Phillies TTM: Who's Signing

Figured it would be a good time to check in on some recently reported Phillies TTM successes...

Greg Luzinski

Greg Luzinski autographed ball

Greg Luzinski autographed ball

The Bull, a solid TTM signer over the years, went under cover for a few weeks as requests to his primary residential address regularly came back RTS.  Looks like there is a new address to send requests to during the off-season.  Of course, you can always wait until next baseball season and either see him or send to him at Citizens Bank Park. 

25100 Ridge Oak Drive Bonita Springs, FL 34134 

Roy Sievers

Roy Sievers autograph 1964 photo

Roy Sievers autograph 1964 photo

If there were a TTM Hall of Fame, Roy Sievers would surely get elected.  Though his responses are a little slower these days, this old-timer is a guaranteed success.  I have personally sent to Mr. Sievers a few times - and have the signed ball and photo displayed to prove it!  My favorite response was a hand-written note commenting on his playing days in Philly.

11505 Bellafontaine Road Spanish Lake, MO 63138 

 

 

 

 

Ryne Sandberg

The Phils skipper has provided fans with signed photo cards since joining the team last Spring.  He will not sign the item you send, but requesters to receive a good signature back (as opposed to the standard pre-print the team likes to send out).  This was Charlie Manuel's policy his last two years, as well.  Collecting either Phillies or Hall of Famers?  Might want to give Ryno a shot... 

c/o Philadelphia Phillies, Citizens Bank Park  1 Citizens Bank Way, Philadelphia, PA 19148 

Ryne Sandberg autographed Phillies photo card 

Ryne Sandberg autographed Phillies photo card

 

Check out more TTM address for the Phillies, Eagles and Flyers here on The Phillies Collector...

 

 

Veterans Stadium Seat Tree Ornaments

Vet Stadium Seat Ornament

Vet Stadium Seat Ornament

While browsing the internet yesterday, I stumbled across a very cool Veterans Stadium-themed collectible: Vet Stadium seat Christmas ornaments.  

Growing up going to Phillies and Eagles games at The Vet during the late-80s/early-90s, made me love the place.  I would often defend it to outsiders as "a dump (yes), but our dump."   And when they started selling it off during the Winter of 2003, I was first in line to pick up a pair of blue seats.  Since then I have bought a few pieces here and there - always on the lookout for new additions.  What I've learned is it doesn't have to be expensive to be a quality collectible.

These blue, Vet Stadium seat ornaments offered by Cardz and Starz (Vineland, NJ) approximately measure 2"x2"have all the makings of a good value pickup.  At a price of three ornaments for $15, you could buy a set and split them up as nice holiday gifts for other Philly sports fans - or keep them all for yourself (guilt free).  One thing is sure, you won't find too many others who have this decoration adorning their tree.

Purchasing details:

  • Three (3) ornaments for $15 (Free shipping) 
  • Order by emailing: esherban@yahoo.com
  • They also have a limited number of Camden Yards and Busch Stadium seat ornaments available
  • PayPal payment is being accepted, as well check or money order. *Note: If paying by PayPal, you will be charged $2 additional for processing.

 

 

 

 

Hunt Auctions - November Live Auction Preview

Online bidding for Hunt Auctions', 10th Annual Louisville Slugger Museum Live Auction ends tomorrow night.  The marquee lots have been reserved for Hall of Famer, Bill Mazeroski's personal collection, but as with previous editions, this year's event puts many desirable Phillies-themed items on the block.  I have already shared a few on Facebook this week, but here are a couple more to keep your eye on... 

Carlos Ruiz, 2010 Alternate Home Jersey

Game Used Carlos Ruiz Jersey

Game Used Carlos Ruiz Jersey

This is an underperforming beauty.  I'm not sure whether it is Ruiz's tenuous standing as a Phillie, or if the shine has truly rubbed off this former All Star, but there doesn't seem to be much interest in this log, to-date.  At this point, it would take a lot for the jersey to climb back into the pre-auction range of $400-600.  To be fair, it was probably a stretch to begin with...

Current bid: $138

Link to the lot

 

1964 Phillies Pin Display

"Go!  Phillies Go!"

