Joe Crotty played 69 games for the 1889 Sioux City Corn Huskers of the Western Association, the team with which he is pictured here. Though he only collected 53 hits, he stole 21 bases in his short time with the team. Crotty has six different poses in the N172 set. This example, one of just three of this pose graded by PSA, depicts the catcher standing at home plate with a bat in his hands, ready to strike the ball which is fast approaching.

The beauty of the era's equipment is on full display in this card's image, from the painted ring around the bat's barrel, to the cap worn by Crotty, to the fancy shoes, stirrups, and the thick belt. Centering is west and north on the canvas, though not at all distracting. Rounded corners and some edge chipping prevent this card from grading higher, but the printing has stood the test of time and remains dark and bold with great contrast. The text is easily legible, and the shadow from Crotty's body is very apparent on the studio's backdrop.