Baseball By The Letters

Billy Sample Samples Reunion 108

2012-02-10T11:37:00.000-06:00

Billy Knows eBay!

Former players often take well-marked off ramps on their retirement journeys. Coach. Broadcaster.

That’s what makes Billy Sample’s off-road adventure the stuff movies are made of. You see, the well-traveled announcer has written a baseball movie called Reunion 108. His credits, "Screenwriter, producer, co-director," may not fit onto one baseball card.

In a free-wheeling e-mail interview that gives a great glimpse into moviemaking and life after baseball, Sample wrote: “I was selected Most Versatile of my senior class in high school, I'm trying to live up to it.”

Here’s other hits from our e-conversation.

Q: Were you standing in an outfield one game thinking, "Soon as I retire, I'll write a movie about my baseball experiences"? When did this idea find you? How much time did you spend writing the screenplay?

A: My first game in the outfield was at old Arlington Stadium and I was overcome with fear because anything hit to me in left field would travel into the lights. That stadium and old Memorial Stadium in Baltimore were the worse and naturally I would lose a ball in each stadium that would costs the team a ballgame, and I also broke my wrist because of the large, low row of lights (in Arlington).

However, you asked about the script-screenplay-movie, and no, though I enjoy writing, I never thought about chronicling my baseball experiences while playing. I had written a 'book' about twenty three years ago, and though it was received well by an editor at one of the large publishing companies, when the script was sent upstairs, the conclusion was that I didn't have enough name recognition. I thought I could make up their investment in my hometown alone, but I didn't get the chance to present that rebuttal. About the screenplay, I had notes around the house for quite some time, so when it was time to put it together, it didn't take long.

Q: How much time during your playing and announcing career have you spent watching TV and movies? What's been your opinion of baseball films...seeing that REUNION 108 makes mention of BULL DURHAM in its synopsis?

A: Well, the screenplay Reunion 108 is an edgy, satirical, R-rated comedy with parody (a lot like me). It was nominated and took home top honors at the Hoboken Film Festival this past summer in the unproduced screenplay category.

My top baseball movies are: League of Their Own, Eight Men Out, Bull Durham, Pride of the Yankees and 61* ... I appreciate authenticity

Q: How many teammates and foes know about the movie to be? What's your answer for the former players curious about whether you'll be basing any of the movie around their own adventures on or off the field?

A: My former teammates, who know me at all, know that I'll take bigger secrets to the grave than anything they've done. I used the entire landscape of major and minor league ball as my mosaic, and if the stories aren't universal, then the specific ones are traceable to no one but me, and I'm not talking (well, aside from the screenplay:-) Word may have filtered out to a couple of former mates, but it would be just a few ... I most often thought of my Double-A Tulsa team when honing the logistics and makeup of the script, though very little, if any, involved their exploits.

Q: When will the movie be cast? What's the timeline for production, until us eager fans of yours get a look?

A: At the moment, our tentative schedule is to hold a casting session in New York later in February and start shooting in mid March ... we will show clips on the website as we move along in the shooting ... I conducted a casting session in my hometown of Salem, Virginia in December. The movie will be shot there and in the NYC area.
　
Q: One of the coolest parts of this story is that you're doing this movie with your son's involvement. Tell me about him, please!

A: My oldest son, Ian, who has spent the last five years in Japan playing football (yeah, right, who knew they played football in Japan?) is working on his third screenplay. He has penned a beautifully creative romantic comedy titled, Wingman, that we're hoping to package in the near future. Anyway, he helped me immensely in structuring my script into proper screenwriter's form and is co-producing with me. We have formed a production company, Carms Production, ostensibly to warehouse our scripts.

On his way from Chiba to Ireland to meet his mother for the mother-son vacation he had always wanted to share with her, he stopped in Switzerland to research William Tell at museums outside of Zurich for a reference in one of his scripts. No, he is not shooting an apple off my head.
　
If I make any significant money off Reunion 108, I hope to make this my next project. Mrs. Harmon just turned 98, after that, then the Reunion sequel ... fingers crossed.

[Sample's first grade teacher, now 98, was a student of George Washington Carver, offering a unique window to the Civil Rights movement.]

Q: How can collectors spread the word or help?

A: If anyone wants to own a non-management piece of the movie, I'll leave that avenue open (thousand dollar minimum). I'm trying to shoehorn an ambitious shooting schedule into a SAG ultra low budget (everything, including cast, crew and post production under two hundred thousand dollars) We are shooting on a red camera or red epic camera, which I had to have after watching more independent films over the past few years than I'd care to admit, and our co-director, cinematographer, James Suttles has grown up capturing the beauty of his home area in western North Carolina, near Asheville, thus, it should have the quality of a major motion picture on an independent film's budget.
　
Q: Movie or not, people still write for your autograph?

A: I'm twenty-six years from the last time I grounded to short, and yet, I still get about five to seven autograph requests per week sent to the house. It doesn't take long to know who is sincere with their comments and who is just reciting stats. I generally respond according to the theme of the request, and though not particularly prompt, I will almost always return the requests with a signature. Sometimes requests, especially if it's involved, may get lost in my dungeon for years. I found one once that was over seven years old, I sent it anyway, not my fault that the person moved within those seven years:-)

I considered signing autographs as part of the entertainment package, but would never admonish a player for not signing, generally people have their reasons, plus I think it'd be a tad boring if we all were alike:-) Oops, an addendum, I hate signing something for free and then see someone selling it on eBay, though I have to keep in mind that often at card shows, in which I'm getting paid, I might have signed extra cards/pictures to a promoter, who may in turn, try to recoup his or her costs by selling them online.

Q: Thank you. People read my blog are collecting fans. Yes, they like autographs. However, they'd gasp if you called them DEALERS. Your thoughts?

A: I think most are like this, but I recognize some of the 'dealers' and occasionally, I'll let them know that I know they are dealers.

A huge standing ovation to Gregg Kersey for suggesting this feature. Most of all, I'm grateful to one Billy Sample. I hope we'll see likenesses of him on the silver screen soon, as well as his witty insights on team broadcasts even sooner. The Mets called dibbies on him. Some team is bound to shine if Sample is mikeside in 2012.

Meanwhile, enjoy pre-movie coverage from Sample's hometown newspaper!

Seeking 10 More Billy Samples

2012-02-09T17:48:00.000-06:00

Past teammates Sample
and Darwin both have been
signing more than 90%
of requests, says
http://www.sportscollectors.net/

I'm excited about sharing Billy Sample's behind-the-scenes look at his baseball movie, Reunion 108, Friday.

Billy Sample is insightful, humble and FUNNY! Any team should dash to get him in their broadcast booth.
I know his movie will be the same.

I looked at the list of his first Texas teammates this week to choose who'd get my next 10 letters. My latest mailing includes questions to:

Dave Chalk
Steve Comer
Danny Darwin
Adrian Devine
Jerry Don Gleaton
Jim Kern
Jim Mason
Jon Matlack
Paul Mirabella
Mike Richardt

Coming Friday: From baseball to movies...Billy Sample's winning game plan.

Hold Your Own Press Conference

2012-02-08T09:41:00.000-06:00

Sure, you might not get the same
coverage Prince Fielder did. You never
know if you don't try!

Don't be a hobby victim.

If some bratty player sends you a rude response to your autograph request, go public.

The sports media is giving current and former players a free pass. "Journalists" have little idea about the autograph hobby. Many overwhelmed reporters will take a player's claims about being exploited on eBay seriously.

Tell your side of the story. Offer scans of the evidence.
Watch how fast a team rep responds to put out your bad news fires.

Take to the Internet. Somebody will listen.

Somebody like me!

Coming Friday: You'll laugh. You'll cry. You'll want popcorn. Hear from player-turned-screenwriter Billy Sample.

Move Over, Bull Durham! Outfielder Billy Sample Has Written His Own Baseball Movie

2012-02-07T16:09:00.000-06:00

Hello, Hollywood!

"Coming soon to a theater near you..."

Oops! Try this:

Coming Friday: Former Ranger/Brave/Yankee Billy Sample shares the inside story for Reunion 108, a baseball movie he's written and is producing. For more information, check out www.reunion108.com.

Worst Personalization Ever? It Could Happen To You, TTM Baseball Collectors!

2012-02-07T15:50:00.000-06:00

No real collector
deserves this!

This cautionary tale comes courtesy of Canadian collector Tony O'Neill.

Before you glance at the picture and say, "But I don't collect hockey," read this one closely and be warned.

Tony replied after seeing the recent opinion piece by Anonymous about overzealous security guards hounding collectors at charity events. Tony added:

"On a similar note, sometimes this happens with mail requests. That is the reason for this email. I want to share with you what happened to a collector on a forum I regularly visit. Although I don't know him personally, I have "talked" to him through the board and by email and have helped him out for photo requests for players. It is almost exclusively hockey requests, but as you realize, it's the same as requesting any athlete's autograph.

This collector genuinely loves his hobby, he makes his own custom photos with the team logo, and also collects multi-signed items like team photos, photos with more than one player featured etc. Recently he sent a request to a player on one of the minor league hockey teams. He sent two photos and received them back. The player, being Russian I assume, must have some preconceived ideas about TTM collectors. Or maybe the other players were giving him warnings about eBay dealers, I don't know.

Is Baseball Next?

Regardless, as you can see from the scans from this collector, the photos were ruined. The collector was so mad and upset, he ended up throwing them in the garbage, but not before scanning them first luckily.

On the advice of other forum members we urged him to contact the team. He did and this was the response:

Hi _____

I am extremely sorry this happened. Nail (Yakupov, the player) takes his fan mail home and then just brings it back sealed ready to send out.

I have addressed this with his representative. I will make sure we get something sent back out to you.

Mark Glavin
Assistant General Manager

So hopefully this will work out for him, but it's this stigma that we are all in it for the pittance we could get on eBay, really makes it disheartening sometimes. But the good thing is, for every bad apple there is a Bob Friend, Virgil Trucks, and in hockey Johnny Bower and Henri Richard who enjoy their mail and will throw in a few "extras."

I'm grateful for Tony's input. Realize this radical responder was just a minor leaguer, not an NHL star. Such stunts could occur at any level of pro baseball. Baseball players may copy these TTM temper tantrums soon. As Tony's helpful tale illustrates, be ready to contact a team front office (or even a league commissioner) to complain. Silence will serve no one.

Coming Wednesday: The ultimate reply to bullying behavior from abusive autograph signers.

Best Inscription Ever?

2012-02-06T13:16:00.000-06:00

Does this man look
like a comedian?

This smile comes courtesy of reader Kohei Nirengi.

Kohei lives in Japan. His return address didn't escape the notice of former Mariners pitcher Stan Thomas.

Thomas included a short note with his autograph:

Send sushi!

Kohei laughed, by the way.

Coming Tuesday: Worst inscription ever?

Calling Judge Judy: Are Baseball Autograph Collectors Guilty Until They're Proven Innocent?

2012-02-03T11:20:00.000-06:00

It's time for this blog's first-ever guest column.

By?

I was contacted by someone who wanted to remain anonymous. They didn't want their name in the hobby, or the Internet, to distract from their message.

I agreed with their feelings. Do you?

-----------

The next time you enter a charity celebrity event, be ready for the unfamiliar feeling of the attention being focused on your every move. While the cameras may go off as your favorite athlete enters the room, rest assured multiple people are scrutinizing your actions well before you approach with a pen in hand.

The war is on against the common autograph seeker in the eyes of event organizers and security personnel. Show up to the door of an event brandishing more than a program or a scorecard, and you are automatically labeled a dealer who is out to ruin their celebrity event by asking for, you guessed it, a signature!

Never mind that you paid a few hundred dollars to attend, or that the names of the athletes were prominently advertised to get you to purchase a ticket; the moment you pull out a card, photo, or ball during the cocktail hour, you have now become the target of the overzealous security guards looking to protect these players from the ever-so-harmful “Sharpie brigade.”

Ever since the collecting boom of the 1980s, aficionados have been increasingly cautious in preserving their memorabilia and the items they choose to get signed. Nowadays, asking for a signature on the sweet spot is no longer reserved for the hardcore collector; the average fan knows to ask for it, too. They carry neatly arranged books of trading cards and photos, looking to preserve their signatures on items of their choice.

A majority of the players are happy to oblige, knowing that one of the reasons people paid to be there was to get their signature. When informed, most of the players find it ridiculous that security would go out of their way to prevent patrons who purchased an expensive ticket to restrict them from bringing in some personal items to be signed. Most attendees want to get their one or two items signed, possibly pose for a picture, give their thanks, and move on.

Within the last few years, security has been increasingly confrontational, proudly remarking that they are keeping the dealers out of these events by not allowing patrons to bring in personal items. Expensive charity events that were once friendly to autograph collectors have been spoiled by the uniformed personnel trying to throw their weight around. Part of the reason the people pay to support the charity is to have the experience of getting their desired mementos signed by the advertised special guests.

One would be remiss if they didn’t acknowledge that these are private events and the organizers are free to make their own decisions on what is permissible. Often, security is making these decisions on their own whims because they don't like collectors. Buying a $300 ticket doesn’t guarantee you the right to turn it in to your own personal card show, but organizers and security are unfairly painting everyone with the same brush.

When an event advertises dozens of former professional athletes to attend, do they really think people are only going to try to get the program signed? Excited supporters have enjoyed building their collections over a number of years and when one pulls out a few common cards of a player from 20-30 years ago; people need to realize these cards were produced in massive quantities, held on to by multitudes and are readily available.

Are there dealers that attend these events, hoping to track down a signature of a Hall of Famer or a reclusive non-signer?Yes. Are people asking for nine cards to be signed at once at a public event bring attention to themselves? Yes. Is everyone that looks organized or eager to get a signature trying to sell their wares? No.

This aura of suspicion has filtered down to public in-store appearances, where the owners insist on one getting only the promotional item signed, again in their paranoia to ward off potential dealers that they think are going to profit mightily from a signed card one day. Do yourself a favor and check the completed sales price of a signed, in-person baseball card of a living player. I’m sure that $2.79 that one could possibly get from a signed card is going to look to autograph collecting as a full-time job.

These misrepresented collectors are the true baseball fans, the ones that love the game, the ones whose devotion is so strong, they spent their hard-earned money on the jerseys, baseball cards, photos and balls, all from which MLB and the MLBPA have profited. Don’t lump them in with the dealers because they collect; this is part of the culture of baseball that has developed long before Topps encouraged one to “Own the game.”
-------------
I second this emotion. You will face the "us versus them" mentality when you seek an in-person signature this year. I'm sure of it. Not from the signer, but from workers wanting to be more important than they are. Being able to demonize an innocent hobbyist is an easy route to looking dynamic. In the eyes of many, the best way to be a hero is to invent an enemy.

Sadly, we're getting lumped into the latter category.

Is it time for "I'm a collector, not a dealer!" T-shirts?

Nancy Reagan, Autograph Detective?

2012-02-02T16:03:00.000-06:00

What kind of autograph
collector would Nancy have been?

Just say no.

No, not's that it.

Former First Lady Nancy Reagan brought re-gifting out of the closet when she was broadsided by the 1991 tell-all biography from Kitty Kelley. Supposedly, the author claimed Nancy tossed a teddy bear into the White House "gift closet," only to present the plush animal to the same grandson who had been without his toy since the last visit.

Stay with me, please. There's baseball content here, I promise.

I've puzzled over why once-willing signers stop signing their fan mail. Of course, the top answer remains: "Everyone's a dealer who'll sell my valuable autograph on eBay, keeping all the riches for themselves."

Could it be the fear of re-gifting might play into it, too? I'm sure current and former players still think that each autograph is like a gift given. Do they believe you'll treat the signature the same way?

Double-check the next letter you send. Is it clear WHY you want their autograph, and why they should sign for YOU?

Coming Friday: Another Cardinals pitcher departs.

Former Philadelphia Phillies Pitcher Eric Junge Compliments My 'Cool Letter'

2012-02-01T16:13:00.000-06:00

Junge, in this 2003 photo,
toured the Johnson Space
Center with other Phillies.
Learn more at
http://www.jsc.nasa.gov/jscfeatures/articles/000000003.html

Remember when I looked up some minor leaguer senior citizens from the 2011 season?

Anyone still active in the minors past age 30 has to be in it for the love of the game.

I told that to pitcher Eric Junge, who worked the 2011 campaign with the AAA Salt Lake Bees.

I asked about his 2002 wins against the Pirates and Braves.

"Tom,

Cool letter.

I wish you all the best.

Sincerely,
Eric Junge"

Who knows? Maybe this Crash Davis-like character will recall more after he pitches his last inning. For now, it seems like he's zoned on one more spring training.

Meanwhile, don't miss the great profile of Junge's nomadic career in ESPN The Magazine.

Coming Thursday: First Lady Nancy Reagan helps me ponder non-signers.

Seeking Seattle Mariners, 1988-93

2012-01-31T16:12:00.000-06:00

I got Hanson once IP
during my Northwest stay.
Proud of his penmanship,
he checked every card
for gloss before trying
to sign!

I lived near Tacoma Washington for almost six years. During that time, I tried to be a Mariners fan.

They needed me. Games inside the Kingdome reminded me of childhood Nerf baseball showdowns in my family's basement. (Except snacks were cheaper at home, and the basement was slightly less crowded!)

I whipped out some old scorecards and found names of M's I witnessed on the carpet. I feel that grass is needed to say "field."

Here's the 10 Mariners I've sent letters to:

Rich Amaral
Shawn Barton
Mark Grant
Erik Hanson
Brian Holman
Dave Schmidt
Bill Swift
Matt Young
Clint Zavaras...

and announcer Rick Rizzs

Wish me luck!

Coming Wednesday: One of 2011's oldest minor leaguers responds.

Cardinal Mike Tyson Ducks My Questions

2012-01-30T16:28:00.000-06:00

Mike still loves that
majestic "M"

This week begins with good news and bad news.

Former St. Louis infielder Mike Tyson replied in just a week. He's maintained a pristine, sweeping autograph. I could read every letter of his name.

However, he ignored the questions in my letter -- which came back autographed, at least.

I behaved. I never asked him any questions about boxing!

Coming Tuesday: Tom's "10 Most Wanted List" Returns

Phillies Fan Debbie Ubele Brings Hobby Hope

2012-01-27T00:11:00.001-06:00

Debbie Ubele and Nelson Figueroa

What a big world we collect in. I'm hoping it gets even bigger!