As a collector of 1964 Phillies I've been familiar with these pins for years - often seeing them at flea markets or card shows.  The bold, blue font screaming 1960s camp, and of course, the classic logo make it a very desirable (and, low-cost) collectible. What makes pieces like this so attractive is the fact that they aren't supposed to be around anymore.  This cardboard store display would look great in any 1960s-era collection. 

Current bid:  $80

Link to the lot

1964 Phillies Pin Store Display

1964 Phillies Pin Store Display

Bobby Wine, 1980 Game Uniform

Bobby Wine, 1980 Game Uniform

Bobby Wine, 1980 Road Uniform

Maz isn't the only former player to be in the mood to clean out his closet - joining him is long time Phillie, Bobby Wine, whose own personal collection is up for bid.  There are several items from "The Wine Collection" worth mentioning, but I chose this one because of the significance the uniform has to the Phillies' 1980 Championship season.  The deep blue of this "powder blue" uniform would look awesome on display, and is still well within the pre-auction range $1,500-2000.  Some lucky collector may get a deal out of it...

Current Bid: $720

Link to the lot

November Phanatic of the Month Bobble Head

November Phanatic of the Month Bobble Head (via @DrBobblesWorld) 

November Phanatic of the Month Bobble Head (via @DrBobblesWorld) 

In what is becoming a monthly phenomenon, the November Phanatic of the Month was released to a frenzied crowd last Friday morning.  And once again, the oversized bobble heads were sold out on the first day! It is getting harder and harder to remember those early Spring months when they were available for a week (or more)...

The "William Bradford" Phanatic, shows the mascot dressed in traditional Pilgrim wear, complete with a Phillies-logo traveler's hat.  While it is not surprising that the Phanatic is shown eating a turkey - it did make me laugh that "a live" Tom is watching him from behind (better watch out little buddy, you may be next!).  Move over cornucopia, a new Thanksgiving Day centerpiece is here!

Success! Finally, an AFL TTM Return...

Ken Giles signed photo

Ken Giles signed photo

Last month I wrote about the endless opportunities that the Arizona Fall League affords TTMers.  Shortly after publishing the post I sent requests out to several Phillies minor leaguers prospects participating in the League.  

With AFL play winding down, and no returns to my name, I had just about written this year off as a loss.  All that changed today as I finally logged my first success - fireballer, Ken Giles.   Though he is not widely included in Phillies top prospect lists, Giles opened a lot of eyes this Fall - much like Cody Asche did last year...

Weekend Show Report

The Phillies Collector booth at the Granite Run Mall

The Phillies Collector booth at the Granite Run Mall

 

Where to begin? 

Well, it's been a busy seven days as I have worked toward launching the new site.  Although it's been a work-in-progress over the past month or so, I was under the gun to have "the new, and improved" Phillies Collector site looking good for the big "relaunch" on Saturday.  

The Poppel Show was a big day for me - and for the first time, put me on the other side of the table, as a vendor.  I was there to promote The Phillies Collector site, and the services it offers: A listing of upcoming Philly sports signings, an ever-growing list of TTM addresses and of course, the blog.  I was pleased to meet so many current readers, and a number of potential new ones, too.

Though much of my time was spent behind the table, it wasn't all work on Saturday.  I also had an opportunity to add to a few current autograph projects, too... 

Dave Hollins - 1993 Team Ball

1993 Phillies Team Ball

1993 Phillies Team Ball

 

Though he has been away for a year, or two, Hollins is no stranger to the Poppel Show.  Previously I had him sign my 1993 team poster, and the championship celebration photo.  I would have had him sign the team ball, too - but I forgot it at home!  I didn't leave it this time, and asked him to squeeze a signature in under Pete Incaviglia.

 

Mitch Williams - 1993 Team Celebration Photo

This is one of my favorite autograph projects.  If you remember back a few months, I really filled it out during Alumni Weekend.  Mitchy Poo's autograph was a little "fatter" than I would have hoped for - but, didn't bring my own silver pen, and was at the mercy of the promoter.  Immediately after signing it, Williams threw the pen over his shoulder and said, "We need another one!" 

 

Pedro Feliz - 2009 World Series Team Ball

2009 Phillies Team Ball

2009 Phillies Team Ball

I didn't pony up to add Brett Myers to my 2008 ball, and though I thought it was overpriced, figured I should take the opportunity to add Feliz to my 2009 ball.  I haven't focused as much attention on this ball recently, but Pedro was a key player, and I would have eventually paid for him somewhere along the line... 

