, so don't miss your chance to win!
John A. Flynn (1864-1907) played one major league season, in 1886 at the age of 22 for Cap Anson's Chicago White Stockings. He had a great year, with a 23-6 record and a 2.24 ERA. Flynn's performance helped Chicago to its second straight NL pennant, but the team lost the series to the St Louis Browns with Flynn out of action with a sore arm and fondness for liquor.
-Holds record for most wins by a pitcher who only played one season (23)
-Al Spalding had tried to police his players' "intemperate" habits all season and the NL even hired Pinkertons in every league city. Sadly, Flynn's arm gave in as he gave way to alcoholism after one brilliant year.
-An attempted comeback with Omaha in 1888 ended quickly; he was out of the game by age 25
-Flynn died at 42, eulogized by his hometown paper as "a wholesouled, generous fellow" with a "host of friends and admirers."