Since my start contacting players in the early 1970s, I've seen this hobby undergo several transformations. One reason I began this blog in 2010 was my urge to reconnect with other fans and collectors.

During a recent stop at http://www.sportscollectors.net/, I did a double-take over one avatar photo. I squinted. "Debbie" had some good things to say about Brad Lidge's signing habits.

I confess. I was more interested in Debbie than in Brad Lidge's lengthy delays in answering fan mail.

Why? I've seen the blank looks of befuddlement from females at hobby shows. I've thought most of the faces belonged to wives and moms. (I've hoped more sisters playing Little League would dive into the autograph pool on their own.)

There's no law that says only males can collect baseball autographs. Here's a hobby success story, one worth showing all the female baseball fans you know. Meet Debbie Ubele!

Q: You began collecting autographs about age 10? Who was that first autograph (in person, I'm guessing)?

A: I started off collecting young, yes. I liked sending fan mail to athletes and celebs as a kid. It was always exciting- the prospect of coming home to a mailbox with a reply from someone famous. It became a summer hobby of sorts for me, writing lots of letters and waiting for the postman to come.

The first autograph I can remember receiving is a small 4x6 from my favorite Phillie growing up (and that of many girls in Philadelphia) Darren Daulton. At the time, this picture meant the world to me, and I still have the photo today. I've gotten the chance to meet Darren in more recent years, and it still brings me back to the 10 year old girl who couldn't miss a game in 1993. He's been incredibly nice, which makes the experiences that much better.

Q: When did you first collect TTM? How did you learn?

A: Funny- I can remember getting those teeny magazines (ala Tiger Beat) and they always had a section that listed addresses for celebs where you could send fan mail. I think that's where I first caught on to the hobby, although I really don't have any replies from back then. I never sent S.A.S.E.s at the time with my requests (they didn't tell me that!), but the sports teams were usually good about sending replies back with their own envelopes. My parents also bought me a book, The Address Book by Michael Levine, which helped me reach a lot of people back before the internet was readily accessible. You can still pick up copies of that book at Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/Address-Book-9th-ed/dp/B000H2N9Z4/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpt_9)- although I'm sure the addresses are quite outdated!

Q: How did your Dad help with your collecting? What did he collect?

My Dad, who is still collecting with me, collected autographed baseballs. He really worked at getting Hall of Famers, while I cared mostly about players I was actually able to watch. It worked out well, since I got to meet players like Richie Ashburn and Steve Carlton, while I was pushing him to buy baseballs by guys like Ken Griffey Jr and Frank Thomas before the prices got too out of hand. His prized possession is having baseballs signed by all but 2 of the members of the 500 Home Run Club (minus Babe Ruth and Mel Ott).

I'm always working to get baseballs for him of guys who should and could make it a few years beforehand, so not to deal with the crazy prices after. We also wind up with baseballs signed by guys who made it oh so close, but not quite there (ala Fred McGriff, Carlos Delgado).

Q: Have you asked questions in your letters? What's a typical letter like for you?

A: I used to ask questions quite often, although I must say I got tired of not getting answers to them. Sometimes I'll included questions, especially if I know that the person is more reliable with their fan mail.
A typical letter- I really try to be 100% honest in my letters. I think it's important to not stretch the truth all that much. For example, if I write to a player of a team other than the Phillies, I usually say outright that I'm a Phillies fan but also a fan of them personally. I usually talk about what brought me to write to them, why I'm a fan of theirs, etc. If I've seen them play in person, I'll usually mention whatever game I was at, etc. One thing I will say- I always handwrite! It makes everything more personal, and though email is great, there's still nothing better than getting a handwritten letter.

Q: Best reply ever (or example of something more than just an autograph)?

A: Tough Question. I've gotten some baseballs signed through the mail that are just superb (Mariano Rivera, Tony LaRussa, Johnny Damon, Brad Lidge). I will mention two requests that are rather personally special.
The first from Luke Montz, former Washington Nationals prospect who is now in the Marlins organization. I attended a Trenton Thunder game where he was playing with the Harrisburg Senators and came over to hand me a baseball by the bullpen (he was trying to annoy the kids nearby who were begging him for baseballs). We had a good laugh over it, and I mailed the ball to him to thank him and hope he would sign it. He got back to me via email (first time a player had done that for me !) to let me know he had received my letter and that the ball was on its way back to me. I wish I could say we kept in touch, but I've always followed his career since.

The other, a signed inscribed book from Chris Coste of the 2008 World Champion Phillies. I sent along his book, The 33 Year Old Rookie, for him to sign, as I had been missing all of his local book signings thanks to school. The inscription will always be a favorite of mine- "To Debbie, Take 2 aspirin and call me in the morning! Also, your penmanship is way too good to be a future doctor. - Chris Coste #27" I was so happy to know that he took the time to read my letter personally, and it gave everyone in my life a good laugh.

Q: Tell me about your avatar photo on SCN, please.

A: Surely- the picture is of me and Nelson Figueroa, during his stint with the Phillies in 2009. He has always been one of the nicest guys in baseball. When he was a Phillie, he always came out before games to sign autographs for the fans (ala Jamie Moyer style). I was at a game with a friend of mine, who offered to take the picture. I later mailed him a copy of the picture, which he signed for me with the inscription, "Keep on Smiling :) Nelson Figueroa". With that package he included a Phillies Phiten bracelet, which I still wear and had the opportunity to thank him at a later game. Just a great guy all around.

Q: When did you realize that autographs are a male-dominated hobby? How has it helped, or hindered, your collecting?

A: Oh I think it helps. It definitely helps. I think players like to see a few women in a crowd of men clamoring for their autograph. I will say, I've had so many men over the years do a double take when they see me at an autograph show or buying baseball cards. While I think the ratio of male to female fans in sports improves each and every year (particularly for MLB & the NFL), some people are still really surprised when a girl knows so much about sports. I think I've probably intimidated some guys with my knowledge and interest in sports. I've never been turned away from it though, either. Philadelphia is a pretty great town for female sports fans. We come in great numbers, and we tend to know a lot about our teams.

Q: How are the current Phillies as signers, in person or by mail?

Hahaha- this is the tricky question. I constantly read on SCN fans upset when they receive the "dreaded preprint" from a current Phillie because "they are too busy to sign." I honestly have had great luck with the Phils, although, I rarely send requests to players that I know are sending back preprint autographs. I'm really not against the preprint anyway. I think it's kinda nice that someone is handling the mail and returning items to fans with some form of reply, rather than having the items lost forever. Would it be nice if Roy Halladay signed some mail- sure! Does it make me like him less? No. Then again, Jayson Werth sent back a photo I mailed to him signed after the 2008 WS season- something I didn't expect. Brad Lidge autographed a baseball for me. Sometimes it's worth taking a shot. You just never know.

As for in-person, I can honestly say that Ryan Howard has always been really great to me in person. I've got a number of photos and cards signed by him. They are a tough team because they are a popular team, especially at home, but again I've had a lot of success (Utley, Hamels, Rollins, Madson, Ibanez, Victorino have all signed for me at one point before games/ during BP at Citizens Bank Park). They are tough, but well worth the effort in my opinion.

Q: Future goals for your collection?

I really want to purchase signed baseballs of Babe Ruth and Mel Ott to complete my Dad's 500 Home Run Club collection for him. That's a huge goal for me. I'm hoping that happens sooner than later, but we shall see.

Other goals- saving up for a Pujols ball as we speak! I'd love to get a chance to meet Josh Hamilton in person as well when he's in town or in Baltimore. I continue to work on my ever-growing Chase Utley collection as well :) 1 Jersey, 1 Bat, 6 autographed baseballs, numerous photos and signed cards so far!

Q: Advice to females who might want to start collecting autographs?

Do what you enjoy- no matter what! Don't let anyone, guy or gal, tell you otherwise. I think it can be an expensive hobby for anyone to get involved with, but a fun and rewarding one as well. I hope that one day I can share this hobby with my children, sons or daughters.

Thank you for a wonderful e-interview, Debbie. In the medical field and in the hobby, you're changing lives!

Phillies Voice Andy Musser Signs Off

2012-01-26T16:04:00.000-06:00

(Photo courtesy
Gregg Kersey)

For 26 seasons, Andy Musser spoke to -- and for -- Phillies fans. The former team announcer died Sunday at age 74.

I gasped when I looked up Musser on http://www.sportscollectors.net/. How many collectors had contacted Musser since his departure after the 2001 season?

Zero.

I wrote about Phillies super-fan Gregg Kersey in 2011, when I learned about his mega-signed Veterans Stadium ballpark seat. Sure enough, I'm grateful that Gregg had some great insights into this overlooked commentator:

"Andy was always in his quote 'Second Hot Dog' (role) to Harry Kalas, and I heard a clip of him on the radio today where he compared himself to a middle reliever that never had much as far as stats but always came through when you needed him. He was one of those distinct voices that are part of my childhood much like Harry and Richie Ashburn, but he never was much of a fan favorite but was never sure of as to why. He had very distinct voice that was hard to forget.

I wrote to him in care of his home, just went nosing around on the internet until I found what I thought could be the right address and mailed off the Phillies announcers card I had from when I was growing up. He signed and sent it back with the letter. It actually was mailed out on a Monday and was back on Wednesday so he holds my personal record with fastest reply LOL.

The reason I wrote to him was I didnt have any autographs of him and wanted him as part of my collection.

Also have another Phillies announcer story from this summer if you would like to hear it: I mailed to current announcer Tom McCarthy and it was picture of the 2008 announcers. It was signed only by Harry Kalas and I figured I would try to get it completed by all of them. So I mailed to Tom and that also came back with a great letter about Harry and signed by everybody.

The announcers are always forgotten but when they are gone you realize they are the voices of your
childhood, and you hit that point in life you wish you could have them back even for a brief moment."

I found this additional tribute to Musser worth sharing!

Coming Friday: Do you think baseball autograph collecting is an all-male domain? Think again!

Being Bob Kipper's Teammate

2012-01-25T09:54:00.000-06:00

Yep! He looks like a fellow collector!

I like the word "teammate." Someone who gives selflessly.

I never played with the major league pitcher. But I like to think I'm on the same team as Jeff Schultz.

The http://www.sportscollectors.net/ member posted that he received 4 out of 4 cards returned autographed by the South Carolina retiree in November, all in less than 10 days.

Jeff added the mention that he enclosed 46 extras for the one-time Pirate.

Jeff knew that Mr. Kipper was a collector. He knew about the 1997 house fire that wiped out the former player's collection. A sincere thank-you note came after the gift.

He didn't sell Bob Kipper the cards.
He didn't trade him extra cards.
He GAVE!

You don't have to enclose money or extra cards when you write to former players. You know what you hope to get from the letter. Before you mail, ask yourself what you're GIVING the person you've written.

Coming Thursday: Remembering Phillies broadcaster Andy Musser!

The Lessons of Howie Nunn

2012-01-24T17:14:00.000-06:00

Mr. Nunn's signing days may be over...

Today's insight comes courtesy of Ron Martin, devoted Reds fan and selfless collector.

On the http://www.sportscollectors.net/ message board, a collector told of sending Howie Nunn a 1962 Topps card and $10 cash. Another collector's letter was returned, autographed by Nunn, but no signed card was included.

Ron posted an update that Mr. Nunn had entered the hospital, facing uncertain prospects.

I contacted Ron, asking how he knew.

Being a student of Reds history who appreciated Jim Brosnan's book The Pennant Race, Ron has been trying to collect the autographs of the remaining 1961 pennant-winning Reds.

Since Ron lived less than an hour from Mr. Nunn's home, he wrote in hopes of an in-person meeting. He's met many of the 1961 Reds. Being a studied collector, Ron knew that Nunn has been an iffy signer for years. Therefore, he offered to pay for an autograph, even inviting him to a meal out.

Ron's two-page letter brought a phone call from Mrs. Nunn. She explained her husband's situation.

Instead of moaning over the near-miss, Ron's purchased a copy of Brosnan's book for Mrs. Nunn. He noted that he's mailing it to the author, in hopes that the personally-autographed book can be forwarded to her.

I wish the hobby had some type of special achievement award such collectors could receive. Ron is helping other hobbyists with the news (namely, that Mr. Nunn's grave health looks like he'll never be signing autographs again, and that any letters would be a wasted burden on his family).

Ron's all-out effort got a phone call from Mrs. Nunn. Remember, he sent a two-page letter to Mr. Nunn. A brief, generic form letter would have been ignored, prolonging the mystery of the missing card.

I'm most impressed that Ron has reached out to the Nunn family, despite his inability to get an autograph.

If you ever get a chance to thank the spouse of a former player, do it! Thoughtful wives remind retirees not to forget their fans who collect. Let's not forget these off-the-field stars. Without them, there might be lots fewer autographs.

Say It Isn't So, Joe! Did Tim McCarver Really Diss A Deployed Soldier in Afghanistan?

2012-01-23T16:26:00.000-06:00

He always looked
trustworthy...

I've always believed in Tim McCarver. He signed my autograph request back in the early 1970s.

I've sat patiently listening to him do games on FOX, ignoring his numerous naysayers.

However, I'm truly concerned about the former catcher. I wrote in 2011 about tough signers making the extra effort for Americans in our military.

Well, I guess McCarver missed that feature. An unsigned card returned in a serviceman's SASE was the icy response a letter to McCarver brought.

Anyone knows a military APO address. The letter told who was asking for the autograph.

Thank the man for his service, TM. Hall of Famer Whitey Ford did that just last week, never requesting the charitable donation he seeks per signature.

Are you really getting that much mail, Mr. McCarver? Someone opened that envelope with your name on it. Someone took the time to use the postage on the SASE to NOT honor this man's military sacrifice that he's making for all of us.

I've been watching McCarver explain baseball's inner workings for decades. I'd love to see him analyze this.

Dan Xeller's Baseball Photos Revisited

2012-01-21T14:43:00.000-06:00

True story.

I wrote a biography on Muhammad Ali for an educational publisher that came out in 2011. Translated: the book is in schools and libraries.

Well, I gave a copy to my sister-in-law. Her hubby's an Ali fan, too.

"I really liked the photos," she praised.

Uh, thanks, I think?

Fast forward. Someone just mentioned that they'd like to get BIGGER looks at Dan Xeller's great portraits of Ransom Jackson, Ty Cline and Norman Lumpkin. Check out http://www.danxeller.com/ for great looks at many more of his images.

Enjoy! And, to my sis-in-law, I admit that I didn't write any of these pictures, either!!!

(All photos courtesy of &
copyright Dan Xeller Photography)

'Handsome Ransom' Jackson, Ty Cline And More! Photographer Dan Xeller Honors Baseball History

2012-01-20T19:55:00.000-06:00

Ransom Jackson

(Dan Xeller photo)

There's nothing like the faces of former players. From day to day, they've been cast as heroes or villains. Their eyes tell all.

When I found out about photographer Dan Xeller, I had to know more. As a collector and fan, he's found a way to convert his TTM skills into a unique way to preserve baseball history. He was kind to share his fascinating story by e-mail.

Q: Tell us about your baseball project.

A: I have been a baseball fan since I was in diapers and was fortunate to have a family who were fans. My grandparents on both sides knew major leaguers and even considered some of them friends! After doing a bunch of research on ball-players from the 40's, 50's and 60's, I realized that there were many
forgotten stories. I also started heavily researching the Negro leagues and wanted to meet some of the
players and hear their stories. Many of these former players had a career in baseball and then walked
away from it, many times getting a "normal" job and closing that chapter of their life.

What I'm trying to achieve with my photographs is capturing something from the players' past and then marrying it with an interest, hobby, activity, etc... in the present. I started out thinking that I would self-publish a book of the portraits with some outtakes of the interviews but now it has grown into a potential documentary film down the road.

Q: When you met "Handsome Ransom" Jackson, what did you learn about his take on autograph collectors?

A: I was fortunate enough to spend an afternoon with Ransom Jackson of the 1956 Brooklyn Dodgers at
his home and speak at length with him about his past and present. Out of the blue, he mentioned to me that he had some scrapbooks filled with "interesting" and "bizarre" letters he has received over the years in the form of praise and autograph requests. He says he only keeps the really "weird" ones and invited me to look through some of the albums. I asked him if he found the TTM request intrusive and he said he was quite honored by it and was just happy to be remembered.

Toward the end of meeting, Ransom asked myself and my assistant if we wanted to pick out some cards and photos from his collection. We went up to his bedroom where he opened a drawer filled with photos, cards, clipping, etc.. from his earliest playing days to recent photofiles. We didn't want to be greedy so we each took an 8x10 in which my assistant exclaimed, "this means a lot as this is my first autograph!"

Q: What are your baseball autograph interests?

A: Allow me to get anecdotal here for a minute... I mentioned before that my family on both sides are
big fans of baseball. Well, my grandmother once chased Duke Snider down Flatbush Avenue for an
autograph after a Dodgers game. When I was 8 years old, my dad and I started to going to card shows
at the Polish Community Center in Albany, New York.

Duke Snider was scheduled to sign that day and we bought an autograph ticket. At my father's urging, when it was my turn with Duke, I told him the story of my grandma. Now, I don't know if he was just obliging and 8 year old or he actually remembered but Duke says "That was your grandma?????". That autograph has been a centerpiece to my collection to this day. My grandma also worked with Frank Viola's mom at the Nassau County Jail and she was able to get Frank to send me some autographs which I still have to this day.

I started collecting TTM in 2009 after an extremely long hiatus from card collecting. At first I would just send to whoever was signing but I have since pared down to trying to get every NY Yankee (and not expecting to complete), all Brooklyn Dodgers and as many Negro Leaguers as I can. From a photographer's standpoint, one of my most highly prized autographs is the 1952 Gus Zernial Topps card with the baseballs "attached" to the bat.

When starting my education in photography over 10 years ago, this was a card I admired as Photoshop had not been invented yet and there were many questions as to how Gus' photo was made. One card I would like to own one day (but it's a bit out of my price range) is the 1953 Bowman Color Pee Wee Reese card where he is suspended in air. The composition of the shot, use of artificial lighting and the chrome film makes for an amazing photograph.