 

 

2013 Topps Update: Phillies Set Review

Kevin Frandsen - 2013 Topps Update

Thought I would take a few minutes to add some commentary on the recent 2013 Topps Update release.  This post will focus on the 10-card Phillies base set.

General Details:

  • Parallels include: Emerald Foil (1:6 hobby packs), Gold (#/2013), Camo (#/99), Black (#/62), Pink (#/50), Printing Plates and Platinum (1/1) 
  • Sapphire foil parallels are included for Series 1, 2 and Update
  • Silk Collection inserts show up again in jumbo and hobby packs - each one #/50. Phillies inclusions are: Delmon Young, Laynce Nix, Michael Young, Mike Adams.

Good:

Jonathan Pettibone - 2013 Topps Update
Emerald Foil Parallel

  • The Phillies used a lot of young guys this season, so there were many options for Rookie Card inclusions.  It would have been nice to see a Cesar Hernandez, or Ethan Martin in there - but, I'm cool with Asche and Pettibone.  
  • I liked seeing Kevin Frandsen in the checklist.  He's definitely not a big name, but how can you root for him?  


Bad:
These are much more fun to talk about (guess it says something about me on a deeper level, huh?)...

  • I am really disappointed to see Delmon Young and Laynce Nix included in the release.  Not only are they taking up room in the team set - but, they are also inexplicibly part of the 100-card "Silk Collection."
  • Where's the love for Freddy Galvis?  If there is any obvious omission, it has to be Galvis who played in half of the Phillies' games and contributed a few memorable moments (in a very forgettable season).
Laynce Nix - 2013 Topps Update


Base Set Checklist:
US30 - Mike Adams
US58 - Kevin Frandsen
US71 - Cody Asche
US90 - Michael Young
US156 - Laynce Nix
US188 - Cliff Lee (All Star)
US242 - Delmon Young
US280 - John Lannan
US281 - Jonathan Pettibone
US309 - Domonic Brown (All Star)

Recent Addition: 1960s-era Souvenir Helmet


1960s-era Phillies Souvenir Helmet


A few weeks ago I bought an "old looking" souvenir helmet on eBay.  It was a more than I usually like to spend on there, but beyond the red plastic shell, it does not look like any other I have previously seen.  It looked 1960-ish, and I had to have it!

Notable features of the helmet:

  • Foam headband; I was really impressed at the condition of the foam - no dry rot whatsoever.
  • "Old-Styled" Logo sticker with red background
  • Engraving on the back, inside: Sports Products P.O. Box 18062 Clev. O, 44118
 You can't be an expert on everything - so, as I often do when I don't have the answer, I took to the internet and found a great resource on souvenir helmets: MLB Souvenir Helmets.  The site has an extensive inventory of all types of helmets, for Major League teams throughout history, including the Phillies.  From the information there, my helmet is from (a rather broad band) 1955-1969...pretty cool.

Interior of the helmet


Schmidt to Mohegan Sun: I'm Outta Here!

Phillies HOFer, Mike Schmidt

Bad puns aside, Phillies Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt cancelled his weekend appearance at the Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs due to a personal conflict, according to the Casino's website.  Until Friday, Schmidt was to be a guest of honor at the Breeder's Crown - an harness racing event which featured twelve championship races.  NFL Hall of Famer, Thurman Thomas filled in.

Fear not Phillies fans.  Michael Jack has rescheduled, and will now appear at Pocono Downs from 4-6 P.M. on Saturday, November 23rd - where he will sign FREE, "authorized photos."  Fans can begin lining up at 2 P.M.  And, it should be noted: no outside items will be signed.

Prospecting the Arizona Fall League



It's October, and that means it's time for the Arizona Fall League.  Through mid-November, some of Major League Baseball's top prospects will be playing each other in towns such as Glendale, Scottsdale and Mesa.  Take a look at the league rosters over the past few years, and you'll see the names of the most exciting young talent in MLB.  This season is no less interesting...

Off the field, the AFL is also a great opportunity for autograph collectors to acquire signatures from potential, future stars.  If you live in the southwest, then I recommend attending a few games in person.  However, for those of us who live back here in the Delaware Valley, the U.S. Mail is your way into the fun.  In the past I've had success with Phillies prospects like Darin Ruf, Jake Diekman - Cody Asche and Tommy Joseph last season.  I am hoping to add a few more "future Phils" this year, too.

