by PKMitchell

Created on: April 08, 2009

Getting autographs from athletes, especially baseball players, is always exciting. Particularly for the fans who either dream or had dreams of sharing the playing field with their heroes, a hard earned autograph will bring back memories that are, as Master Card puts it, "priceless."

Spring training is a great time to get autographs, as the veteran players are more relaxed and the young players trying to make it to the "Show" are happy to be asked. As Hall of Famer Monte Irvin once said, spring training is "just a happy, happy atmosphere," and that includes the players' more relaxed attitudes toward giving autographs to their loyal fans. Here are a few tips to getting an autograph:

1. Bring a young kid with you. No athlete, not even Mean Joe Green (for those of you over 40), can resist a request from a sincere child. Players have grown rightfully cynical of grown-ups requesting autographs and selling them as soon as they leave the park.

2. Have your pen and paper or program ready for the player to use. Point the writing end away from the player so he can take it without getting poked or inked . There are often lots of people like you trying to do the same thing. Be prepared. Even in spring training, the ball players will not wait for you.

3. Be polite. Nobody likes someone shoving or forcing themselves to the head of the line or over someone standing by the dugouts. Mind your manners. Say "please" and "thank you."

4. Do not ask for autographs while the players are warming up before a game. While you may be on vacation from your work, spring training is part of their job. For many players it is their last chance to impress the managers and coaches, and live their dreams.

5. Hang out after the game. The players are feeling good, even if their team lost. Remember, none of the games in spring training really count. There are fewer crowds calling for their attention once the games are done and the players are then off duty.

You may also be fortunate to have an athlete "sighting" during spring training season. They are more likely to be seen during spring training at a restaurant or a motel lobby. If you are fortunate enough to meet a player outside the ballpark, follow the same rules as above for getting an autograph.

By all means, the most important aspect of getting autographs during spring training is to have fun with it. Most players are like the rest of us. They enjoy the limelight, but they also want to be treated with respect. Show the ball players that respect and you will all be much happier for it.

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