James H. Manning played 132 games for the Kansas City Cowboys of the American Association in 1889, stealing 58 bases. Although he only played one game at Shortstop that season, and only 35 total games over the course of his career at the position, he is listed as a Shortstop on this card. One of six different poses in the N172 issue, this one depicts him holding a ball with his right hand, high above his head, ready to throw.

Centering is slightly east on the canvas. Softly rounded corners and faint edge chipping particularly on the top and right side keep this card from grading even higher than it already has. Minor paper loss on the left edge is present, and while the image is slightly faded leaving it light, Manning and the text are still clearly visible and looking good.