Ty Cline
(Dan Xeller photo)

TTM really helped get me interested in this project as, when researching names and addresses, the stories started to come out. Plus, with the acquisition of cards to send out, you would get some neat stories off the back of them. For instance, I photographed Ty Cline (of the 1970 Cincy Reds) and saw that on the back of his 1969 Topps cards that his favorite hobby was photography!! I asked him if that quote had anything to do with his participation in my project and he said "no, it was because you were a nice young man on the phone and I wanted to help!"

Q: Are there other former players you'd like to photograph?

A: I have been fortunate to have photographed Ty Cline, Ransom Jackson and Norman Lumpkin (of the Atlanta Black Crackers). I currently have 3 more people wanting to participate and hope to receive more in my mailbox.

Being based in Charleston, SC, I have been limiting my players to the Georgia/South Carolina/North Carolina areas. I have started to branch out a little bit but since this is funded on my own dime, long distance travel at this time is a hardship. I welcome any and all contacts, hints, notes, favors, inside information, etc... and will return a favor.

Norman Lumpkin
(Dan Xeller Photo)

Q: These are stunning photos of Cline, Jackson and Lumpkin. How could collectors get copies for autographs?

If people are interested in purchasing a photo from me to get signed, they can contact me directly at
danxellerphotography@gmail.com.

Q: Future goals?

A: I would like to make it clear that this project is to shed some light on players of the past and their stories
and to get my name out as a photographer. I'm not in this to make any money and anything that I sell will have partial proceeds going directly to the player or to the Baseball Assistance Team. I hope this interview will get the word spread about my project and get people interested in the former players and their contributions.

Go, Dan, go! Anyone knowing a retired major leaguer or Negro Leaguer in North Carolina, South Carolina or Georgia? E-mail this fledgling historian. Help him out with a lead or introduction. I predict some great portraits and histories as a result.

Dan's lesson for us? You don't need Hall of Famers for great baseball stories. History remains in all who played our game. All we need to do is seek out the overlooked diamond storytellers NOW.

(All photos courtesy of and copyright Dan Xeller Photography, www.danxeller.com)

One More Cent Makes Sense For Letters

2012-01-19T17:01:00.000-06:00

While the price of everything is soaring, I'm not going to grumble over the one-cent stamp increase.

USPS employees always do their best for me.

In December, a substitute letter carrier apologized when I came to the door.

"I'm sorry I got your mail here later than usual," he began.

I waved off his kindness. He was on a strange, new route, yet only minutes behind.

"I went back because Debbie (the postal carrier from THREE Christmases earlier at my OLD address) found this," he continued.

The forwarding order was long expired. However, Debbie has never stopped looking out for us, seeing that every Christmas card found its target.

I recalled this happy episode as the possibility of moving again looms.

I've reviewed response times of many former players on http://www.sportscollectors.net/. Would I be so lucky again in getting misdirected mail?

To increase my chances, I've begun noting my parents' address on the upper left-hand corner of my SASE. That way, if a retiree takes years to respond and I'm not in this current location, the "unable to forward" order can go to a stable address.

Coming Friday: The amazing baseball photography of Dan Xeller.

Bill 'Spaceman' Lee Teaches Collectors

2012-01-18T09:57:00.000-06:00

Beware of such impish grins
when asking questions
by mail!

"Stealing your other card."

-- Bill 'Spaceman' Lee

In today's Jeopardy-like post, I'll quote the memorable report I found on a hobby website. Someone had asked the pitcher in a letter, "What was your biggest thrill?"

Beware of the overused questions. Some savvy signer might say, "Hey. I bet you just did a cut-and-paste from some how-to blog!"

However, here are some tips for asking a perfect question:

1. You can predict what almost anyone would choose for a "greatest thrill" career highlight. Even the greatest journalists ignore the "before" and "after" parts of the equation. How did the bench react AFTER your first-ever HR? how did the coaches react? Who congratulated you first? What did they say?

2. Never forget the feelings of a moment. What did they think? How did they feel?

3. Here's the most important tip: relate the question to YOU. Ask about a game you attended, saw on TV or listened to. Show you care about the question, not that you're just fishing for a hand-written reply of any sort.

Frustrated Collectors Forget Valentine's Day!

2012-01-17T21:42:00.000-06:00

Autograph collectors, have a heart!
Get yours at the zazzle website!

Are you overwhelmed by all the Valentine's Day cards in stores?

How many cards (if any) will you send? Not give, but send! One for your parents?

Don't worry, I'm not working for Hallmark. I just wanted the chance to illustrate how overwhelming fan mail might seem every week for the average retired baseball player.

I see the complaints yearly:

1. He switched (or kept) my good card for a poor condition common.
2. He used ballpoint when I wanted Sharpie (or vice versa).
3. He didn't get my personalization right.
4. He didn't add the inscription I asked for.

No, it's not fair, nor fun, to get such a letdown in your envelope. I don't think it's on purpose much of the time. In the past year, I've posted comments from Bobby Doerr, Carl Erskine and Virgil Trucks telling about getting quantities of mail DAILY.

If you're paying a fee for the autograph, then you're purchasing a product. See that you're getting your money's worth. However, the service of a free response doesn't come with a guarantee. Almost all the willing signers have great batting averages, giving collectors what they want. They get my admiration and thanks.

CSI Autograph Edition - Asking Questions?

2012-01-16T16:09:00.000-06:00

"But he didn't answer any questions..."

I've seen more than one collector respond this way. They worked to ask a thoughtful question, but just got an autograph in their reply. Pitcher Dick Woodson was a past example for me.

I'd call this mystery-solving "CCSI" -- Collector Crime Scene Investigation.

Most collectors think the former player didn't want to answer questions.

Or, he wasn't capable.

Last week, I speculated on cup-of-coffee players who consider their careers riddled with painful memories.

Here's two other scenarios:

1. The person who responded is too old for a lengthy reply, and considers having someone else take dictation to be wrong. CEOs do it all the time. Nevertheless, many a trustworthy former player wants to send only a completely-authentic response, all from his own hand.

2. The more controversial possibility?

The former player was never a star student. Even in retirement, he'd rather face a 100 m.p.h. fastball than try to write a detailed note with proper grammar and spelling.

I've never posted actual scans of my replies for this reason. I'm not here to showcase someone's misspellings. I'm grateful for substance over style.

The moral? Do your best, but don't beat yourself up over your specific question.

Coming Tuesday: Pondering more hobby mysteries.

Honoring Boston's Bill Monbouquette

2012-01-13T18:24:00.006-06:00

A half-century later, a huge heart exists behind that
intense glare. Learn how "Monbo" took a gift
from the hobby and paid it forward!

One of the joys of being a part of the http://www.sportscollectors.net/ community is witnessing the random acts of kindness from hobbyists.
Michael Einarsson leads that parade. First, he surprised Virgil Trucks. Bill Monbouquette came next. All with lots of help from like-minded collectors. Here's Michael's story:

Q: How long have you been collecting autographs? Do you have a specialty (teams, era, etc.)? How much of your collecting is TTM, versus in person?

A: I have been collecting autographs for about 20 years (since I was 10 yrs old). I believe that Mickey Morandini was my first TTM success right after he turned his unassisted triple play in 1992 vs the Pirates.

My only real specialty at this point is I am trying to complete an autographed set of 2008 UD Masterpieces. Not too bad so far, as I have 84 out of a possible 115 autographs in the set (5 deceased players were included in the set).

I do almost all of my collecting via TTM as I do not live near a MLB city. I do however live close to Cooperstown and only last year did I get involved in HOF weekend. Maybe this year I will get more involved in it-we'll see. I get a lot of my Masterpieces set needs done through consignments with guys on the SCN boards or through private signings.

Q: Was the collection for Virgil Trucks the first you did? What kind of responses did
you get from collectors, and Virgil?

A: Yes, the collection for Virgil Trucks was the first one I did. I got the idea from reading about how some guys on SportsGraphing had done a collection for Bobby Doerr and I said to myself "Why can't we on SCN do this?" Thus, it was born.

I got a lot of positive feedback from collectors who donated anything from just a few dollars to one donation of over $150! I told potential donors that I will even take the change they have leftover in their Paypal account that they might never use and take that as a donation-it all adds up. All together I had 24 people donate to Virgil as a 'Thank You' for all he has done as a TTM HOF'er and a Veteran who fought for our country.

Virgil was VERY gracious as he gave me a phone call (I include my phone number and email in my donation letters) when he got the check to tell me how thankful he was for it. We spoke for about 10 minutes about playing in his era and how he knew some of the towns around where I live. He used to do some barnstorming because they made so little money back then, that he had to do barnstorming to make ends meet at home.

He sent me a very nice ‘Thank You’ card and 20+ signed cards for me to give out to those who donated to him. I contacted everyone who donated and asked them if they wanted the signed card from him. I’d say about half of them accepted it. The rest were just happy to donate to Virgil and didn’t need anything in return.

Q: What kind of replies TTM had you received from Bill before you honored him?

A: I honestly have never written to Bill before we honored him. I certainly should have as I could use him on a Fenway Park photo I have, but I just haven’t gotten around to it.

Q: What do you say to a collector who says, "I'd rather send a thank you note, instead of bringing money into the equation?"

A: I would be more than happy to honor someone’s wishes anyway they want. If they want to send a thank you note, that is fine by me. All I am trying to convey to guys like Trucks or Monbouquette is a ‘Thank You’ and I have decided to do it via a monetary donation. These players never ask for anything in return so in my opinion, if we can collect a sum of money to give back to them for their decades of answering their fanmail, I think it’s a good way to show our appreciation.

Q: When's the next campaign start? What critierion are you using to choose another retiree? Who are some of the names in consideration?

A: I think I am going to get the next campaign started in Spring 2012. I am careful that I don’t want to go back to the proverbial “well” too often with the collectors I am in contact with on SCN. We did the Virgil Trucks one around July 4th 2011, and then Bill Monbouquette just before Christmas so I think I will put the call out around April 2012 for the next recipient to anticipate sending him a check around June 2012. I know collector’s money is tight so I don’t want to constantly be out there asking for donations from my fellow collectors.

The criterion I look for is someone who is a TTM Hall of Famer and who doesn’t seem to do paid appearances too often. Basically I’m looking for a player who responds to nearly all of his fan mail in a timely manner and asks for nothing in return. Trucks and Monbouquette are all prime examples of who I like to organize donations for.

Some names that have been kicked around for the next donation campaign have been Bobby Doerr, Carl Erskine, Dick Groat or George Altman. Nothing has been decided though yet."

Anyone wanting to assist Michael in his next hobby thank-you campaign for a signer (or to thank HIM for being such a great hobby ambassador), write him at einars90@hotmail.com.

************************

Bill Monbouquette keeps dazzling collectors. When presented with an $80 check from Michael and his cohorts, Bill added $20 and donated it all to Toys for Tots. He told of honoring his U.S. Marine son with the gift. Once a team player, always a team player!

Seeking Baseball's Might-Have-Beens

2012-01-12T17:13:00.000-06:00

Love the pic!
Love his hustle.
After 1999, I saw
stardom for Warren. Hmmm...

Getting autographs of superstars by mail is tough.

I believe that another tough category exists: the might-have-been.

Injury is often the explanation for a shortened career. Managerial conflict is another. If the boss doesn't believe in you, who do you get in the lineup? Or, these men simply became overshadowed in a rich farm system serving a perennial winner in the majors.

You can look these guys up. They had brief glories in the bigs, never getting the chance to extend one or two good seasons into a great career. Getting fan mail must be a bittersweet experience -- glad to be remembered, but sad to be reminded of what could have been. Are the memories too painful to reply to a letter? (Some names got disqualified immediately, due to their HORRIBLE unwillingness to sign for members of http://www.sportscollectors.net/, as indicated by attempts posted and monitored by SCN members.

I've found two "shooting stars," the first with one season of wonder, the second with just a game of glory.

Warren Morris

John Paciorek

Readers -- who else would you put on this list? Thanks for your help.

Coming Friday: Honoring Bill Monbouqette

Another vote for hand-written letters?

2012-01-11T17:59:00.000-06:00

In the heat of presidential primary season, a vote may have been cast for tradition.

I've enjoyed the epic story of Tigers minor leaguer Bobby Hoeft. His book and his Detroit Tigers quarterly newsletter would delight any fan.

One off-hand comment of his caught my eye. Bobby keeps creating "hard" copies of his newsletter, not just posting news online. I realize that he has dozens of former Tigers as subscribers. He mentioned that most aren't computer users.

"Oh yes -- regarding seniors with no computers...I speak for myself when I say it took me up to 2007 before I took them on...To some extent, just give a retired baseball star another pain in the ass...I admit it was only because of my intense typing etc that I was talked into it...but guys like Virgil Trucks, J.W. Porter, Frank Tanana and on and on view it with, "At my age why take on this new technology...I'm happy with my life just the way it is."

Bobby's comment sent me thinking. Kohei Nirengi mentioned about Japanese tradition favoring hand-written letters. I maintain that forcing any age person to study my handwriting is cruel and unusual punishment.

Nonetheless, are some elderly ex-players frowning at our computer printout letters, skeptical at how little personal effort went into the correspondence? Do these cyber-shy folk think our magic boxes have cranked out well-disguised, robotic form letters?

When possible, I add a hand-written P.S. That way, the potential signer knows I've tried...and that I've spared him the pain of a whole page of my scribbles!

Coming Thursday: Tom's "10 Most Wanted List" -- a Hot Stove League edition!

Writing to Japan's Baseball Stars

2012-01-10T13:43:00.000-06:00

The famed logo for Japanese baseball!

Let me say five words to anyone who believes that Japanese baseball has little connection to the Major Leagues:

Ichiro
Hideki Matsui
Yu Darvish

In November, I wrote about friend and collector Kohei Nirengi, collecting TTM autographs of past major leaguers while living in Japan.

Seeing the buzz that Darvish has generated in Texas, I wanted to know more about Japanese autographs. Kohei was kind to supply these insights...

Q: Some American MLB teams are encouraging all players not to sign fan mail. In some cases, like the RedSox, a form letter and pre-printed "autographed" photo will be all you get. For teams like the Pirates or Tigers, much of the roster will supply a price list. Send your item and a donation to the community charity.

You had mentioned that you received Bobby Scales by mail in care of his team in Japan (Ham Fighters?). Whether it is Americans playing in Japan, or current Japanese players, how well do most respond to fan mail? Or, in what ways might it be easier for a fan in Japan to collect current NPB players by mail?

A: Yeah, you're right, I sent my request to Bobby Scales by mail in care of his 2011 team here in Japan ( the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters ), then I got his signature. I've never recorded any dates of my requests via TTM, so, excuse me, I don't know a successful percentage correctly, my guessing would be 70% or so. TTM is getting popular in Japan year by year, but our interest in it began in this 21st century, I thought, so that here are still fewer fans collect autographs by mail than Americans do there, like you guessed.

Q: There will be more star Japanese players coming to America in coming seasons. From other collectors or your own experiences, had such stars as Ichiro, "Dice K" or Hideki Matsui signed by mail in Japan?

A: Yes, all my requests to the active Japanese ballplayers were sent in care of their each team. I've never seen anyone succeeded in getting neither Ichiro's autograph nor Matusi's as both were in NPB. However I've seen few collecters, who have their own websites or blogs about TTM, could get Matsui's autographed "baseball" by mail as he played for the Oakland A's in 2011 season. I have never tried to get anyone's signature on a baseball, though. As to Dice-K, I knew that Matsuzaka had responded his requests from the fans when he pitched for the Saitama Seibu Lions.

If you try to send the Japanese ballplayers, your handwritten letter is much better than typed one because of our Japan's traditional custom.

Q: Lastly, what's been examples of some of your fastest responses from America?

A: Took just 10 days, I remember my fastest response from your good old U.S. FYI, December is not good for TTM because it's the busiest time of year for our post offices as well as the USPS from Thanksgiving to Christmas, my American friend taught me that.

Thank you, Kohei. I hope your mailbox bulges with responses from both leagues in 2012.

Coming Wednesday: An insight about typed letters, from Mr. Tiger -- Bobby Hoeft!

Beyond Steve Sax: Paying For Autographs

2012-01-09T11:12:00.000-06:00

Chris Potter (left) and Steve Sax
(Photo courtesy of Chris Potter Sports)

Thanks to Nick Diunte for sharing a recent fine feature on his "happening" blog, http://www.baseballhappenings.net/. Nick is an all-star journalist, someone with a deep appreciation of baseball and all things collectible. A kindred spirit!

Nick wrote about Chris Potter, the new intermediary handling fan mail for Steve Sax. Potter's business has a website. Most encouraging is his motto: "The Collector's Friend."

In my original feature about Sax choosing to stop signing autographs by mail for free, I mentioned Potter's role only in passing. Potter is seeing that unsigned cards get returned with a price list. When some ex-players stop signing, they may trash all their mail.

As Nick points out, Potter's involvement can benefit needy retirees, such as 95-year-old Danny Litwhiler. This man, unlike Sax, never raked in millions during his career.

Last week, I mentioned that former Negro Leaguer Louis Clarizio Jr. would sign for pay. Using an autograph as a way to help someone in need can make sense, especially for someone with a one-year career who played mainly for the love of the game.

However, I can't help missing the GIFT aspect of the autograph, the service of signing. Add money, and the personal interaction disappears. It's like purchasing a loaf of bread at the supermarket. The humanity, the idea of one baker making a treat just for you, is replaced. The autograph is now an assembly-line product, something that anyone can own, not a reward for your captivating letter.

In fact, I can't help but feel sad for the letter writers who try to send memories to a former player like Sax. These days, your cash matters more than your words to many retirees.

Coming Tuesday: Collecting Japanese baseball autographs

White Negro Leaguer Louis "Gray Cat" Clarizio Salutes The Men Who Just Wanted To Play Ball

2012-01-06T00:11:00.007-06:00

(Photo courtesy of Kyle McNary. Check out
http://www.pitchblackbaseball.com/ for a great interview
with Clarizio. Kyle has written a fine book about
his friendship with Double Duty Radcliffe.)

Imagine your life feeling like a made-for-TV movie.

Louis Clarizio Jr. lived a baseball adventure that no fiction could match. In 1950, this Caucasian outfielder played for a Negro League team, the Chicago American Giants.

His humble letter provided a fascinating picture of the power of baseball.

First, I asked about his childhood. Clarizio replied:

"Growing up on the west side in Chicago in Little Italy, I was not exposed to many Black people. In elementary school there was only one. In high school, there were several."

