Return envelopes? Hurler Mike Caldwell pitches possible SASE solution

“I like to taste food, not glue.”

— Pitcher Mike Caldwell

Caldwell’s Facebook memo to collectors has appeared on www.sportscollectors.net and throughout hobby forums. He brought up great suggestions. Caldwell has reasonable rules for TTM autographs. 

Besides, anyone who’ll keep signing for free, stating out loud that collectors don’t need to enclose money, should be given extra attention.

One request that caught my eye first was Caldwell’s wish that collectors stop using envelopes you have to lick. 

Don’t forget that www.baseball-almanac has a huge collection of autographs. Each signature is displayed on each player’s personal page.

My first concern was the empty envelope. Anyone who’s gotten an empty SASE knows that special disappointment. What might have been inside? 

Did someone not get the memo on how a self-sealing envelope works?

Sure, the self-seal SASE will be more expensive. But, once it is sealed, it stays sealed.

If you want to try self-seal envelopes, consider adding a sentence at the end of a letter. Something like: “I’m grateful and eager to have your autograph. In fact, I’ve enclosed a special envelope for your reply. Just remove the paper strip, and your signature will be safely on its way!”

Readers, please let me know what type of envelope you prefer using. Have you had problems with the other kind of envelope?

 

 

Instead of sending money with your TTM request, try this:

addressLabels

I have saved hand-written return address “autographs” for years.

I was touched to think that a retiree is so concerned about my cards that he wants them back, in case my address on the SASE does not work. (Think Virgil Trucks!)

I note how faithful the oldest ex-players are. They sign their names, then add their full addresses.

Sure, five bucks is kind. However, someone age 80 may appreciate some adhesive labels.

Print out a sheet on your computer to include. Whether ordered or homemade, the labels don’t have to be baseball themed.

But it can’t hurt!

Or, if you know a collector needing a Father’s Day present (or the collector looking at you in the mirror), do the same. Show the world who you are.