What Should I Send With My TTM?

[Cobra22nd]

What Should I Send With My Request?
by Chad Griffith (cobra22nd)

Obviously, you should include the item you would like to get signed. Also included should be a SASE. If you want to send any cardboard backing to protect your item, you should probably place that inside the SASE. Try to make it as simple for the person receiving your request as possible. The last thing to include is the most important, the request itself.

I send my requests handwritten on 3x5 index cards. I generally use the same format for all my requests, and I generally request some form of personalization. Most of the time I get a response, the card is not personalized, unfortunately. One reason I request that is to help differentiate my TTM autographs from my IP autographs.

I have a few reasons for using 3x5 cards. Most importantly, it helps keep the note short. Additionally, it provides at least ‘some’ protection to my card. I do not mail cards in toploaders. It’s a waste of money to do so, as you are not guaranteed a response. Additionally, there are players out there who will sign the back of the 3x5 card and send it back with your card. Bonus autographs are always good!

What I have outlined above is how I handle TTMs. This FAQ is based on my experiences only, and yours will vary. I do not actively TTM, the last ones I sent out were 2003, maybe 2004, though I do not recall sending any in 2004. I encourage you to experiment to find the method that works best for you.