The New Signer

I have written before about my biggest pet peeve being people who try and exploit players autographs, this blog is about how players are combating that.

What's the easiest way to discourage someone from selling an autograph? Make it worthless. A player doesn't need to damage the card to make it worthless, just add a little more ink. Nothing will devalue a signature like personalization. People looking to turn a profit from autographs will have a difficult time finding a market for personalized autographs, especially if your name is Kirk.

I have heard stories of some older ballplayers notorious for this, giving them a bad rap in the autograph world. I love it. People like Doug Drabek were vilified for not having a "clean" autograph, but I care about the player's signature, not a profit.

In my limited success this spring I have noticed the Orioles pitching staff is all about personalizing their signatures. Jeremy Guthrie, Chris Tillman and David Hernandez all have personalized autographs for me. I am sure these guys are being berated with requests, both in person and TTM, and this is how they can ensure they aren't being exploited.

I am as guilty as anyone of sending multiple cards to have signed, but I am slightly different. I am merely trying to grow my inventory of cards to perpetuate further trade opportunities. If I only receive one signed card back it's cool, one is better than none. Maybe more players will follow their lead and I can get more cards signed, sounds good to me.