These are some questions that come up often.  To help you, I created a page that will tell you the answer quicker than you can ask it.  Enjoy yourself.

What is the point of making a website such as this one?

Well, Jay and I decided to make this website to help collectors in the autograph industry.  Both of us feel that  our input can help others in thier attempt to obtain autographs.

Hand written or typed?

Athletes prefer hand written letters.  They are more personal and show you care much more.

What are some key elements to include in a letter?

I would have to say include how much you appreciate the work they do or did on a particular team.  Also include any key plays or moments they were a part of.  Thank them for their time.  Remember athletes are not obligated to sign.  It is a privilage not a right.  DO NOT ABUSE IT.  When asking for a signature in the letter, ask kindly as if you were talking to the person in person.  One of the biggest things you must include is a SASE.  A SASE is a Self Addressed Stamp Envelope.  This is essential if you care about the return of your item.  If you are not sure how much postage to include, ask your local post office to weigh it for you.  If you desire, you can write, FRAGILE, DO NOT BEND, PHOTOS, HANDLE WITH CARE, just to name a few.  These phrases go on the envelope alerting the USPS to protect the contents inside.  However, I know from experience that those phrases rarely do much.  You will learn more and better ideas as you progress throughout your mailing years. 

What is my favorite autograph through the mail?

My favorite autograph by mail is for sure Peyton Manning.  I got him during his second year when everybody doubted his true ability and potential.  Getting that card was just the start of what is turning out to be a hectic hobby.  Jay's might have to be his recently obtained Champ Bailey sig. (12/04).  Getting your favorite player always makes it sweeter than say, Brian Rose.  There I go again, messing with my boy BRose (lo siento).

Where is the best place to obtain accurate addresses?

We have come to realize that the best place to obtain accurate team and home addresses is the Sports Collectors Website.  Anyone with an email address can apply for a basic membership, which entitles you to limited access.  If you want the Premium membership you pay $10.99, which gets you unlimited access for the site.  You can also get team addresses from teams individual websites. 

How can I locate and find information about minor league players?

I use a few sites to locate minor leaguers.  The first is Minor League Baseball.  This site will tell you every minor league teams roster and will also give you the official team site.  Another site that is simailar to that one is Major League Baseball.  On the official MLB site you can get the minor league affiliates roster of each MLB team.  The next site is Baseball America.  This site includes minor league stats, picturs, articles, and other information.  Lastly, Top Prospect Alert includes scouting reports and more in deapth info on a "up and comer."  Another great resource is Gameday Rosters, which will inform you about everything from MLB to rookie ball to independant leagues.

What is the best way to send cards?

I use many methods.  Below is my main method.  I use a razor blade and cut a hole big enough to fit a large sig in a page.  I cut the 9-card page in thirds (width ways).  I then tape it to a cardboard backing to give it support and so it is not so flemsy.  It is easy for the person to sign and put it back in the envelope.  They don't have to take them out and put them back in.  I find this way very effective.

Do I have to include a sharpie?

Never include a sharpie unless you are sending a package and you want it in a certain color or you are send something with a dark backround and want the sig. to be visable (ex. send a silver or gold sharpie with a black bat).