If you are in interested in trying your luck, here is information you need:

Peoria Stadium
16101 N. 83rd Avenue
Peoria, AZ 85382

Phillies Prospects on the 2013 Peoria Javelinas roster:

Aaron Altherr
Ken Giles
Mike Nesseth
Cameron Perkins
Cameron Rupp
Kyle Simon
Austin Wright

Also, former Phillie, Tim Worrell - Pitching Coach

Phillies TTM - Who's Signing

I've checked the SCN logs and here are some interesting names from Phillies seasons past who are signing autographs through the mail...

Mike Proly -

Mike Proly Autographed Ball

Younger collectors may be scratching their heads thinking: "Who?"  OK, so even some of the older ones are wondering that, too.  Proly was your classic swing man, appearing in 35 games for the Phils in 1981 - logging 63 innings pitched, two starts, and finishing nine games (with two saves).  While he's definitely not a big name, he would be a nice addition to any 1981 team projects you are working on.  With a 95% success rate, he's a sure bet.

112 Country Mist Dr Greer SC 29651


Jamie Moyer - 

Jamie Moyer Signed Photo

As many of you have probably heard, Moyer is in the midst of a national tour promoting his new book, "Just Tell Me I Can't."  But, somehow the ageless pitcher continues to find time to reply to TTM requests.  There are only a handful of 2008 Phillies who will sign through the mail, so don't miss your opportunity.

2426 32nd Ave W Seattle WA 98199


Billy Wagner - 

Billy Wagner Autographed Ball

Alright, if the first two signers are automatic, this one is a complete shot in the dark - but, sometimes those are the most fun successes.  A success with a six-day turnaround was reported for Wagner this past week - one of seven reported over the past month.  Don't let this recent history fool you - with a 48% overall success rate, it's still a 50/50 chance you'll get your item back signed...

5066 Jones Mill Road Crozel, VA 22932

October "Phanatic of the Month" - SOLD OUT

October, "Phanatic of the Month" bobble
(via @DrBobblesWorld)

October kinda snuck up on me - I'm three days late on the new Phanatic of the Month bobble head (sorry).  

We're now eight months into the promised, 12-months of new Phanatic bobble heads, and the figurines could not be hotter.  This month's offering sold out their first day on the shelves - and those available on ebay have been scooped up quickly in the time since.  The release date has become a legitimate monthly "event".

With a nod to Halloween, the October bobble head features the Phillie Phanatic dressed up as a vampire - Dracula Phanatic, if you will. The overall design this month is much better than the September bobble - and would likely rank as one of the top two or three released to date.  Cool details built into the October release are: the light-up Phillies jack-o-lantern, and a pair of "bobbing" bats flying closely over the Phanatic's right shoulder.

September 2013 Philly Show Recap

Ah, what to say?  I had good intentions of going to the Philly Show, buying a bunch of stuff and writing a long post about the best show in years.  Unfortunately, the Convention Center floor was kinda dead - and beyond a couple good autograph experiences, there isn't too much to report, so I'll focus attention there...


Lenny Dykstra


Lenny Dykstra on the
1993 Phillies poster


I was anxious to see The Dude.  As I mentioned in my last post, his previous Philly Show appearance was an eye opening event.  At that point stories of his problems had already surfaced, including some from that very weekend when he was accused of trashing his Philadelphia hotel room, and walking out on a dinner check.  As a huge fan of his during the 90s, it was difficult to see.

This appearance could not have been different - I was immediately met by Dykstra thrusting his right hand forward for a handshake, and a making a very clear statement, "Thanks for coming."  I brought my 1993 team poster for him to sign.  As far as 1993 goes, there is probably no bigger piece to the project - and I wasn't sure if I would get to add him any time soon.  I was happy to add this autograph.

We've all had down times, and I've got to give much credit to anyone who admits their mistakes and tries to improve themselves.  I know there are many of people who will not give Lenny a second (or third) chance - but, he's good with me.  There is no bigger fan of a comeback than me, hopefully this is the beginning of another one for #4.

