This is seriously one of the greatest fan letters that I recall reading...
Superfan Stephen Winsten, a transplant from NYC, took the time to write a (somewhat colorful- LOL
) account of what he noticed about Nolan Ryan's pitching struggles as a NY Met and how to groom him to be the star that he certainly would be. The letter was sent to California GM Harry Dalton immediately after the Angels got him in a trade that sent SS Jim Fregosi (RIP) to the NY Mets
Dalton read the letter, seemed to see merit in some of Winsten's observations and forwarded copies of the letter to Pitching Coach Tom Morgan and Angels Manager in 1972 Del Rice.
Letter originated from the Angels file on Nolan Ryan.
Tom Morgan is credited with turning Nolan's career around along with catcher Jeff Torborg (Ryan's 1st no-hitter). Winsten's guidance was actually based on pretty solid scouting for a fan, and this letter undoubtedly helped Tom Morgan develop a plan for harnessing Nolan's undeniable talent. I personally would give Steve Winsten an A+ for his wisdom.
