I try to get balls signed at either free signings, ball parks or TTM. At most signings, baseballs are just too expensive, starting at 30 bucks and up. Since I'm on a strict budget for the time being, I will snoop for cheaper or free alternatives.
About almost two years ago, Nick Swisher apperared at the AT&T Store at the Empire State Building in Manhattan for a free signing. I decided to take the day off from work and head on over. Unfortunately, due to subway issues, I arrived late and there was a long line ahead of me. I was outside when I got on line. Lucky for me, AT&T personnel close off the line about 2 people behind me, so that pretty much guarenteed me an auto.
Once inside, the line moved pretty quick. There was a strict one auto per person and you could get your picture taken with your camera with Nick. While on the line, I also entered a contest with the local radio station, Z-100, for Yankees tickets. Not a huge fan of top 40 radio (give me rock music, alternative and new wave anyday), but for Yankees tickets, I would have entered in at a rap station.
Finally, after about a half an hour, I got to meet Nick. I had a baseball for him and he signed right on the sweet spot. I asked him how he liked playing at the then new ballpark and he replied, enthusisaticlly, he loved it and would love to play out his whole career at Yankee Stadium. I got my picture taken with Swish (Horns of course) and shook his hand and left with my new possession.
I was feeling pretty good about meeting Nick when I heard my name being called out. I loudly responded and a gentlemen came up to me informing me I was the winner of the Z-100 contest for tickets to Old Timers Day. Thrillsville! Sure, I would be up on top of the right field upper deck, but who cares, I was at the very first Old Timers Day at the new ball park.
What a great day.