Dick Allen


Dick Allen - 1964 Bulletin Pictures


As polarizing as Lenny Dykstra is - has there ever been a more controversial figure in the history of Phillies baseball than Dick Allen?  I'm way too young to have ever seen Allen play - but, I was raised on stories of his 40 oz. bat, and home runs soaring over the roof of Connie Mack Stadium.  My dad was a big fan of Allen's and always painted him in the positive light.  Of course, there were the other stories - he was chronically late for games, his fight with Frank Thomas and that "mysterious" injury in 1967.  Both sides of the argument have always been well-represented.

I know Allen has long made amends with Philadelphia, and its baseball fans - but, on Saturday, I couldn't help but wonder what the former slugger was thinking as a line of middle-aged (plus) white men waited for him to sign his name.  I pictured his critics standing close by, fascinated to see the interactions as one fan after another approached his table.  They would display the look of the Grinch on Christmas morning, when he realizes he was wrong about the meaning of the holiday: Each was greeted warmly...There was no hint of irritation at having to sign cards that bore the name, "Richie Allen"...And, he didn't mind reminiscing about his first tour of duty in Philly...???




Even though the price was a little more than I am used to paying for autographs - it was an opportunity I couldn't pass up.  I was very excited to finally get his 1964 Bulletin pictures signed.  I've been plugging away on both sets for a few years - and he is hands-down one of the most important members of the project.

My September Philly Show Agenda

The September 2013 Philadelphia Sportscard and Memorabilia Show (a.k.a. - The Philly Show) started today at the Valley Forge Casino Resort.  Much of the summer was clouded with doubt that there would actually be a show this Fall - the signers link on the show's page was defunct, and MAB no longer listed the show on their upcoming events page.  Eventually we came to understand that appearances would be handed by Sports Vault going forward - and soon after, signers were announced.

Here are a few things on my mind heading into the weekend:

Autographs:
At the show I am looking forward to meeting Phillies legend Dick Allen.  I have been working on putting together a set of 1964 Phillies sketchings from the Bulletin.  So far I have 19 of the clippings signed (mostly acquired via TTM), and this is my opportunity to the biggest name missing.  

Also appearing is the infamous Lenny Dykstra.  The last time I saw him was a real eye-opener for me.  I know a lot of people have opinions about him, but I've separated the man from the player - and honestly, hope he'll find his way from here on out.  I'll be having him sign my 1993 World Series poster.  He's the biggest figure on it, so there is a huge hole to fill...

What I'm looking for:

  • Interesting pieces related to the 1950 Phillies.  I haven't been able to add any signed 1950 Inquirer clippings for a while now.  It would be great to find someone like Andy Seminick.
  • 1970s oddballs.  Top on my list would be Mike Schmidt from the 1975 Mengler set.  But, I'm always in the market for something interesting.
  • Deals!  Last show I went on the third day and found some dealers willing to negotiate on prices.  I'll be heading back on Saturday, but will be looking to broker some good will again...
If you're going, message me on Facebook, or Twitter.  Always great to connect with "internet friends"...

Fan Appreciation Day Giveaways

Well, yesterday marked the end of the Phillies 81 game home schedule.  I

Cole Hamels Bobble Head



It was a surprise when the gate attendant handed me two Cole Hamels bobble heads upon entering Citizens Bank Park.  The Phillies didn't promote this giveaway, so it was completely out of left field.  From interactions on Twitter and Facebook, I found that most gates were only handing them out to fans 14 years and younger.  Guess I was lucky on this one...

Fan Appreciation Post Card Set



The nine-card set has become a Fan Appreciation Day standard over the past few years.  Highlights were (kinda) hard to come by this season, but they managed to squeeze out a few memorable plays/moments along the way.  Here is the card listing:

  • "2013 Fan Appreciation Day" - player collage
  • "Alumni Weekend" - collage from the 1993 NL Champions reunion
  • "Brown Delivers" - Domonic Brown
  • "All Star" - Cliff Lee
  • "The Walk-Off" - Freddy Galvis, home plate celebration of his May 19th game winning homer
  • "Doc's 200th Win" - Roy Halladay
  • "The Kids" - collage of Cody Asche, Darin Ruf and Jake Diekman
  • "The Catch" - Ben Revere's fantastic catch in Cincinnati 
  • "Teammates" - Chase Utley and Jimmy Rollins


Schedule Magnet



This has long been one of my least favorite annual promotions.  Yes, it's a necessity - and a decent tool for marketing next seasons schedule - but, still it's pretty boring.  Bonus with this year's offering is that the outer edge can be separated from the schedule to create a magnetic frame...now, that's something we could (maybe) use...

