MLB Signer Idiosynchrasies

[sreader3]

About nine months ago I started a TTM campaign with 1980s baseball cards I collected as a kid - and it's been a blast. So far, I've got over 1,000 cards signed by over 200 different former players – including some amazing and unexpected returns from tough signers like Chili Davis, Don Mattingly and Matt Williams.

I've found that some guys have rules, like only signing one (e.g. Jimmy Key, Steve Balboni, Will Clark). Others have unconventional habits, like only signing in ballpoint unless you send them a Sharpie (Phil Bradley). That’s all well and good. But the strangest one to me was Howard Bailey, who as far as I can tell always “blacks out” the eyes of Marty Castillo on the 1982 Topps rookie card that they share. I am guessing this is due to Mr. Castillo’s domestic violence issues.

I would be interested in hearing stories about other Major League signer idiosyncrasies that you all have noticed in your TTM endeavors.

[whitehse]

Jim Campanis Jr has a running gag with Brad Ausmas that whoever gets their rookie card first will deface the others face with their autograph.

[sreader3]

Thanks for sharing.

Anyone have an 82 Topps Tigers rookie signed by Bailey where Castillo still has eyes?

[witster]

I'd say Bailey says never forget. Witster