SOLD Price cuts and last chance on Walter Johnson letters from umps McGowan and Evans

[Hankphenom]

1) $575 shipped. Wonderful content in this "pre-rookie" letter to Walter Johnson from Hall of Fame umpire Bill McGowan, dated Oct 9, 1924, in which he laments Johnson's losses in his first two appearances in the ongoing World Series between the Senators and Giants while simultaneously asking the Big Train for a signed photograph. Upon penning this heartfelt and touching missive, how could McGowan know that the very next day would become the most glorious of all in the great pitcher's long and illustrious career? The following spring the "bush league" umpire, as he signed this letter, would join the American League for the start of his 30 years behind the plate in the major leagues.

"Mr. Walter Johnson, Washington Baseball Club, Washington, D.C.
Dear Walter,
Having had the honor of umpiring several games that you pitched on the spring training trip, and also the pleasure of several nice chats you, am going to ask a special favor. Would greatly appreciate an autographed photo from you, using my name on same.
Am enclosing one of my first attempts at newspaper stories, and regret that I am unable to express in words my high regard for you. It hurt me to the heart to learn of you losing in the World series. Honestly If felt like I had lost my best friend. I of course am only one of one hundred and ten million Americans that felt that way.
I sincerely hope you will not say good-bye to base ball for few more years. I hope your good old souper will last for fifty more years, and that I may again have the honor of calling balls and strikes behind the plate for the greatest arm that ever threw a strike.
After you are settled down with your folks, I would thank you a million times for a photograph.
A million good wishes to you and yours, hoping you will not make a waste ball of my letter, I am
yours very respectfully, Bill McGowan, A bush league umpire."

Letter measures 8&1/2x11 and has moderate age toning and scrapbook residue on the reverse. Overall in very good condition. LOA from JSA and letter of provenance from Henry W. Thomas, Johnson's grandson and biographer.

2) $425 shipped. Letter of October 24, 1928, from Hall of Fame umpire Billy Evans on Cleveland Indians stationery and in his historic capacity as the first designated general manager in major league baseball, congratulating Walter Johnson, just announced as the new manager of the Washington ball club. Five years later Evans, who was behind the plate for the Big Train's first major league game in 1907 and again for his 20th anniversary game in 1927, would hire Johnson to manage Cleveland.

"Mr. Walter Johnson c/o Washington AL Baseball Club, Washington, D.C.
Dear Walter,
Just returned from a short vacation and am taking this first opportunity to extend to you my heartiest congratulations and best wishes on your appointment as Manager of the Washington Club. I hated to see you leave the ranks of the American League and, naturally, am pleased to welcome you back again. If Cleveland cannot win the pennant, Washington under your direction has my best wishes.
With Kindest personal regards.
Very sincerely, "Billy" Evans, General Manager"

Letter is 8&1/2x11, very light age toning and scrapbook residue on the back. Overall in excellent condition. LOA from JSA and letter of provenance from Henry W. Thomas, Johnson's grandson and biographer.

Both letters for $900. Checks and PayPal (if you want to pay the 4% they charge me), will mail according to your requirements.

[Hankphenom]

Bump.