End of Season Memorabilia Sales at CBP

Papelbon shirsey 75% off -
is it a sign?

As the season winds down, one bright spot has been the price reductions on select Phillies memorabilia at the Citizens Bank Park Majestic Store.  Before last night's game I took a spin through the store found a number of hats, shirts and this year's CBP Exclusive bobble heads were on sale (as much as 75% off!).  I couldn't pass up the $6.75 bobble heads - bought a few for my son as birthday and Christmas gifts...

If you go to the game this week, make sure to stop by either the Majestic Store, or "the sale tent" at Section 114 to take advantage of the deals...

2013 CBP Exclusive Bobbles at $6.75!

Phillies TTM: Week of 9/2/2013

Finally got a couple responses that would allow for a new post on my personal Phillies TTM successes.    As I mentioned last week, I have not bee overly active the past month or so, but hope to get back into a more regular mailing pattern soon.  Despite my mail lady's recent light load, I did manage to fit in two successes last week...

Bob Boone - 



I'm not sure whether or not this can be counted as a success, but I response is a response.  I originally bought this game-used bat card on ebay with the thought that I could then send it to Boone to be signed.

When I got the card I was a little disappointed that the picture had him in a Kansas City Royals uniform, something I hadn't taken note to when bidding.  Long story short, this was out for 4-5 months and came back with a personal correction from the ex-catcher himself...Oops.

Bob Kuzava - 



I have scratched my way to 12 successes on the 1950s-era Phillies project.  Kuzava was only with the Phillies for one season (1955), but according to his Wikipedia page, he was an important part of Yankees history, closing out both the 1951 and 1952 World Series for the Bombers.

A big part of the fun with this particular project is finding out about the careers of guys like Kuzava.  Before researching his playing days for my letter, I was aware of his name but knew little of his accomplishments.  Can't wait to see who I learn about next...

Chase Utley Turn Back the Clock Gear Up For Bid!

Phillies, 2013 TBTC Game Used Display

When the Phillies Authentics team released their inventory from the August 23rd, Turn Back the Clock game, one player's gear was noticeably missing: Chase Utley.  While at CBP earlier this weekend I saw a display with the missing gear at the Authentics Stand.  It turns out the uniform is the centerpiece of an online auction that ends tonight.  Here are a few highlights:


Chase Utley, TBTC Game Hat:
Comments:
I have become a small collector of game-used hats, and can really appreciate this lot.  I like collecting hats because they are generally much cheaper than jerseys, and take up less room.  These TBTC hats might just be the exception.  The team sold hats used by starter Cole Hamels and shortstop Jimmy Rollins for $199, so this Utley auction is running a little higher than retail.

# of bids: 15
Current high bid: $261
Link to bid

Chase Utley, TBTC Game Uniform:
Comments:
The Phillies did something cool with the uniforms from this game.  Instead of selling only the jersey, they offered the complete uniform: jersey and pants.  Very cool item to have, but like the hat, it is currently $400 over retail for other "like" players.

# of bids: 23
Current high bid: $1,360
Link to bid

Chase Utley, TBTC Game Helmet:
Comments:
Since Chase won the game with that dramatic bases loaded walk, this helmet is a pretty nice piece - as related to significance with the TBTC game.

# of bids: 19
Current high bid: $651
Link to bid

Check out all the Phillies Authentics auction items here.

School's In: September Phanatic of the Month

September Phanatic of the Month

"School bells are ringing loud and clear; vacation is over, school is here."  One stanza from Winifred C. Marshall's poem, "School", sums up this month's Phanatic of the Month.

Again positioned on the gold, Phanatic head base, the figurine depicts the Phanatic as a teacher, evidently giving a lesson on his home island, Galapagos.  As with previous month's offerings, the September bobble head is not lacking in detail.  Included are text on the pages of the Phanatic's book and blackboard, and a worm peeking from the apple on his desk.  Overall, it's a pretty solid design - though, it's not my favorite to date (in fact, probably one of my least favorite).  Either way, like those before it, the September Phanatic of the Month was a hot seller...