Fast-forward to an instant baseball career!

"While playing on the team called the Chicago Roamers, I was invited to spring training to Paducah, Kentucky, a Phillies farm club.

My friend called and told me the Amour Stars needed ballplayers. I would play two games and week and one on Sunday. Most of the players were Black. Armour Stars were part of the Industrial League.

I worked at the stockyards in daytime and played ball three times a week.

That's when I started to noticed that Blacks were not treated fair."

Admirably, Clarizio couldn't recall teammates complaining.

"We rarely discussed race. When we did, it went something like this:

'We love playing baseball. Things are the way they are.'

While with the Armour Stars, I was one of the leading batters in the Industrial League, and I was noticed by the Chicago American Giants.

Jackie Robinson was signed in 1947 by the Dodgers. The racists were angry. They complained no whites in Negro Leagues. That's when I was signing up."

Clarizio included a photocopy of a 2009 article about his experiences. In the feature, he explained that teammates asked, 'Can this gray cat play baseball?' They didn't say 'white.' In those days, everyone was a cat."

While Comiskey Park was Clarizio's home ballpark (when the White Sox were traveling), the rest of the American Giants' schedule was unpredictable.

"When we played, every small town had a baseball team. The American Pastime. The Major League sponsored them. That was, and still is, their farm clubs.

A typical day started at 11 a.m. We boarded the bus and traveled to these small towns to play.

The first thing we did when we got to the ballparks was eat HOT DOGS.

I can't tell you how many.

Some towns didn't even have one Black person living there.

We would fill the little stadiums. Most people were good."

By 'people,' I assumed Clarizio meant fans. He added:

"The bad racists threw their beer bottles at me, firecrackers.

When I'd get to the dugout we would all have a big laugh.

'Double Duty' (manager Ted Radcliffe) would say, 'Are you starting World War III?' He would ask me if I wanted to move to center field or right."

I'm grateful to this "Gray Cat" for sharing this epic chapter in diamond history. Clarizio's autograph is available for purchase through http://www.negroleaguelegends.org/. The non-profit website helps organize signings to support these history makers. I see it as money well spent.

(Thanks to Kyle Smego at Autograph Addict for suggesting I seek out this barrier breaker.)

Coming Monday: Another side to the Steve Sax mystery?

Seeing Angels ( In My Mailbox)!

2012-01-05T16:29:00.000-06:00

All the Topps facsimile
signatures say "Bob." Yet,
the gifted glove man
graces fans with a "Bobby"
for most TTM replies!

When Bobby Hoeft told about conducting a Baseball Chapel that included the 1970s California Angels, I knew the first team of 2012 that I'd be contacting.

When I received such pleasant reports about Nolan Ryan from former skipper Bobby Winkles, it made me think of a different crew of Angels. Not the many free agents that owner Gene Autry gambled on, but the supporting cast of the 1960s now overshadowed by California's lavish contracts. Think of the 2012 roster. No matter how successful other players are, they'll all face the initial question of "What's Albert Pujols really like?"

Here's 10 overlooked Angels I remembered. I chose to remember them again with a letter. They include:

Earl Averill Jr.
Bob Duliba
Bobby Knoop
Don Lee
Gene Leek
Dan Osinski
Rick Reichardt
George Thomas
Lee Thomas
Gordie Windhorn

Coming Friday: Amazing memories from Louis Clarizio, white Negro Leaguer!

A Letter to Ex-Red Tracy Jones

2012-01-03T15:18:00.000-06:00

I give up! I realize this
1989 Bowman facsimile
signature may be the
closest I ever get to
your autograph!

Dear Tracy Jones:

I write a blog for fans and collectors at

http://www.baseballbytheletters.blogspot.com/

Several of my readers were perplexed by your second straight year of promising autographed cards to anyone who e-mails you. The hobby knows that you SELDOM sign fan mail c/o your WLW workplace, even with the SASE enclosed.

Yes, we listen online.

You said you needed listener phone numbers? Why? Are you telemarketing on the side?

Scott Sloan, your broadcast partner, responded to one listener, saying that he should share the e-mail with his friends. However, you, Mr. Jones, blamed a website for spreading the message and ruining it for everyone, requiring you to shut down the offer?

I've yet to find someone who received an autographed card from their e-mail. Is this just an effort to measure your ratings or popularity?

I'd be happy to share any of your thoughts about autographs or collectors with my readers.

You are a great on-air personality, outspoken, lively and unique, with refreshing points of view. I'd just hate to think you and "Sloanie" were using collectors as pawns to boost listenership. I'd welcome your explanation.

Sincerely,
Tom Owens
http://www.baseballbytheletters.blogspot.com/

Any Baseball New Year's Resolutions?

2012-01-02T10:00:00.000-06:00

The good folks at http://www.buzzfeed.com/ shared this --
singer/songwriter Woody Guthrie's 1942
New Year's Resolutions!

Happy New Year, everyone!

Before I share the beginnings of my 2012 game plan, I wanted to write a bit about New Year's Resolutions.

Think quality, not quantity.

Guard against hobby burnout. Pace yourself Trust me. I know too many collectors seeking flying starts, who send one bazillion letters in January -- then none for the rest of the year.

Here's two simple suggestions:

1. Write to people YOU admire. If your letter isn't sincere, your odds for an autograph plummet.

2. Have fun! There's no one right definition for a hobby. Forget the supposed price guides, or future appearances on ANTIQUES ROAD SHOW. If you like your autographs, then it's a good collection. My advice? Start with memories. If seeing that signature reminds you of a special baseball moment, then you've got a great collectible.

Coming Tuesday: Writing to Angels!

Bobby Hoeft's Still Preaching For Ernie Harwell

2011-12-30T00:11:00.001-06:00

On My Bookshelf!

Bobby Hoeft knows his Tigers. And how can a true fan and historian know the team without knowing legendary broadcaster Ernie Harwell? Bobby amazed me with his response!

Q: What was your relationship with ERNIE HARWELL like?

A: "I was the Pastor of St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Farmington Hills, Michigan, in 1977, when I received a phone call from "Waddy" Spoelstra, a sports writer for a Detroit newspaper and the founder of the MLB Chapel Program. He was inviting me to lead the Tigers in their Chapel Hour on a Sunday in August...it took me one millionth of a second to say yes.

The Angels were in town so I still brag about being the only Pastor to actually preach to Angels. On top of this humor I actually met an Angel! There stood Ernie Harwell with Waddy Spoelstra outside of the office door leading into Tiger Stadium. They were waiting for me and my young son, Bobby II.

They expected me to lead Chapel with Ernie Harwell standing right along side of me! They forgot that I was still a mere human being. The only way that I made it through leading Nolan Ryan and his crew and then Ralph Houk's boys was to just let the Holy Spirit do His job! These Tigers led by Rusty Staub and Ron Leflore were impressed and so was Ernie & me....that Spirit does good work!

That Ernie Harwell is full of surprises. Once on a Sunday afternoon I was enjoying a Tiger game on TV when my wife answered the phone. She answered and then stood there like a house by the side of the road stammering: 'It's Ernie Harwell.' And sure enough it was! All at once it dawned on me. How can he be calling me right in the middle of a ball game that he's announcing? So, I asked him. His answer was simple. 'I make these call during the innings that Paul (Carey) is announcing the game.'

Then in 2003 he agreed to writing columns for the WBWF...Not only did he agree to do that he also said the following words of wisdom: 'Anybody that loves the Tigers will also love WBWF!'

And his calls kept coming until May 4, 2010. That's the day that Ernie became a real ANGEL"

Coming Monday: Bobby Hoeft shares a game plan for collectors.

What Was Willie Mays' Best Throw Ever? Not 1954, Says U.S. Navy Vet Bobby Hoeft!

2011-12-29T15:31:00.000-06:00

Bobby Hoeft saw Mays in a
different uniform in 1953.

This week, I'm sharing treasures from the memory vault of Bobby Hoeft, author of When Baseball Was Fun and publisher of Detroit Tigers Quarterly.

Q: In the Navy, what player impressed you most?

A: "In 1953 I was playing with the Norfolk Navy Flyers. We played against some great baseball players including Dick Groat, Johnny Antonelli and many more but the one player, who, incidentally also played center field, was the incomparable WILLIE MAYS. He was electric, amazing, and yet very humble.

We were playing them at Fort Eustis in Virginia when he made a defensive gem which was even better than his 1954 World Series catch against VIC WERTZ of the Indians at the Polo Grounds. This play was made just one year earlier on Bobby Jo Graham, our big catcher. Graham smashed a 450 foot fast ball out into the darkness beyond the left field light poles. Everything was in play out there because there were no fences.

Bobby Jo was into his home run trot while Mays was busy stationing himself in left field while the left fielder was chasing down the ball. The ball suddenly comes flying out of the darkness and Willie Mays is now catching the ball and twisting into throwing position while Graham is innocently jogging between 3rd and home plate.

From our dugout we could see what was happening and began screaming 'RUN BOBBY JO, RUN!' But to no good. Willie had unleashed a missile that never touched the ground. It was by far the greatest throw ever made in the history of baseball! AND BOBBY JO WAS OUT."

Coming Friday: Remembering Tigers announcer Ernie Harwell.

Bobby Hoeft Joins Tigers Family!

2011-12-28T10:07:00.000-06:00

Bobby Hoeft,
circa 1942

Bobby Hoeft deserves a statue in front of Comerica Park, too. As you've read from yesterday's feature about his book and Detroit Tigers Quarterly newsletter (see his fun website to review, buy and subscribe!), he's never stopped supporting HIS team. Here are more jewels from Hoeft's baseball life:

Q: Who scouted you? Who signed you?

A: "At the ALL-AMERICAN GAME played at the Polo, Grounds in NYC on August 13, 1947, there were scouts from every MLB team in attendance among the crowd of 35,000. During the week preceding the game we practiced every day at Yankee Stadium where I talked to many scouts who were in attendance, however only one team interested me.....THE DETROIT TIGERS. Upon arrival home after the HEARST ALL AMERICAN GAME, many scouts paraded in and out of our East Side home, but on October 2, 1947, with MOM & DAD looking on I signed with WISH EGAN, head scout for the Detroit Tigers. Actually because I was under-aged, my DAD had to co-sign. Egan was a wonderful man and he made the signing a relaxed and comfortable experience. So, now the first step of my dream was secure and I was in the TIGER'S organization!"

Hoeft's minor league career allowed him to co-star with baseball characters straight out of the Bull Durham movie.

Q: Who was your most notable manager in your baseball career?

A: "An easy question because he was my very first manager. In the Spring of 1948 the Tigers optioned me to the Mahonoy City Brewers right in the middle of Pennsylvania where I was introduced to the one and only baseball guru: Clarence 'Buck' Etchison! Buck's claim to fame happened in 1944 with the old BOSTON BRAVES, when he clobbered 8 Taters! He was all old school baseball. WOW! For many of his exploits you'll find them in my book: "WHEN BASEBALL WAS FUN"

For now I'll tell you my own personal experience with this skinny farmer from Endicott, Md., who used to spit his Red Man chewing tobacco all over the umpires, who hated the man! Well, anyway on a hot July Sunday game at home, I managed to get picked off second, in a close game. As I crawled off of the field there stood BUCK waiting for me on the top step. I was ready for the undertaker! My first words were, "I thought..." Those two words were all I got out as he bellowed the following sentence at me, "DON'T EVER THINK AGAIN "HUFFY" (his nickname for me) OR YOU'LL RUIN MY BASEBALL TEAM." !! Words I'll take to my grave."

Coming Thursday: U.S. Navy, 1953...Bobby Hoeft encounters a future Hall of Famer.

'When Baseball Was Fun' - Bobby Hoeft Preserves Classic Detroit Tigers Memories

2011-12-27T10:53:00.000-06:00

From the classic D on the uniform to the voice of Ernie Harwell, the Detroit Tigers have been a tradition-rich team. Preserving those traditions is super-fan Bobby Hoeft.

Hoeft publishes a labor of love four times yearly, the "Detroit Tigers Quarterly." The newsletter is rich with classic tales. Past issues have sparkled with contributions from J.W. Porter, Virgil Trucks and the golden-throated Harwell.

Hoeft's baseball past is the stuff movies are made of. A former Tigers minor leaguer who grew up in Detroit, it's easy to see how his love for the team remains. His book When Baseball Was Fun belongs on every Tiger fan bookshelf. To subscribe to the newsletter or buy an AUTOGRAPHED copy of the book by mail, check out Bobby's website. Meanwhile, enjoy the memories Bobby was kind enough to share in this e-mail interview:

Q: What was the first Tiger game you attended like?

A: I came up the same entrance ramp that Charley Gehringer did down in the rf corner or also called the MICHIGAN/TRUMBULL ramp. Also, just like the Quiet Man I came in straight from a farm. Him from Fowlerville, me from Rogers City. AWESOME is still how I feel to this day whenever I think about it. My Dad had purchased tickets for a weekend series against those damned Yankees. They were also awesome, but nothing like BRIGGS STADIUM. The beauty of how the colors of green and gray just seemed to meld together. The blue sky with it's white fluffy clouds added to this extravaganza...AND THEN THE PLAYERS! There they were trotting around in their proud English "D" uniforms. OOOOPPS, there goes another goose bump!

Q: Did you meet any Tigers growing up? Memories?

After moving down from the farm to the lower east side of Detroit I became a center fielder for as many teams as I could squeeze into a 24 hour day. That's why in 1947 it was natural for me to be found on Belle Isle with another thousand Detroit amateur players trying out for the HEARST ALL AMERICAN BASEBALL TEAM. The first step was to make the cut on the Island. The next step was to make the cut the following week at Northwestern field. Not only did I make the cut at NW I managed to hit a ball out over GRAND RIVER! The last step was to play on the City All-Star team against a Michigan All-Star team at BRIGGS STADIUM. I had a field day, stealing three bases, including home, getting three hits and making a solid "country catch" in center field.

That night I shook hands with Charles Leonard Gehringer! What a thrill!

He was the manager of the out-state team and was given the honor of calling up the two winners. The place was slightly jammed. For the Out-state team read off "JIM ENGLEMAN from Pontiac, Michigan, and the place went starkers. Jimmy went up to the speaker's table to accept the honor. After the crowd settled down the great CHARLEY GEHRINGER cleared his throat and said: 'And representing DETROIT will be that home plate stealer, BOBBY HOEFT, from SOUTHEASTERN HIGH SCHOOL.'

I can still hear my Dad's whistle. I can still feel Charley's handshake. And I can see my Mom crying. The place was the Book Cadillac hotel where THE QUIET MAN and I met several times and where this East Side kid would cherish every word that this man directed my way."

(Thanks to Kohei Nirengi for alerting me to Bobby's amazing story!)

Coming Wednesday: The dream come true...a hometown kid signs with HIS Detroit Tigers!

Seeking My Iowa Cubs (or, Is The Father Of Catcher Steve Christmas 'Father' Christmas?)

2011-12-26T15:11:00.000-06:00

Even the day after Christmas, I'm still in a festive spirit.

Or, maybe it's the STEVE Christmas spirit.

That "No Place Like Home for the Holidays" song sold me. I'm sticking close to home, writing to the men I've encountered as an Iowa Cubs fan.

Each sparkled for at least one day in Des Moines, often while I was in attendance. Those who'll get my last letters of 2011 include:

Steve Christmas
Nate Frese
Joe Hicks
Mike Mahoney (a local hero, whose Dad was a famed high school coach)
Dan Rohn
Wade Rowdon
Bobby Scales
Dave Swartzbaugh
Chico Walker...

and team announcer Deene Ellis

Coming Tuesday: Do you know "When Baseball Was Fun"? Bobby Hoeft, possibly the greatest Detroit Tigers fan ever, still does!

Kerry Robinson Reminds: Ask Carefully

2011-12-24T00:11:00.001-06:00

Robinson has kept
his sig sweet.

As I reflect on 2011, I think I might have found a trend. I'm suffering from a malady, a syndrome.

Let's call the problem "Collectors Who Try Too Hard."

Why do some retired players choose to respond? Perhaps, I've rekindled too many memories for them.

I've wanted to write to former Cardinals outfielder Kerry Robinson.

He worked as a scout for the organization in 2011.

Naturally, Cardinals fans would think that every former Redbird would love the question, "What are your memories of playing for future Hall of Fame manager Tony LaRussa?"

Read about Robinson in the 2005 book Three Nights in August, by Buzz Bissinger. Actually, LaRussa co-authors the book, in that he feeds Bissinger juicy tidbits about the team, providing unheard-of access to team meetings and other insider reflections.

LaRussa turns Robinson into a favorite target, a catch-all for complaints. Everything Robinson does peeves the skipper.

Good hobby friend Rich Hanson told of seeing Robinson at a Cardinals Caravan winter tour stop. Fans wanted the former player to tell about playing for LaRussa.

"No comment," he told listeners.

The moral? Just because everyone else adores a manager, batterymate or superstar teammate doesn't mean that the person reading your letter will.

(Merry Christmas, everybody!)

Coming Monday: Who's on Tom's last "10 Most Wanted" list of 2011?

SportsCollectors.Net - The Perfect Hobby Gift

2011-12-22T00:11:00.001-06:00

A hobby buddy. Yourself. Give someone the gift of a membership to http://www.sportscollectors.net/.

Aside from more postage stamps, it's the best $14.95 purchase a collector can make.

I had a question from a blog reader. A good question." Is it worth it?"

Absolutely!

Before I offer any other details, note that I am not an affiliate. I'm not getting a penny if you join. Doesn't matter. This advice is my Christmas gift to you.

Let's take Steve Sax. Please, someone should!

(Just kidding, Rookies of the Years.)

Well, anyone who belonged to SCN would have seen that Sax got "autograph happy" in early 2011. You'd see under "Latest Sigs By Mail" results posted by other members. Likewise, all past results are tabulated. Just search the site to see his signing history.

I've said many times how helpful Harvey Meiselman's address list is, along with the quarterly updates he sends to customers.

However, three months may be too long to get word of some tough name who's on a signing spree. The message board has many categories. If a collector spots an obituary of ANY retired player, word spreads.
The same instant updates happen for invalid or updated addresses. In fact, in many cases, collectors will share the exact address they used to gain a success.

The "about" page of the site details other helpful hobby data found within.

