If you are a collector of Phillies autographs, your attention should be focused on the next generation of players. While many of us have spent (or would spend) a lot of money for an established star like Chase Utley sign a ball, the savvy collector sent him one in 2004, when he routinely signed through-the-mail (TTM) for free.
It is a tactic as old as time: identify the next star and have them sign something for you…before everyone else is asking, too. Though, it can be hit-or-miss (see: Pat Combs, or Mickey Morandini in the late-80s), when you hit, you can hit really big. A quick check of Sports Collectors Net's archives shows that in addition to Utley, Ryan Howard, Jimmy Rollins and Carlos Ruiz all used to sign TTM in the mid-2000s. Even, surly Cliff Lee was known to honor an autograph request until his trade to the Phillies in 2009.
Instead of mourning the lost opportunities, collectors should seek new ones. Last year I sought the signatures of a few guys with a potential upside, and scored with former top prospect Trevor May, Justin DeFratus and Phillipe Aumont. And, over the past few weeks I have received successful replies from two future-Phillies, Tommy Joseph and Darin Ruf.
Keep an eye out for in-person opportunities, too. Many "stars of tomorrow" will be signing at events over the next few months, starting with prospect Cody Asche, who is signing for $15 in Lancaster next weekend. Attending minor league games can yield a lot of success, especially for children. Even the upcoming Phillies Phestival will feature booths with Aumont and sometimes leftfielder Freddy Galvis.
Now is the time to look toward the future. Do yourself a favor and get these guys while you still can…
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