I bet this is from Spring Training 1902 after thinking about it. I dont think they would have bothered to take a photo of him in Spring 1901 because he was a nobody and actually I think he was even traded to Cincinnati because the Giants did not want him and then they traded back for him for Amos Rusie. By Spring training 1902 he was quite a young phenom and would have been the subject of a photographer and since he was known as the "Collegian" maybe they told him to wear the sweater.

I also think it was probably for an "intersquad" game in which some wore the away uniform and some the home uniform, that is the ONLY explaination for the "pre 1903" stadium configuration with the 100% away uniforms he is wearing.

We will probably never know but I believe this to be the safest bet at this point. and I would feel very comfortable if it were mine (which I wish it was!) labeling it as 1902 or earlier with Spring Training 1902 as the most likely of all dates.

Rhys

So if the photo is from 1902 and 1909 is written on the back does that make this a TYPE 2 photo? ; )

Me too Rhys! ;)

The "1909" writing appears much more recent.someone was guessing.

I agree, I think northern spring training, inter team scrimmaging and practice, 1902 most likely, 1901 second most likely. Though I would love confirmation on home uniform hat/socks for fall 1900 and 1901 season.

Just thought I would pass this along while looking for information on the photo.

Chrisy Mathewson photos in high school and some later photos

found it! Went back down to the library. picture is spring training, April 1, 1902. before his second season. theyre all in a mish mash of home and away Giant hats and personal sweaters. cant really make out in the copy of the copy I am posting here, but the "B" for Bucknell is there and strong in the paper. Also Matty's holding a ball. Likely took this shot literally right before or after. The article reads that it was so cold practice was almost called off but the players wanted to workout in preparation for an exhibition game with Manhattan College the next day. so does before the start of his second season qualify as a rookie picture?
J

Outstanding find, JJ, and great job on your homework.

Not sure if there's a finer, earlier photo of Mathewson?

It took a while but its nice to see the conclusion we came up with in the end was right after all!

Thats what makes this hobby fun, congrats on your research!

Rhys

Thanks for your help. Jon

Awesome, Jon, congrats!!

Very cool photo and nice research. Good on ya.

1. Great research, guys!

2. It's too bad this image was never used on a baseball card. Such a cool pose!

Outstanding group effort all!

What a great photo! Love the comradery on this side of the forum.

Nice picture!