So many readers of this blog are fellow SCN members. SCN has 6,267 premium (dues-paying) members. I was moved by the a post for the holiday season. Members can post their trade and want lists. One member suggested filling want lists as GIFTS, not as parts of a transaction. Strangers giving autographs to each other!

There's giving on the site each day. Collectors with decades of experience answer posted questions daily.

There's so many great people in this hobby I've yet to encounter. SportsCollectors.Net has been a major resource for me in telling readers about this blog when it first launched. Tips from SCNers have helped me harvest the best baseball tales for you. I've saved time, money and frustration in knowing who's answering fan mail, all through this great autograph resource.

I've belonged for years. I hope you'll join the SCN team, too. It's a gift that keeps on giving.

Coming Friday: My best letter-writing advice of the year? My gift to you.

Collectors Matter to Ed Herrmann

2011-12-21T12:24:00.000-06:00

How popular was Herrmann with
the ChiSox? I found this art on
wwwmearsonlineauctions.com
this 1972. An estimated 3,000
prints were made and sold!

I wrote about Ed Herrmann, the 1970s backstop who's trying to help his injured son with medical bills, earlier this month.

I received this hopeful e-mail from the all-star catcher this morning. He wrote:

"Mike Baker shared your blog with me and your note for fans to send donations with autograph requests. It is a wonderful Christmas surprise each time I receive a donation in the mail. I can’t thank you enough for sharing this information. It is a long, long road for my son Jim’s recovery and every dollar is a huge help to him and his family.

Thank you again for your kindness and generosity.
Merry Christmas.

Ed "Hoggy" Herrmann"

This is the season of miracles. Even if you have his autograph, send a thank-you. Send some hope. Money is only one way of helping. Share Jim Herrmann's story with someone else.

Ed Herrmann
13153 Tobiasson Rd
Poway, CA 92064

I told Ed Herrmann, "I'm sure many people have told you what a good player you were. Let me tell you that I think you're a good Dad."

Baseball is only one way of becoming an all-star.

(Thanks to collector and SCN member Mike Baker for his aid with this story!)

Coming Thursday: Why is a membership in www.sportscollectors.net the best holiday gift a hobbyist could imagine?

Goodbye, Steve Sax

2011-12-20T19:56:00.000-06:00

Don't like the facsimile?
The real one'll cost you!

No, this isn't an obituary.

However, hobbyists might be better off thinking that Steve Sax is dead and gone.

As search engines post their "most searched topics of 2011," the popular http://www.sportscollectors.net/ has been buzzing over "No More Free Steve Sax Autographs." This news post on the website message board brought 136 posts and nearly 3,900 views.

The "successes" section of the site noted that Sax had signed 123 of 264 recorded requests, a 46 percent success rate.

That number is bound to plummet. Sax has entered into a deal with a fan mail handler. It costs $20 for one signed card now.

Angry responses flew on the hobby website. Just one collector pointed out that, in the past year, Sax was sending solicitations with autographs, noting that he could help collectors with an investment opportunity to "expand your income base."

The man who contracted to handle Sax autograph requests said that Sax made a deal with him. Sax, despite sending out notes for collectors who want to be investment customers to contact his secretary, claimed that he was unable to handle the number of letters? Ironically, in a web search, I found that Sax has a website touting his skills as a motivational speaker.

My advice? Let Steve Sax go. Ignore the hobby dealer who's handling the mail. Spend the $20 on writing to 22 more retired players. More retirees will follow Sax's path. Write now.

Why Didn't He Answer My Fan Mail?

2011-12-19T13:57:00.000-06:00

The facsimile autograph is the
closest most collectors
have been to a Fick sig.

Sometimes, collectors may never know why they didn't get an autograph reply.

Or, clues might not appear for years.

This "comeback" story about Robert Fick is a feel-good feature, for a couple of reasons.

First, it's nice to think that someone can be happy again after overcoming alcoholism.

Secondly, Fick remained one of the most consistent non-signers of the past decade.

Why didn't your letter get an answer? Hmmm...

It will be fascinating to see if four years of sobriety gives Fick a different outlook on fans and collectors.

(Thanks to Frank Barning for the Fick link. Frank, famed from his days as Baseball Hobby News, is writing a fun "Barnstorming" blog that spotlights key chapters in hobby history.)

Postal Service Employees Are My All-Stars

2011-12-16T16:31:00.000-06:00

Can you imagine collecting autographs without them?

(Photo courtesy USPS)

This holiday season is the time of miracles.

I've been part of a miracle for the last 40 years.

I can't think of a better description for the United States Postal Service.

For just two stamps, 88 cents, I get access to any former major leaguer. All I need is an address. Often, this magic happens in days. This bargain still amazes me.

Imagine saying to some stranger in the shopping mall: "Here's a buck. Take this note to that guy way down there, then bring me back a response."

Yeah, not likely. Well, that's the feat the USPS performs -- every day!

I'm not saying the USPS is perfect. All I know is that they have a much better batting average than I've ever enjoyed. The thought of nearly 16 BILLION packages being handled and delivered between Thanksgiving and Christmas is astounding.

Thank your mail carrier. Learn their name. For all the joy they bring, I don't think they get a lot of appreciation.

I'm grateful to Angela (our route's postal carrier) and all other USPS staff who've helped me connect with major leaguers since 1972. I couldn't have done it without you.

Is Pitcher Pat Neshek Santa Claus?

2011-12-15T18:13:00.000-06:00

One of many great photos at
Pat Neshek's AMAZING website!

Clark Kent is really Superman, right?

Well, I think Pat Neshek may be Santa Claus.

In case you're the last fan or collector to hear of this pitcher of old-school gratitude, go to the Pat Neshek website. Go on. I'll wait.

Welcome back. This player-collector loves cards and autographs as much as we do. His fan mail proves it. Someone who'll trade his own autographed cards (of himself) for your duplicates? Want an autographed photo. "Feel free to download" he writes, offering online albums for collectors to choose from.

He takes pride in his autograph. Even in a difficult season with the 2011 Padres, he still tried to take time to blog.

Hope this free-agent signs with your team. He's like a United Nations ambassador us fans can send to a team, in hopes of him convincing other players than fans and collectors deserve respect, too.

Pat Neshek deserves our thanks. Seek out his Facebook page. He may not be Santa, but he's one of the best-throwing elves I've ever seen.

Coming Friday: Thanking the U.S. Postal Service.

Author (and Mets Fan!) Phil Bildner Brings Baseball's Past Alive For Youngest Fans

2011-12-14T19:34:00.000-06:00

I'm a Phil Bildner fan. The attorney-turned-teacher-turned-author is today's Matt Christopher, and then some!

Bildner is a literary time traveler. His Sluggers book series, about turn-of-the-century barnstormers, is like chocolate-coated vegetables. It's so much fun that young readers will never know that they're being introduced to baseball lore. As an historian, Bildner makes the past matter a current topic for young fans.

Via his all-star website, http://www.philbildner.com/, the author took time to answer some questions.

Q: You've written about many famous baseball names. Have you ever collected autographs, in person or by mail?

A: As a kid, I used to ask for players' autographs all the time. I was (and still am) a huge New York Mets fan growing up. I remember getting Bud Harrelson's autograph when I started little league. I don't think I ever sent a letter seeking an autograph.

These days, I don't collect autographs, but I do have a signed Hank Aaron baseball, which is pretty special. I also have a signed copy of Marvin Miller's book.

Q: Have you interacted with current or former players while writing your books?
A. While writing Shoeless Joe & Black Betsy, I reached out to Bob Feller, and I actually got a voice-mail response from him. He wanted no part of writing a blurb for the book! I also met Tommy Lasorda at a Shoeless Joe Jackson statue dedication ceremony in Greenville, South Carolina. I know both Bobby Thomson and Ralph Branca were given copies of The Shot Heard 'Round the World.

Q:.Your great new book is about Ted Williams, Joe DiMaggio, and their great 1941 season. If you could reach Teddy Ballgame in baseball heaven by mail, what would you ask him?

A: I would love the opportunity to ask Ted Williams about the home run in his last at bat. I'd also like to ask him about his return to Fenway for the All-Star Game before he passed.

Q: What's in your baseball writing future?

A: I'm working on a couple of new baseball history titles, but like baseball players, we baseball authors are a superstitious bunch. Don't want to jinx them! I also penned a chapter book series with Loren Long called Sluggers. It's about a barnstorming band of baseball players touring the country in 1899. Each book is set in a different city with many winks and nods to the baseball mystique of those settings.

Coming Thursday: Does Pat Neshek pitch for Santa Claus?

Going Deep 600 Times: A Blog Milestone

2011-12-13T15:52:00.000-06:00

When I started writing this blog in February, 2010, I wasn't sure what to expect.

I vowed to swing for the fences every time I wrote. However, I'm sure my efforts haven't cleared the infield on many occasions.

Not for a lack of trying. As selfish as it sounds, I must confess: I write for myself. I choose the former players who interest me. I select topics I want to read about myself.

In other words, I'm inspired by Mike Cramer, who founded Pacific Trading Cards. I asked him about making card sets.

"I make the first set for ME," he replied. "It has to be what I like."

As this blog prepares for a third year, I thank every reader. I promise I'll keep bringing you the baseball subjects I care most about.

A second promise: every agent, every sports book editor, I will find you, too. These tales belong in a book. These names from baseball's past have entrusted me with classic memories. Their stories deserve to be shared in every way.

Coming Wednesday: Meet baseball author Phil Bildner

Denny Walling Is Ghost of Christmas Past?

2011-12-12T14:18:00.000-06:00

Walling had a mustache for
most of his career. Is he ever
tempted to draw on facial
hair on early cards he
autographs?!?

I'd call it lucky 13, as in months needed for a response.

I didn't get any reply to questions from Denny Walling. However, I found two autographed cards as his much-anticipated reply. These were
gifts, cards he sent.

I'm predicting Walling-like replies for you, too. Call it the Christmas spririt.

The wife of the retiree is sending out Christmas cards. She looks at her husband and says, "While I'm doing this, why don't you answer those autograph requests that have been piling up for years? We can mail both batches together!"

Never say never.

Coming Tuesday: A 600th post for Baseball By The Letters!

Hank Foiles Catches Enthusiasm of Collector, Historian and Author Douglas Williams

2011-12-09T19:10:00.000-06:00

Catcher Hank Foiles autographing
his new book.
(Photo courtesy Douglas Williams)

It's good to have a player share his autograph. It's great when he shares a memory.

Douglas Williams has enjoyed both victories as a fan. He's on his way to sharing his discoveries a third time, co-authoring a book with another former player. To celebrate the release of a new Hank Foiles book, Douglas shared his own story.

Q: How big is your TTM collection? Have you had any focus (certain teams or years)?

A: About 200 autographs, mostly 3x5s of players from the 1920s to 1960s. Many Cleveland Indians. Also a few pre WWII gum cards (Goudeys, Playballs,etc.)

Q: When did your letters progress from just asking for sigs, to maybe asking questions?

A: I started with questions right away, 30 yrs ago when I wrote to Indians from the 1920 championship team and I got some nice replies.

Q: What's your procedure today in what you send? What are your typical letters like?

A: I mention something concerning the player's team, his manager or his teammate just to let him know I really have some idea who he is and I know something about his past.

Q: Please tell more about your first book. Who are some of the player friendships included?
Is the book still available?

A: Some readers have told me it is like a mini version of L. Ritter's The Glory of Their Times. I visited ex-players, many who were fringe players who only had a cup of coffee in the majors. I was was able to get some of their best memories and some insight into their careers which were then put into short chapters about each each person. In some cases I was only able to find surviving family members, but many of them became wonderful close friends...people like Mrs. Dorothy Marrow (widow of "Buck") who has passed away and also Patricia Shermer, daughter of Geo. "High Pockets" Kelly.

Some of the subject players in So Many Summer Fields were surprised that I knew who they were or that I could locate them. Often they felt like they were forgotten or that they had no real story to share. (Very humble and modest).

So Many Summer Fields is still available through Authorhouse Publishing Co. or copies signed by both Mr. Foiles can be purchased directly from me (jdougwilliams@verizon.net) $12 ea. plus $5 postage ......$17 total.

Q: Please tell about your friendship with Hank Foiles. When did it begin? How many letters have you two exchanged?

A: No letters. I contacted him by phone about 12-13 yrs ago to see if he would sign a 1955 Indians team baseball for me. He agreed and once I visited him at his office, I met his son Marc and he and I became good friends. It is interesting to note that for my 10th birthday back in 1962, my Mom and dad gave me an official Rawlings- Hank Foiles model catcher's mitt, so naturally he became one of my favorites since his name was in-stamped on my glove! Now when I think about things, it seems surreal to realize that he is one of my best friends.

Sometimes you never know where the twists and turns of life's path will lead you. It seems our relationship was one of those things that was just meant to be!

Q: What has Hank told you about his fan mail, such as number of letters weekly?

A: He receives quite a bit of mail each week, something arrives at his house just about every day. He is accommodating to everyone, but does not sign duplicate cards or photos.

Q: Does the book tell any about Hank's baseball cards? What inside info do you know
about some particular years or poses? Was he wrongly pictured in the Orioles set?

A: His cards are not mentioned in "A Pirate's Journey" however, his 1961 Topps card, signed is shown as part of his chapter in SMSF. Hank feels that Crown Oil had no right to produce the Orioles card set without cutting the players in on the deal. The oil company got no authorization or permission from any of them and while Foiles was likely right in his position, there were very few of the other ex-Orioles who joined the cause.

Q: Did you correspond with other players about Hank before writing the book? What
did they tell you?

A: No only after the book was finished. Hank put me in touch with Bob Friend, Bill Mazeroski, Dick Groat and one or two of his other old Pirate buddies and they each gave us a good plug to use on the back cover. They were all friendly and helpful.

Q: You wrote another book with Jim Coates. How has he felt about autographs?

A: Jim is a wonderful person! The reason I didn't get back to you, Tom, until now is because I spent all day with him yesterday on the golf course. He shot an 80 !! He's 79 years old!

Jim has warmed up quite a bit from what I've seen to collectors. MLB Alumni may be discouraging a lot of free signings in the mail so that they can profit through their own auctions and such. He answers requests for sigs, but when it comes to questions about his career he asks that fans get a copy of his book Always A Yankee to get answers.

That book is available thru Infinity Press, http://www.buybooksontheweb.com/ or you can get signed copies directly from me.

Q: Other advice for fans who might like to get some kind of personal response from a letter?

A: Never start you request by saying to mushy like "You were my favorite player of all-time." Many players will say right up front that they know that is a bunch of bull. A handwritten letter is much better for the old players than something typed or any type of form letter. Also, most guys have doubts when a collector says he is putting together a collection for his son or grandchild. But they usually go along with it, anyway.

Q: Your collecting goals? Future books?

A: My collecting has slowed down over the past several years since I have been so busy writing and doing book signings. Now, I'm working on a book with Dolly Konwinski who played pro baseball with the Grand Rapids Chicks. Dolly had a bit part in the movie "A League of Their Own." We're just gettin' started, but I think we just may have something good in the works.

Q: How did you decide on the cover for Hank's book?

A: The photo on the cover is from 1959 and it shows Hank tagging Maury Wills out at the plate. I spoke with Maury about that and he said laughingly, "Just for the sake of argument, you tell Hank that I still think I was safe! And thanks to you and Hank for all the negative publicity you giving me!"

I'm grateful to Doug. Likewise, applause goes to Kohei Nirengi, for suggesting this profile!

Coming Monday: Denny Walling catches the Christmas spirit?

Collecting Baseball Autographs: An Update

2011-12-08T15:24:00.000-06:00

It's time to try again.

More than 20 years ago, I wrote this book. Long out of print, I realize that the world has changed.

However, some things stay the same. I still believe this is a great hobby, one that a newcomer can enjoy. When I had a comment posted this week for any tips, I decided to see if I could condense my advice from a book down to one feature. Here goes:

HOW TO COLLECT AUTOGRAPHS THROUGH THE MAIL

1. Always enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope
2. NEVER risk sending something you'd hate to lose. Even if the signer signs it, you have to get the item returned safely from the postal service. Because some signers get hundreds of letters a year, they may return your valuable card to a lucky, unknown collector. You could get their poor-condition common.
3. Use the most current home addresses possible. Join http://www.sportscollectors.net/. Buy the "Baseball Address List," compiled yearly from Harvey Meiselman.
4. Send a personal letter, not a form letter. Show you know about the person you're asking for an autograph.
5. If you send different cards, send no more than three. Two would be better. Most people who get duplicates of anything think you're selling the extra on eBay.
6. The oldest retirees may prefer a hand-written letter. Because these people spent more time playing sports than learning how to type, they may suspect that you're letter wasn't real.
7. Any time you get something extra in a response (added photos, a letter, etc.), write another note of thanks. These strangers are trying to make you happy. Let them know you are.
8. Be ready to help other collectors. If you have news, share it. Likewise, don't be shy. There are many in the hobby who remember what it was like to be a newbie. They'll respond to a thoughtful, sincere question.

These are the basics. Print out the list, or forward the tips to someone who'd like to try TTM autographs.

Are there other tips that need to be included, readers?

Coming Friday: Hank Foiles shares his baseball story.

Tracking Down Baseball's Brothers

2011-12-07T11:38:00.000-06:00

Do brothers have
similar autographs?

I heard it most recently from Dick Adams. A dream come true is one victory. Sharing that dream is sweeter still.

Someone who plays pro ball, then sees a brother achieve the same? That's TV movie stuff!

For this week, I've sought out members of baseball families, including:

Sal Bando (heard from Chris)
Bud Daley
Pete Daley
Marcel Lachemann
Rene Lachemann
Joe Keough
Marty Keough
Darrell Sutherland
Gary Sutherland
Pat Underwood

Coming Thursday: Collecting baseball autographs by mail...a beginner's guide.

A Pitch For Catcher Ed Herrmann

2011-12-06T17:01:00.000-06:00

Ed has kept that trademark "H"
in his autograph.

"Yes, I collected cards along with my dad. I still have most of them. Being featured on so many cards confirms that all the work I did as a kid paid off. Of course, if it weren't for the talent and perseverance God gave me, none of it would have been possible."

-- Ed Herrmann

In 2001, the fiery catcher sent me that memory for my book Collecting Baseball Cards: 21st Century Edition.

In 2011, life has thrown Herrmann a curve.

His son Jim suffered severe injuries in a dirt bike accident.

Herrmann has remained a faithful signer for fans over the years, never demanding a fee. Even though his son's medical bills must be daunting, Herrmann hasn't instituted a for-pay policy.

Enclosing a couple of bucks marked for son Jim, whether you're seeking an autograph or not, would salute the Christmas season. Even if sending money is tough, consider just sending a note. He's sent fans his best wishes for years. Return the favor to:

Ed Herrmann
13153 Tobiasson Rd
Poway, CA 92064

If you're sending a baseball to get signed (with a return postage-paid mailer, of course), enclose a healthy donation and ask for a "bio ball." Ask Herrmann to list his years played, his three nicknames, his first major league hit, the date he caught Larry Dierker's no-hitter -- any career highlights he wants to fill the panels with. You'll get a unique treasure, along with the joy of helping fuel a comeback.

Coming Wednesday: "10 Most Wanted" -- Family Edition.

Don't Dupe Anyone With Dupes

2011-12-05T11:25:00.000-06:00

Get them. Use them! I
found these at
http://www.post-it.com/.

I still don't get it.

I've seen three types of responses tracked on hobby websites. To paraphrase, these comments include:

"Signed 8 of 8. Said he could keep some for himself, but he signed them all!"

"Kept my set card. Signed everything else. Grrr!"

"Signed only one. Kept the rest. Geez!"

Let's call these "yo-yo givers." They want all the cards signed, but want to save time and postage. These collectors have a hunch that the ex-player may not read the letter closely, offering a same-day return on everything in the envelope.

The solution is simple: ask Santa for Post-It Notes. Mark each card with a FOR YOU if you want the former player to keep that card.

Furthermore, spell it out in the letter. Such as, "I've enclosed six cards. I'll be grateful if you sign the three unmarked cards. The remainder, marked TO SHARE, should be given to anyone you choose. Please, treat another fan who may not be as lucky as I am to have cards of you."

If the Christmas spirit convinces the autograph signer to remove each Post-It and return the excess autographed cards to you, so be it. I'll make sure you get moved to Santa's "nice" list.

Coming Tuesday: A Christmas wish for Ed Herrmann.

Roy Campanella, Rolling Stones, Superfans: Dodgers Coach Mark Cresse Remembers

2011-12-02T13:45:00.000-06:00

Los Angeles Dodgers fans marvel at the years served by Bill Russell. Another overlooked team fixture during those many glory years was Mark Cresse.

Cresse served as bullpen coach for 22 seasons. A third-round draftee by the Cardinals in 1971, he went on to found the Mark Cresse School of Baseball.

I wrote to find out his views about Dodger Stadium, bullpen misadventures and his overlooked talent.

What did he remember most about Dodger Stadium? Interestingly, Cresse recalled the people before the sights:

"I enjoyed daily talks with the season ticket holders near me in the bullpen. I was always amazed with the passion they had for the Dodgers!"

What's the craziest thing Cresse ever witnessed by relievers trying to amuse themselves?

"I promised Jesse Orosco that if we were ever ahead by 15 runs in a game, he could bring his stereo down to the bullpen. Sure enough, it happened and here came his giant stereo playing the Rolling Stones' Satisfaction."

During his years with the Dodgers, Cresse gained secondary fame as a baseball woodworker. He made lamps out of broken bats. Did any famous names ever collect his work?

"The best bat lamp I ever made was an eight-bat lamp that I made for Roy Campanella. He gave me eight bats from his last team in Brooklyn and I made him a cool table lamp."

Coming Monday: Givings, and misgivings, by collectors at Christmas.

LOL: Baseball E-Mail Autographs?!?

2011-12-01T17:07:00.000-06:00

Imagine ol' Case' saying:
"No autographs. But you
can find me on Facebook!"

Christmas is coming, not Halloween. Therefore, why are reply times for former players getting so scary?

I’m not giving up on old-fashioned U.S. Mail contacts with baseball’s past. I am simply pondering the non-replies and years-long delays from Rip Van Winkle-like retirees. We're not talking Hall of Famers, but cup-of-coffee guys and those who left the diamond years ago.
.
That’s why I’m trying an experiment. E-mail. Websites. Social media. Any way to take the pulse of a former player before sending out my envelope of hope.

I’ve never imagined being a collector who would print out an e-mail to save in a scrapbook. I want a handwritten reply, proof that a person gave special thought to my question.

Then again, are retirees becoming so cynical that they’d delight in the lack of resale value in an e-mail? They could still transmit their memory, cyber-sending their thoughts without the fear of my selling an unsigned printout on eBay?

Additionally, I think the rush of E-immediacy may prompt some non-mail signers to reply. Have you ever been at a shop checkout counter, money in hand, only to be brushed aside by the person supposedly waiting on you? Why? The unknown caller and the ringing telephone seemed more important.

Of course, I’ll share whatever responses I receive, both from tortoises and hares.

Coming Friday: Did Mark Cresse witness the wildest day ever in the L.A. Dodgers bullpen?

Where Are the 1982 Milwaukee Brewers?

2011-11-30T10:18:00.000-06:00

Is the ex-hurler's sig still
so swell? I hope to find out!

In this installment of "Tom's 10 Most Wanted," I thought of those near-miss Milwaukee Brewers of 2011.

Do they answer fan mail? I'm not hopeful...I struck out trying to get their bullpen catcher!

Instead, I decided to revisit the past. I thought of another mystical Milwaukee team: The Blue Crew of '82.

Here's the "10 From Then" getting letters from me:

Jerry Augustine
Dwight Bernard
Jamie Easterly
Pete Ladd
Don Money
Rob Picciolo
Chuck Porter
Ed Romero
Harry Warner
Ned Yost

Stay tuned...

Coming Thursday: Seeking other ways to correspond with baseball's past.

Padres Pitcher Ed Wojna Compares Experiences In Little League, Major League Baseball

2011-11-29T16:26:00.000-06:00

What to ask in letters?
Check cards for clues.
Here's one I missed --
what's that fashion
statement at Wojna's
left sleeve?

Hurlers. Humility. The two don't always mix.

Not here! Pitcher Ed Wojna bypassed the chance for some chest-thumping when I asked about what seems like the ultimate game of his career.

Thanks to http://www.retrosheet.org/, I found the details for his three-hit gem in front of a sparse San Diego crowd. On Sept. 11, 1986, Wojna (pronounced Wo-hee-na) limited the Braves to three singles. How did he remember his 9-1 complete-game win?

"One of those nights when everything was working."

I wanted to know the catcher he most liked working with -- and why.

"Mark Parent. Pitcher-catcher timing is everything. When you are thinking of a pitch and he calls it with his first sign, that gives you all the more confidence in throwing it."

Wojna offered one more fascinating reflection:

"Tom,

I can appreciate your interest in baseball. No matter how long your career went, it's all the same to the individual. I was just as nervous for my first Little League game as the first game in the majors. Nerves are nerves, whether you're 10 or 24 years old."

Wojna concluded his letter with thoughts about his faith as a Jehovah's Witness, thanking me for my time.

I thank all the former players, those willing to look back as they look ahead. As Wojna wrote...

"There will always be more to learn. Isn't that what keeps life exciting?"

Coming Wednesday: Tom's "10 Most Wanted" -- Milwaukee Brewers edition!

Don't Be An Autograph 'Grinch'

2011-11-28T15:12:00.000-06:00

Collect carefully
at Christmas!

Santa Claus may not have time to warn you, so I will.

Sending a Christmas card to a favorite retiree, especially with words of thanks to someone who's signed an autograph for you is good. Chances are, you may get a card in return.

However, do not go fishing for autographs, using Christmas cards as bait.

I've talked with more than one former player about fan mail. They are pleased to mention the majority of kind, polite letters requesting signatures.

However, I've heard too many "but there was this one guy who..." beginnings to stories.

I can't help but think that many non-signers closed the door on autographs with one objectionable request. Don't be that "one guy."

Your continued good behavior will preserve the hobby. You're giving a gift to all of us.

Santa Claus thanks you. I do, too.

Coming Tuesday: Insights from Padres pitcher Ed Wojna.

The Pride of Swifton, Arkansas: Bobby Winkles Remembers George, 'Skeeter' Kell

2011-11-24T15:42:00.000-06:00

Bobby Winkles is still proud of the
company he keeps!

(Photo courtesy of Guy Lancaster and
the Encyclopedia of Arkansas website.)

It's nice to get a second chance.

I wrote about Bobby Winkles twice in this blog. He sent me an epic letter, describing what it was like to coach Reggie Jackson in college. Later, he recounted the work ethic and sincere charm of pitcher Nolan Ryan while skippering the California Angels.

I asked about everyone but Winkles. He mentioned growing up near Swifton.

Swifton is the hometown of Hall of Famer George Kell and his brother Everett "Skeeter" Kell.

Both Kells made an impact in Winkles' rise to success. He remembered...

"I was born in Tuckerman, Ark. Moved to Swifton when I was 9 years old.

Skeeter Kell was one year ahead of me at Swifton High School. We didn't have baseball. Small school, 19 in my graduation class. Skeeter and I played on the Town team. We played each Sunday when our cotton was plowed for the last time. We played Thursday and Sunday.

Skeeter and I were like brothers.

George Kell was my idol. he was my teacher in the 7th grade. There's a 10 by 15-foot sign on the highway honoring the three of us. The only city in Arkansas to have three major league participants at the major league level.

Swifton had a population of 520. We also have a three-star general, Billy Paul Bowden.

I lived 3-1/2 miles from Swifton on a cotton farm. We lived in a 2-story house. The upstairs windows were boarded up and we had no electricity or plumbing."

Winkles will be 82 on March 11. I've always thought his humble roots would make a good book. He agrees.

"I have a book coming out around the first of the year. Those who have read the manuscript says it's good reading. Tell your friends. Ha ha."

Coming Monday: a holiday warning for autograph collectors.

Baseball Sculptor Lou Cella Takes Few Bows

2011-11-23T10:25:00.000-06:00

This striking Associated Press photo by Elaine Thompson
shows long-time broadcast partner Rick Rizzs congratulating
Marilyn Niehaus at the 2011 Safeco Field unveiling of the
statue of late husband Dave Niehaus. I like the picture for
what it DOES NOT show. The beard and patterned tie
in the photo's upper right belong to sculptor Lou Cella.
The artist is a humble hero!

This Week in Baseball introduced me to sculptor Lou Cella.

Getting Cella and artistic co-creator Oscar Leon on camera was no easy feat. Seeing them both present for the Cellular Field installation of the Frank Thomas sculpture was a treat. Seeing the gratitude and admiration of "Big Hurt" made the feature even more meaningful.

The TWIB segment showed only a glimpse of Cella's back. His White Sox jersey read Sculptor 35. Cella explained:

"The '35 Sculptor' jersey. Originally, the thought was that my sculpting partner Oscar Leon and I would both wear one of those to the unveiling of the Frank Thomas sculpture. I bought a game-used jersey at Sox Fest and had the lettering added later. But the idea lost steam when Oscar never had one made.

I felt like it would have been too self-serving and detract from both Frank Thomas and Oscar if I wore it by myself to the unveiling. So I wore it for the installation instead, and This Week in Baseball showed me in it. I was considering having a cubs version made for the Ron Santo piece, but I already have about 10 Cubs jerseys as it is. Maybe down the road."

During the dedication of the Ron Santo statue, it seemed the Santo family posed for a picture holding a mini version of the statue. That made me wonder if Cella knows of collectible-sized baseball figurines.

Does he ever!

"I love both the Hartlands and the MacFarlane pieces. In my world, I make collectibles so much, that buying them is just not logistically feasible. In other words, I have no room. But I do admire them, and am always tempted to purchase them."

Collectors may own a Cella creation without knowing. He adds...

"I have done numerous miniatures for Romito Inc. I do not know exactly how many off hand, but there are about a dozen large ones which have my name on them. You will see others on the site which I did not sign on, but likely helped a little or a lot with.

The full body of my monument level work is visible at http://www.rotblattamrany.com/."
Here's an impressive New York Times roundup feature, surveying the variety of baseball statues outside ballparks. Of course, Cella's included in this all-star lineup.

Coming for Thanksgiving: Thankful Bobby Winkles remembers his Arkansas childhood, complete with memories of George and Skeeter Kell.

Baseball Sculptor Lou Cella Reveals His Game Plan For Ernie Banks Wrigley Field Statue

2011-11-22T16:59:00.004-06:00

Mr. Cub at the 2008
Wrigley Field unveiling.
(Photo courtesy Lou Cella)

Baseball has a Lone Ranger. Maybe a whole team of hard-to-spot superheroes!

I remember the masked man who saves the day and rides away quickly, while us grateful townsfolk mutter, "We didn't have time to thank him."

Fast-forward to sculptor Lou Cella. Outside ballparks, he's creating great baseball bronze artworks. He works with The Studio of Rotblatt-Amrany, often teaming with fellow artistic talents like Oscar Leon. Just when it's time to take bows, the sculptors are off to the next opportunity to three-dimensionalize baseball's past.

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I want to attempt to thank these creators this week.

I received a wondrous letter from Cella. I wrote to him to praise his understanding and appreciation of baseball. He began by explaining his vision for the Ernie Banks statue, writing:

"While working on any ball player, I am always trying to focus on a particular period in their career. I am usually narrowing this down to a specific year, and, on occasion, an exact date.

Case in point: The Cubs wanted to depict Ernie Banks as he looked in one of his MVP years (1958 or 1959). The uniform changed a bit in 1959 to what it more traditionally looks like today. The Cubs also asked to have Ernie shown smiling at bat. This is not normal, of course, but as much of a purist as I am when it comes to baseball, I still consider capturing the essence and personality of the person a critical part of the total presentation. This is, after all, a piece of art, and certain 'licenses' are going to be taken.

Ernie loved the game was always seen as a man who was having fun playing the game. He comes across as a happy man all the time. Therefore, I was very pleased that the Cubs wanted to go this route. Would Ernie be smiling at bat? No, of course not. But it still works. I think it works better than if we had been strictly realistic. I would never have considered this with Carlton Fisk or Ty Cobb. So you consider the pose and the person as you do this.

Another element I added to the history of this piece is exactly when the moment in time was. Upon telling a close friend of mine, Gary Colobuono, what I was doing he became very excited and told me this story.

August 29, 1959 was the first time Gary went to a baseball game. His father brought Gary and his brother to Wrigley Field to see the Cubs take on the greatest left-handed pitcher ever, Warren Spahn (respects to Koufax) and the Milwaukee Braves. At a certain point, the Cubs were losing, 2-0, with two runners on base. With Ernie Banks on deck, Spahn walked the bases full. So, on August 29, 1959, with Warren Spahn on the mound, the Cubs down by two, the bases loaded, and Gary Colobuono in the stands with his Dad, Ernie Banks hit a Grand Slam.

When Gary told me this story, I immediately decided that any time I was asked when this statue was supposed to be taking place, it would be right before Ernie hit that Grand Slam off Warren Spahn. That is one example of my understanding of baseball. A father, a son, and for them, a moment that will live forever."

Enjoy this 2009 feature detailing Cella's college days and his Illinois connections.

(Thanks to http://www.retrosheet.org/ for the Banks grand slam report.)

Coming Wednesday: Sculptor Cella's views on collectibles.

Autograph Collectors: Time To Give Thanks

2011-11-21T09:55:00.000-06:00

Don't be that turkey. Thank
those who help your hobby!

1. The Guy Who Signed Your Autograph

2. The Collectors Who Helped You Learn The Hobby

3. The people who still love you, despite your craziness for baseball.
They give you stamps, paper, ink, time, patience, forgiveness, etc.

We have a lot to be thankful for.

"Yeah, I know."

Trouble is, they may not know. Tell them! Remind them.

Put the THANKS in thanksgiving.

P.S. - Thank you, Diana.

Coming Tuesday: Insights from Lou Cella, baseball sculptor!

Meet Japan's Kohei Nirengi, Leading The Way For Major League Fans, Autograph Collectors

2011-11-17T22:36:00.000-06:00

"I met with Mr. Bob Wolff and his wife, Mrs. Jean, in New York City in March, 2009, it was my second trip to the U.S. This HOF broadcaster invited me out to lunch as his first fan from Japan. I never forget that he brought my air mails and letters to him at that time. He was a first person who wanted me to become friend in baseball. I had a great time with both. He also hired a Japanese interpreter for me ! My hobby has brought many happiness to me."
(Photo and words courtesy of Kohei Nirengi)

Some baseball fans collect autographs. Kohei Nirengi collects friendships.

I met Kohei (pronounced CO-hey) after an August e-mail. As a pen pal with former Cub Bob Will, he learned of this blog.

Instantly, I was impressed by the knowledge and passion of this fan from Japan. He was focusing his collection on retired players. Except, he was corresponding with them! It seemed like baseball families were adopting him.

Small wonder. He wrote thorough, insightful letters. He asked great questions. Retirees knew who he was, why he loved baseball and why he wanted THEIR autograph. Then, he'd send thank-you notes, even portraits that this talented artist created out of gratitude.

Kohei is TRI-lingual. He speaks and writes his native Japanese, English and baseball.

Q:. When did you first start collecting Major League autographs by mail? Who was your first?

A: I started it in October, 2004. Bobby Valentine, since he managed the Chiba Lotte Marines at that time. I thought it would be easy for me to get his autograph by domestic mail than by air mail after he would come back to the US.

Q: How did you learn about finding retired player addresses, SASEs and U.S. stamps? How common is it in Japan to collect Japanese player autographs by mail?

A: It was easy to find some good TTM websites by Japanese serious collectors on-line when I decided to start. So I could realize that I would find former player addresses, if I could purchase Harvey Meiselman's baseball address lists. Much of Japanese collectors wrote about SASE on their websites, too, so that it was easily understand that I should enclose such a thing with my fan letter. U.S. stamps were very difficult to get early in my challenging, so I had to buy many expensive U.S. commemorative stamps via our Yahoo! auction. Then I found a Japanese trader who lives in the West Coast on-line, and I could buy many U.S. stamps from him, but, of course, I had to pay allowance to him. Nowadays I buy them as I have a chance to visit the U.S. This is the best way!

Well, needless to say, you must enclose SASEs with your letters to Japanese players by mail. Also I'm sure the most important thing is to send your passion for baseball and each players with your requests.

Q: Who offered the first response of something more than signing your card? Can you share an example or two of people responding with a letter or extra autographed items, wanting to befriend a fan from another country?

A: Phil Niekro offered his autographed HOF card of himself. Gary Kroll, former pitcher with the Mets, was very kind to offer very nice photos in baseball to me, and told me about a slugfest between the Cubs and Phils at the Wrigley Field. Dwight " Red" Adams and George Elder responded with my questions by mail. George Green, former outfielder in the Negro Leagues had befriended me, I really appreciated his help to better understand their history.

Q: What percentage retirees (versus current players) do you write to? Why do you have a special interest in FORMER players, being such a young fan?

A: The percentage of retirees to current players on my requests is 90 to 10. Because I just respect the history of this greatest game of baseball, so I want to send my gratitude for each former player. Also I would love to investigate each story in baseball by themselves, all of them would be worth sharing.

Q: What is a typical letter like that you write? How often do you ask questions? What items do you ask to have signed -- if any?

A: " I believe that baseball is the most beautiful game all around the world." This is my typical note to write on each of my requests, I really mean it. To be honest, I rarely asked questions on my letters until I found your awesome blog about not only collections but also such questions by letters. Then I try to ask a few questions to them often. In my case, I've enclosed each baseball card or original Index card which I made by myself to get their autographs by mail.

Q: Do any autograph signers note that they’re surprised that a fan from another country could know so much about American baseball? And how do you keep so well informed about baseball, past and present?

A: Yeah, in fact, few former players from the 1940's, like Red Borom and Cy Buker, noted they pretty impressed on my knowledge of American baseball. Needless to say, I'm very honored. Well, it was very difficult to keep up with the updated news about MLB here in Japan before Hideo Nomo broke into the Big Leagues with the Dodgers in 1995, and then a couple of monthly MLB magazines in Japanese have published, although, one of them had to stop the publication four years ago. Anyhow, I can get much information about American baseball, past and present, by them. Also I could find many old baseball books in an used-book store in Tokyo. Nowadays I'm blessed to have the Internet to get many updates across the Pacific Ocean. Amazing!

Q: How difficult is it to get American baseball cards -- past and present -- to get signed?

A: I think it is easy for any Japanese MLB fans to get current American baseball cards on-line. We have some sports' cards shops over here, they handle not only Japanese sports' cards, but MLB, NFL, NBA and NHL. Also if you can get into an auction site like Yahoo!, probably you could get past American baseball cards, but it would be expensive often. Our shops or such auction website also handle so many signed baseball cards, so you can get them here in my country.

Q: You mentioned that your parents are fans of Hideki Matsui. Have you had success writing to Japanese major leaguers here in America? Have you written to them in Japanese? I think every collector would love an Ichiro autograph.

A: Yes, fortunately, I could succeed in getting Hiroki Kuroda, Masumi Kuwata, and Koji Uehara, not many, but I love these autographs ! Yes, of course, I've written to them in Japanese. I've tried to get Ichiro's autograph in the mail, but failed, however I've seen that one of major Japanese collector got one from this future HOFer by mail ! Many collector would envy his success-haha.

Q. You are a special fan of the Philadelphia Phillies. Why? How are the Phils a specialty in your collection? Who are some of your favorite signatures?

A: Since I did enjoy the 1993 World Series between the Phillies and Blue Jays, this series were my 1st televised MLB games in my life. As far as my collection, the Phils are not special, I've treated all responses alike.

Q: Phillies or not, who are some favorite autographs of yours?

A: I venture to pick some of my favorite signatures: Virgil "Fire" Trucks, Curt Simmons, Roy Sievers, Greg Luzinski, and Harmon Killebrew.

Q: What hobby goals do you have?

A: I just want to keep sending my requests to the U.S. along with my appreciation for this greatest game as long as I am able.

Q:. What advice do you have for other collectors?

A: Well, I would make conventional remarks, " patience" is the most important thing to keep doing this hobby, for instance, I had had to await for getting a response by Vin Scully for 6 years! By the way, Japanese baseball fans enjoy collecting autographs via TTM. That's good for baseball, also hope that more baseball fans in our both countries just enjoy this wonderful hobby in the future.

Thank you, Kohei. And, thanks for reminding us that, no matter who we are, or where we are, baseball is a universal language.

Dick Adams Managed Joe DiMaggio!

2011-11-17T17:15:00.000-06:00

If World War II wasn't incredible enough...

Dick Adams, known as a first sacker with the 1947 Philadelphia Athletics, managed his Army base team. One fellow soldier was none other than Joe DiMaggio.

Adams remembered:

"Yes, I managed Joe DiMaggio in the Army, then played against him in 1947. I was with the Phila A's. He was with the Yankees.

He was a very quiet person. Didn't stay on the Base any longer than he had to. Went to Hollywood a lot. He always had gas tickets and tires."

[The government rationed both in World War II.]

"His baseball skills were VERY GOOD (like always)."

Speaking of Hollywood, Adams has lived a movie-like existence.

First, he lived the major league dream with brother Bobby Adams. Did they talk about playing pro baseball as kids?

"About my brother and me: we went to a tryout camp in Berkeley, Calif. during Easter vacation, 1939. We slept in the car at night, 'cause we never had any $ for hotel rooms, and then we got a $200 bonus for signing (each of us $200).

We thought we were rich. That's when we talked about playing in the Major Leagues. He had a much longer career in the 'show' (14 years) and ended up with the Cubs.

Baseball today is not like it was in my time! Too much $ nowadays. No team play. All 'me, me, me' for $ and long-term contracts."

Although he's been gone from the diamond for decades, Adams never left the keyboard. A professional pianist beginning at age 13, he keeps sharing his musical gifts today.

"I just returned from playing a luncheon for old, bold pilots -- all WWII pilots. Even several German pilots who have become citizens of USA. Quite a nice occasion. By the way, I had four gigs this past week. I still play piano. Big Band music. WWII stuff."

To learn more of Adams in World War II (and his life after baseball) check out the always-fine "Baseball In Wartime."

Coming Friday: Fan and collector Kohei Nirengi, championing America's Pastime in Japan.

Write To Every Charlie Lea NOW

2011-11-16T00:11:00.001-06:00

The website http://www.signedautographed.com/
had this and lots of Leas for $20.40 each.
Through October, he was an easy
sig for two stamps.

Former pitcher Charlie Lea, a Memphis Rebirds broadcaster since 2002, died last week of a heart attack at age 54.

Lea pitched a 1981 no-hitter for the Montreal Expos. He started and won the 1984 All-Star Game.

According to http://www.sportscollectors.net/, the results board logged 119 successes in 134 attempts for Lea. He was signing 88 percent of the time.

When I first began collecting autographs by mail during the Stone Age, veteran collectors suggested I get the old-timers first.

That game plan doesn't always work. Write to your favorites NOW, no matter what the age.

Coming Thursday: Dick Adams, a member of the 1947 Philadelphia Athletics, remembers the team he managed in the Army and a guy named Joe DiMaggio.

Turk Wendell Wins With U.S. Soldiers

2011-11-15T16:58:00.000-06:00

(Photo courtesy Sgt. Kevin Stabinsky)

Turk Wendell, a former major league baseball pitcher, autographs a squishy ball to give out during his visit to Forward Operating Base Kalsu, Oct. 9., 2007. He's made three visits to war zones, and awaits the call to do more on behalf of American troops!

"I am very sorry for your loss."

Turk Wendell wasn't talking baseball. I told him about a hero of mine. My cousin Dustin Yancey, just 22, died in Iraq Nov. 4, 2005. His truck led an Army convoy that couldn't escape a roadside bomb.

I remember his modest Iowa funeral. I expected to see the streets lined for him. I puzzled over the lack of elected officials who were silent on that day. Not even a city councilman made himself known.

No one understood. I was so happy that Turk Wendell did. I told him about Dustin, because the former pitcher has made three trips overseas to show other soldiers they're appreciated. Why?

Wendell replied...

"I was very fortunate to go overseas and witness the war firsthand and see what it is really like, not from the B.S. on the news channels. The troops were so impress that myself and the few other ex-big leaguers would put our lives on the line to boost their morale and take their minds off the war, if only for a moment.

I was so touched, I went back to U.S. and went down to enlist myself. But being cold blind, they would only permit me to obtain certain duties, and I wanted to shoot!

So I figured I would just continue to go over whenever they asked me to.

Three trips later, I feel I did nothing in life by playing baseball. The Armed Forces are the real heroes of the U.S.A. Though baseball is America's game, our Armed Forces should have their own baseball cards!!

Take care and God bless,
Turk Wendell"

Thank you, Turk. Thank you, Dustin.

Coming Wednesday: The message of Charlie Lea

Shades of 'Bull Durham' -- Eavesdropping On An Actual New York Mets Mound Conference Between Turk Wendell and Mike Piazza

2011-11-14T16:45:00.000-06:00

An unheralded storyteller!
Wendell could be our
next BOB UECKER!

I just got an early Christmas present from former pitcher Turk Wendell.
I asked him about the best advice he ever received from a catcher on the mound.

He gave me something better. Before he penned his first sentence completed, I knew he had shared a baseball classic, something worthy of a Seinfeld episode, or a Bull Durham sequel. Wendell wrote:

"Best advice on the mound --

Mike Piazza would always say the same 1 of 2 things when I came into a game. It usually was a crucial point in the game, men on base, close score, and a power hitter up to bat.

I would always ask him, 'Okay, Mike, how we going after this guy?"

His response...

A) 'Let me think about it on the walk back' or

B) 'Just go after him with your good shit!'

I always wanted to say, 'No, I'll just half-ass this one and see what happens!' But never did!

Coming Tuesday: Turk Wendell's serious side.

Dodger Carl Erskine Honors Fans Daily

2011-11-11T10:45:00.000-06:00

Pitch-perfect penmanship,
even in his 80s!

Where have all the Carl Erskines gone?

I don't mean fellow Brooklyn Dodgers. I mean baseball AMBASSADORS. Retired? I don't think so. Every day of the year, he's honoring and thanking fans and collectors.

I asked "Oisk" about his feelings about autographs. Here's his inspiring reply:

"I usually receive eight or ten letters on the average each day. I try to answer right away, because when I can't, they pile up.

I do them all myself and read each one. I consider fans the backbone of the game -- and I consider signing an extension of my career."
Who writes? What do they say in their letters?

"When I read these requests, they range from fans who saw us play, young fans who have read about us, men in prison writing for their own kids -- birthdays, anniversaries, etc.

I just can't throw these requests away."
How can we thank this Dodger hero?
"I was once interviewed by Baseball Collectors Digest. I said I don't charge for signing, but ask they [collectors] help Special Olympics if they/you can. Now, I often get 5 dollars, a check for $10 to $25 to help our local Special Olympics."
Erskine closed with a message to other major leaguers, past and present:
"I'm bothered by players who, or their agents, restrict their signing to make their autograph more valuable.

That's an insult to the fan base that made their autograph sought after.

Carl Erskine"

Coming Monday: What did catcher Mike Piazza tell Turk Wendell when he went to the mound?

Pitcher Turk Wendell Salutes Our Military

2011-11-11T10:22:00.000-06:00

Pitcher. PATRIOT!

Coming soon...

I have an amazing response from pitcher Turk Wendell. While he offered some great baseball insights, his comments on patriotism give us a perfect way to celebrate this Veterans Day.

Although I had squirreled away the whole letter for publication next week, I'm grateful that my wife Diana convinced me that I should share a bit of Turk's inspiration for this holiday.

From Turk Wendell:

"The Armed Forces are the real heroes of the U.S.A. Although baseball is America's game, our Armed forces should be on their own baseball cards!!"

I second that emotion.

Steve Darms Discovers Autograph Karma

2011-11-10T16:50:00.000-06:00

Baseball-Almanac web guru
Sean Holtz has employed
Steve's hobby karma theory,
finding certified autographs
of tough signers who've
fallen from grace. Be sure
to check out Jeremy's BA page!

Move over, "Mendoza Line." Minnie, take a break. One hobbyist has coined a new term:

The Jeremy Hermida Principle.

I loved learning about Steve Darms. He knows that good things come to collectors who wait. Or, he's uncovered the theory of hobby karma. Here's his story:

Q: What are your autograph specialties? Have you 'graphed in person?

A: My collection is all over the place, in all sports. It probably would be easier if I just focused on one team, but I want everybody. It doesn’t matter if they’re the star first baseman, or the pitching coach. The one constant is that 99% of my signed items are on flat items in binders (cards, photos, and team-signed rosters). For the record, my favorite major league team is the Blue Jays, and in our family, we HATE the Yankees…I’ll still get their minor league players to sign, though ;-).

In person, my teams are the Syracuse Chiefs, Auburn Doubledays, Binghamton Mets, and their opponents. (I also do Syracuse Crunch hockey, and Syracuse basketball and football during the baseball off-season). I’ve only been to a handful of major-league games, and haven’t tried to ‘graph there. It’s always easier to just get them in the minors before they become impossible to get. And while I do want to get everyone, I won’t go to the hotel, or come to the park 4 hours before the gates open. I just do regular pre-game and post-game, and if I don’t get certain guys, I can trade with my fellow collectors, or just buy a cert card of them at a show.

That’s always sweet revenge, getting blown off by a player and then finding a cert card in the dollar bin at the next card show. (I think that phenomenon should officially be re-named “The Jeremy Hermida Principle.”)

Q: How long have you collected?

A: My first ever autograph was Bob Feller at a show when I was one, in late 1983. My father got him to sign his 1955 Bowman, personalized to me. When I was a kid, I would bring my program down to the Chiefs dugout at games, because it was something to do. I really didn’t get fully bitten by the autograph bug until the summer of 1998, when Jose Cruz Jr. was on rehab with the Chiefs, and I had a card I really wanted signed. During the game, I realized I’d heard of about half of the players on both teams. That’s when I realized I should be coming for every visiting team too. (I did end up getting Cruz outside after that game.)

Q: What other collectors helped you learn?

A: I think the thing that really influenced my collecting was a letter in the autograph column of Tuff Stuff magazine in the summer of 1999 (I think Ken Griffey Jr was on the cover). A collector had written in, talking about how he mainly collected guys from the minors and other lesser-known players. I believe his last sentence was something like: IF YOU WANT A BIG COLLECTION, REMEMBER THE UNREMEMBERED GUY. That’s what triggered my “need” to try for everyone. If I didn’t have a card (which was often the case), I’d get them to sign the team roster, so I’d have them on SOMEthing. I never understood when other collectors only got the guys they had cards for, even as other players were on the verge of the majors.

Q: Have you had any personal replies in TTM collecting? Notes or letters answering questions?

A: I started doing TTM in 1998, and probably send out an average of 100 requests per year (though with each new year, I keep telling myself I should send out more). I don’t usually ask the guys questions, but have gotten a few notes back, from John “Mule” Miles, Virgil Trucks, Billy Sample, and Bob Watson.

Q: Lastly, do you have hobby goals or projects?

A: I’ve been working on the 1985 Fleer & 1985 Fleer Update sets, and the 1999 Team Best Baseball America set. I’d like to finish those, though there are several deceased players and expensive HOFers still to go in the Fleer set. I guess the only other goal is to just keep getting whoever I encounter, from any sport or area of interest, even though, according to my girlfriend, that makes me an “autograph whore.”

Coming Friday: Don't miss this one, folks: Dodgers pitcher Carl Erskine talks autographs. He shares words guaranteed to make you stand up and cheer!

'10 Most Wanted,' Baltimore Orioles Version

2011-11-09T10:43:00.000-06:00

Garcia was the first-ever
IP signer I met who wanted
to autograph an index
card VERTICALLY!

Here's two reasons to root for the Baltimore Orioles.

Start with Ryan. Talk about a man on a mission. His Great Orioles Autograph Project blog showcases what one focused collector can accomplish. Check him out often. More than 900 men have played for the O's in their six decades. His want list has just five names left!

More than an account of autographs, he's proving that Baltimore will retain at least one fan in its rebuilding.

I confess. I'm toasting those Birds yearly, too.

Why? They made me believe in Bull Durham. I know a real, live Crash Davis character.

His name is Jeff Lantz. For years, he shined as media relations director for the Iowa Cubs. I couldn't help but wonder if he was a lifetime member of triple A ball. If he was a player, he'd have 24 chances of finding a job with a major league club. Fewer jobs and fewer opportunities await a front office warrior.

But, Baltimore saw Jeff's potential. In 2009, the Baltimore Sun blog renamed Jeff "Orioles PR Wizard."

When the team starts winning again, I know two patient guys who deserve the first slices of victory cake.

Meanwhile, I decided to chase some Orioles magic of my own toward my mailbox. Here's the 10 former O's I've contacted:

Kiko Garcia
Larry Harlow
Pitcher Dave Johnson
Scott McGregor
Joe Nolan
Bob Reynolds
Ken Singleton
Billy Smith
Don Stanhouse
Ed Watt

Coming Thursday: Meet collector Steve Darms, who's discovered a new hobby formula!

Homer-Catching Sal Durante Salutes Roger Maris

2011-11-08T17:01:00.000-06:00

Durante's baseball fame continued into 1962.
Check out the Seattle PI website's great vintage
feature about the movie 61*. Durante was hired to
catch a baseball off the Space Needle. See how the
stunt ended, and the major leaguer
included in the World's Fair doings!

Even if you never rooted for the New York Yankees, you've got to cheer for Sal Durante.

In the 50th anniversary celebration of the Roger Maris home run in 2011, Durante participated in the team festivities. The man who caught historic homer #61 could be bitter he never had a memorabilia auction house make him rich. Instead, Durante took every opportunity to salute the man he never stopped admiring.

Durante wrote:

"I met Roger three times when he broke Babe Ruth's record. He told me to keep the ball and make some money.

We met in Sacramento, Calif., in Sam Gordon's Restaurant. I received $5,000 for the ball. Sam gave the ball to Roger as a gift.

When everything was completed, we were leaving the restaurant. Roger reached down, put his hand to mine. He said, 'This is for you.' It was his New York Yankees lighter.

My wife asked the Yankees if it was OK to come to the stadium to take a picture with our 3 yr. old son and my wife. Roger was it would be fine with him. He was a real Gentleman."

Anyone who saw the HBO movie 61* about the historic season may have wondered what Durante thought of being a real character.

"It was exciting being played in the movie 61*. They did a great job."

Lastly, how did Durante feel about the other fan's fame when a certain Yankee captain made more history?

"When Christian Lopez caught Derek Jeter's H.R. for hit #3,000, he chose to give it to Derek. He felt Derek deserved it.

I believe he made the right choice.

Sincerely,
Sal Durante"

Coming Wednesday: My '10 Most Wanted List,' Baltimore Orioles edition

Chuck Estrada's Favorite Autograph Request?

2011-11-07T17:29:00.000-06:00

A 12-year-old collector got a smile and an
autograph from this face!

In February, I wrote about then-PCL pitching coach Chuck Estrada brushing off collectors, challenging them to explain why they wanted HIS autograph.

I was thrilled to hear from Theo Gideon in Tacoma, Washington. His experience asking for an autograph produced a much different, happier result. Theo wrote:

"Around the same time that you encountered Chuck Estrada, I attended the Tacoma Tigers Baseball Camp For Kids. Chuck was a part of the camp staff. My father had in his possession for many years a (Spalding?) Chuck Estrada [endorsed signature model] baseball glove. Upon hearing of Chuck's involvement in the camp, my father asked if I would take the glove to the camp the next day and have Chuck sign it.

As a 12 or so year-old kid, I was embarrassed of my father's request. Grudgingly I pulled the glove out of my bat bag. I explained to Mr. Estrada that my crazy dad had his glove for many years and had even restrung it, and asked if he would sign the glove.

I was amazed to see the Chuck Estrada's face lit up like a Christmas tree. He walked around with the glove showing it off to all of the young Tiger's players and staff members. I believe he said to a group, "You see, there was a time when I was a big deal. Look, I even had my own glove..." He was smiling from ear to ear and carrying that glove around.

Many of the Tacoma players laughed and joked with him about the glove. I wasn't quite sure if he was going to give it back. But he did, and signed it multiple times. I will never forget how happy he seemed, knowing that someone still had his glove. I guess I gave him a good 'why' in my pursuit of his autograph.

My father still has that glove today."

You are an all-star among collectors, Theo. Thanks for sharing!

Coming Tuesday: Golden (anniversary) memories from Sal Durante, the fan who caught the immortal 1961 homer hit by Roger Maris.

Why Giant Phil Nastu Signs Autographs

2011-11-04T00:11:00.001-05:00

Why must we wait for a funeral to say something good about someone? Why not share that compliment when the do-gooder is there to take a bow?

That's what I thought about as I wrote to Phil Nastu. Yesterday, I wrote about his kindness in tracking down a collector named Mike Micho, when the autograph reply never reached the intended party. USPS returned a shredded envelope, identified by Nastu's return address label.

Nastu hunted down Mike on the Internet. He replaced the cards from his own collection, used his own postage and wrote the collector a second time, adding a note of explanation.

I told Nastu how stunned I was, and how I hope everyone will learn about his kindness. He shared these thoughts with me:

"In regard to the ripped card, I just thought if someone took the time to want to get my signature, the least I could do was try and return it.

When I got finished playing, I didn't have many of my cards. But over the years, fans have asked me to sign one card and keep one for myself, which is pretty cool."

Nastu's autograph attiude is amplified by his explanation:

"I was always taught to be respectful to people and would hope to receive it back. It has always been an honor for someone to want my autograph and would never think of charging for it."

Speaking of cards, Nastu relayed this 1979 Topps tale:

"The good and bad: wanted to have a baseball or basketball card since I was a kid. Good news when I was told by Sy Berger at Topps that I was going to be on a card I was thrilled. He then told me even though I had some time in the majors, he had to put me on a prospect card, because they needed to put more position players on. He actually paid me for a full card because he felt bad."

By the way, "Thanks" preceeded Nastu's autograph at the bottom of the page. When's the last time you were thanked for being a collector?

Coming Monday: How a young autograph collector delighted Chuck Estrada.

San Francisco Giant Phil Nastu Wows A Hobbyist

2011-11-03T00:11:00.001-05:00

Nastu has been a faithful
autograph signer for 30-plus years!

Remember Mike "Tiger Nut" Micho? He's shining the spotlight on one of the greatest responses I've ever imagined recorded by a collector.

As first shared on http://www.sportscollectors.net/, Mike relayed this fascinating story:

"Earlier this month I sent 2 cards to former Giants pitcher Phil Nastu. After nearly a month, I wondered if I`d get them back again, as usually he signs and returns cards quickly.Well, what I received back in the mail yesterday just floored me.

It seems Mr. Nastu had signed the cards quickly and had sent them back out a few weeks ago. However, the Postal Service had totally destroyed the envelope (it was ripped in half) and the cards.This pile of waste was returned to Mr. Nastu as he had placed a return address sticker on the envelope.What he did for me was unbelievable!

I received this huge white envelope in the mail yesterday, addressed from him.When I opened it, he had wrote me a short note explaining what happened. It read:

'Michael, I received these cards I signed for you back from the Post Office. They were destroyed, so I replaced them for you. I searched the web for your correct name and address from the letter you sent me. Hopefully, I`ve sent these to the right person, since I couldn`t read the full name. If not, I tried my best. Phil'

I was shocked that he cared enough to replace the cards, search the web for my name and addy, and send everything back to me (including the destroyed cards and envelope).

He is for sure going to receive a Thank You card from me for this one! Thanks so much Mr. Nastu."

I wrote a note of thanks to Phil Nastu, too. Hey, everyone should. When one collector wins, the hobby wins. Amazingly, I found that Mike's story had another side...

Coming Friday: Phil Nastu replies, explaining his amazing kindness.

New Signers Don't Last Forever. Get Your 2012 Baseball Address List From Harvey Now!

2011-11-02T11:52:00.000-05:00

Harvey Meiselman will be celebrating his 17th year of creating sports address lists in 2012.

He started taking orders for the 2012 edition on November 1.

He says he'll be shipping advance orders no later than Jan. 5. Why should you order now?

Easy. I'm sure he'll be shipping in the order the orders are received.

Every year, Harvey discovers new addresses, updates or listings of baseball names who've never been included before (for instance, he'll be adding a section of current and former coaches who've never played in the majors).

These people aren't used to getting mail. Chances are, the novelty of fan mail will keep them signing...for awhile. History shows a newly-found address can dry up. The signer becomes bored, or overwhelmed, with the increased mail. Or, a signing fee becomes the norm.

Get the new addresses as soon as possible. Harvey's still the "go to" guy in this hobby. For more information, check out his website, http://www.sportsaddresslists.com/.

Coming Thursday: The most stunning TTM autograph reply of the 2011 season?

Red Sox Pitcher 'Boo' Ferriss Shares Blessings

2011-11-01T14:13:00.000-05:00

From the 2001
Anniversary Set. Ferriss
keeps amazing collectors!

Boston Red Sox pitcher Dave "Boo" Ferriss hasn't been on the mound in more than 60 years. However, he isn't done thanking collectors and fans.

Even six decades later, he still averages "5 to 7" autograph request letters weekly. I asked him about his devotion to signing.

"If fans think enough of me to sign for them, I think I am obligated to honor their requests. Baseball would be nothing without great fans filling the park."

I wrote to Ferriss to see what collectors could do for him. How could we show our gratitude?

"I'm not seeking paybacks from collectors and fans. I just enjoy knowing about their love of the game.

In the past, some collectors on their own initiative have sent me donations for the support of the Delta State University Baseball Program where I enjoyed coaching 26 years. I got great enjoyment of coaching young men in college baseball, greatly rewarding.

Any such donations should be made to the delta State University Foundation, designated for the baseball program that I am still closely associated with. Gifts should be sent to me and they are tax deductible."

No regrets. No bitterness over what might have been. This is a man filled with joy and gratitude.

"I try to give back to baseball in any way I can, for the game has been good to me and has enriched my life. The game has given me endured friendships and associations that are priceless.

The Lord has blessed me in a tremendous way.

Thanks for your very kind letter.

Best regards,
Boo Ferriss"
Ferriss remains an autograph all-star, still stunning those who write the man awaiting his 90th birthday Dec. 5.

Want to know more about this amazing alum from Fenway Park? Enjoy this fine profile by Rick Cleveland, who captured Ferriss's career and life in book form.

Write Ferriss at
510 Robinson Dr., Cleveland, MS 38732

Thank him for his service during World War II, too. This "Boo" should be celebrated all year long, not just on Halloween.

Would Rogers Hornsby Sign TTM For You?

2011-10-31T10:12:00.000-05:00

I spotted this autographed magazine
page on ebay, offered for $1,234.05.
Would "Rajah" sign more in the
off-season? Hmmm....

"People ask me what I do in winter when there's no baseball. I'll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."

-- Rogers Hornsby

The more I read about "The Rajah," the more he sounds like Billy Martin supersized. Nope, Hornsby would not have been "Miss Congeniality" on most teams. Sample the awesome collection of quotes from the Baseball Almanac website for a great taste (or distaste) of the man.

Many of you have gotten Al Worthington's autograph. When this Christian pitcher protested teammates stealing signs, Hornsby was the first to go to challenge Worthington's manhood in print.

I think many collectors may feel like Hornsby, the first week after the World Series ends.

Hornsby wasn't the easiest autograph to get. However, I'm thinking he may have signed more in the off-season? After all, baseball fans can make any season baseball season (on paper, at least).

Questions I'll be asking retirees in coming letters:

1. Did you play winter ball? Players with minimal MLB stats often sparkled on foreign diamonds. Who did they play with, and against? What was life like living outside the USA?

2. If you didn't play winter ball, where did you work in the off-season? Imagine Joe Garagiola and Yogi Berra working together in Sears in St. Louis. Sound like a TV sitcom, or reality show? It happened! Imagine considering your status as a major leaguer a "part-time job," needing a winter paycheck to provide for your family. Imagine being waited on by a St. Louis Cardinal or New York Yankee!

Make your by-mail plans now. This is the season for signers.

Coming Tuesday: How Red Sox pitcher Boo Ferriss gives back to baseball -- and collectors.

Hall of Famer Bobby Doerr Talks Autographs

2011-10-28T09:43:00.004-05:00

Doerr has been known
to add this free bonus
into many of his replies.
An amazing man!

My admiration for Bob Doerr grows every year.

A Hall of Famer since 1986, he should be a charter member of any Autograph Hall of Fame.

While some mortals complain about trying to send Christmas cards to two dozen people, this 93-year-old baseball icon signs thousands of autographs a year. He keeps thousands of letters a year straight. Sign the ball here. Add your Hall of Fame year. All those requests for inscriptions, pens, whatever. Doerr delivers!

Thankfully, the "Silent Captain" was anything but when I asked him about his feelings about autographs. He replied on his official stationery, complete with the HOF logo and BOB DOERR as letterhead.

Q: How many autograph requests come in the mail weekly? How do you manage?

A: I average between 50 and 100 requests per week. Some days there are 30 or more requests and some days there are only 1 or 2. Very rarely are there days when there aren't any. I do have a person who regularly helps me with the mail. Two people when I split my time between here and the Rogue. I also have family and friends that fill in from time to time.

Q: You've never stopped signing. Other Hall of Famers demand a fee. Or, they just ignore fan mail. Why are you different?

A: I have always enjoyed the fans. Their support and encouragement is inspiring. I also feel that we as players are honor-bound to respond to them. After all, they are the reason we are able to get paid for playing the sport we love.

Q: How can collectors show their thanks? Is there a charity you support that we could help with?

A: As to showing your thanks, I guess the best way to do that is to educate other collectors on good 'request etiquette.' So many either send way too much (I try to limit it to about 4) or they don't send proper postage (etc.) or both.

I hope these answers are helpful to you. Thank you for your interest in time.

The letter is signed "Bob Doerr," with that careful penmanship.

I could read Doerr's words all day:

Fans...inspiring...players...honor-bound...the sport we love.

This man's autograph isn't signed with ink. Doerr's pen is filled with gratitude.

*************************************************

I've never asked before. But now, I'm asking for Bob Doerr.

Doerr never wrote, "Send me money." He never even asked for any of us to donate to charity.

All he wants is more collectors to learn and respect "request etiquette."

Share this post. Tweet. Use any social media. Spread the Hall of Famer's hope. I thank you. I know that this throwback hero would, too.

My '10 Most Wanted,' Phillies Edition

2011-10-27T17:33:00.000-05:00

What happened to the 2011 Phillies?

I was sure this team would win it all this year. That's what prompted me to launch a mailing to nine past Phils. Although none of these men grabbed the headlines that the current crop of players garner, they're starring as TTM signers, according to the http://www.sportscollectors.net/ response board.

Former Phillies who're hearing from me include:

Ramon Aviles
Wes Chamberlain
Larry Christenson
Keith Hughes
Randy Lerch
Len Matuszek
Mike Rogodzinski
Eric Valent
George Vukovich

Instead of choosing a 10th Phillie alum, I wanted Dan Baker. The PA voice of the team since 1972, he's seen the team's highest highs and lowest lows.

Check out the excellent interview with Baker by Joe Vallee at http://www.philly2philly.com/.

Coming Friday: Don't miss this one. Tell your friends. Hall of Famer Bobby Doerr talks autographs!!!

Twins Pitcher Dave Boswell A Yankee?!?

2011-10-26T14:24:00.000-05:00

Today's Boswell's
autograph is tighter.

Minnesota Twins pitcher Dave Boswell could have been neither.

I asked him about joining the Twins, as well as his success at bat. He added a couple of startling tidbits concerning what might have been.

First, I asked how owner Calvin Griffith was upon signing his first contract.

"Tom, tell you what -- I got $15,000 and a new car. It wasn't that hard getting it from Mr. Griffith.

Had the same offer from the Yankees."

I pointed out that the designated hitter rule wasn't suited for pitchers like Boswell. He had 74 career hits, four of them home runs! He replied:

"I signed as a pitcher and outfielder. Loved to play every day."

One explanation for Boswell's mound success, four straight years of double-digit wins (culminating in a 20-win season in 1969) could be Minnesota pitching coach Johnny Sain. How did Sain help?

"John was great at explaining situations to you. All of a sudden, you would find yourself in that position and you knew what to do."

Twins fans, send your thanks to this might-have-been Yankees outfielder now. My reply ended with...

"Been very ill lately. Sorry it took so long.

Dave Boswell"

Coming Thursday: My "10 Most Wanted List" -- Phillies Edition.

How Would Simon Cowell Judge You? Discover The 'X Factor' In Your Baseball Letters

2011-10-25T14:18:00.000-05:00

Imagine a show in which collectors
go before a panel of non-signers.
They bring their cards and
memorabilia, pleading for signatures.
The winner gets the autographs!

Occasionally, I refuse to help a fellow collector. I'm declining what seems like an innocent request.

"What kind of letter do you write?"

I've never furnished a complete text, in fear that a hobby newbie might use the entire letter.

I don't think I own any collecting trade secrets. My worry is that any former player who saved my letter would turn cynical quickly, after seeing my exact words reappear day after day in their mailbox.

There are too many half-hearted signers out there, men who'd like to find an excuse not to give an autograph to you -- or anyone else like you.

Imagine going before Simon Cowell with your letter. Don't hold back. Do your best to make him like your writing.

How?

1. Be personal. Every former player is different. Every letter should be, too.

2. Say WHY. Not why you want AN autograph. Make the case for why you want THEIR signature.

3. Be YOU. Learn from others, but don't copy them. As one crusty high school English teacher warned us, "A whiff of the Cliff (Notes) and you're dead." He wanted a reason to flunk students -- a lack of honesty and originality was a favorite accusation. Some baseball notables want a reason to flunk your letter, too.

Coming Wednesday: Twins pitcher Dave Boswell considers some baseball "what-if's."

Oakland Athletics Broadcaster Lon Simmons Dispels Heart-warming Wikipedia Tale From 1989 World Series

2011-10-24T19:03:00.000-05:00

Bill King

Ken Levine offers
a fine tribute on
his blog!

In college, a journalism professor once said, "If your Mama says she loves you, check it out!"
Meaning? Never stop seeking accuracy.

I peeked at the Lon Simmons Wikipedia entry to start a letter to the broadcaster.

I found a story that seemed too good to be true. To quote:

"At the start of the ninth inning of Game 4 of the 1989 World Series, Athletics' lead announcer Bill King, scheduled to announce the final inning's play-by-play, instead deferred to Simmons, who was thus able to announce to his radio audience three batters later that the A's had won the World Series over Simmons' former team, the Giants."

I wanted to see if Simmons could detail the emotions behind such a gift.

Oops! Shades of journalism class! It seems the tale just might be too good to be true.

Simmons replied:

"I hate to ruin a touching story, but Bill did not turn the mike over to me. It was during the final two games after the earthquake and Bill had throat condition that left him almost speechless so I had to broadcast all of the games."

The moral? Be careful in quoting baseball history to history-makers. Hope that you'll always be writing to a Lon Simmons, someone happy to set the record straight.

My professor would be proud. Or, he'd want you all to pay tuition. Class dismissed!

Giants Broadcaster Russ Hodges Gave Lon Simmons The Birthday Gift Of History in 1960

2011-10-21T16:31:00.000-05:00

Gone are the days of season highlights LPs. The awesome
website http://www.bayarearadio.org/ preserved this one.
To learn more about the two Giants broadcast icons,
start with this sensational site, part of the
California Historical Radio Society!

Lon Simmons not only announced the first-ever San Francisco Giants game, he did it with a legendary voice at his side.

Russ Hodges is remembered for shouting "The Giants Win The Pennant!" after Bobby Thomson's 1951 miracle home run. It seems we should be remembering Mr. Hodges for a whole lot more.
Simmons recalled:

"I was blessed to work with Russ Hodges on the Giants broadcasts from the start in 1958 until he passed in 1972.

He was a great broadcaster and a wonderful friend. Destiny was very special to bring him and major league baseball into my life.

A true story of generosity by a fellow announcer came on my birthday in 1960, when Russ gave me the chance to finish the broadcast as Juan Marichal flirted with a no-hitter in his first major league start. Unfortunately, Clay Dalrymple got a pinch-hit single for the only hit.

Russ said he wanted me to get a chance to announce my first no-hitter and that was his birthday gift to me. No other announcer would ever do that, but it is something I have always remembered and during my later years, was able to give some younger announcers and equal opportunity."

Coming Monday: Lon Simmons shatters a Wikipedia myth.