Bill Murray auto + others thanks to Carl Crawford Cards

With the MLB Futures Game taking place on Sunday, it seems like an appropriate time to show off some minor league autographs, including one player who made the Futures Game USA roster but had to sit out after taking a pitch to the head earlier in the week.

Paul of Carl Crawford Cards recently reached out to me. He had the opportunity to go to the Low A All-Star Game fanfest in Charleston, as well as the HR Derby on a ship. Paul, knowing I’m a fan of Yankees prospects autographs, graciously offered to try and get a few extras for me. I told him I’d be most appreciative of anything at all he could score for me. Paul went above and beyond.

Paul got me a signed card of every Charleston Riverdogs player at the All Star game! The Riverdogs are loaded this season and had six All Stars, including a few of my favorite prospects and players I had yet to add to my autograph collection. I was not expecting to make out like a complete bandit.

First up, Tyler Austin, the Yankees lone Futures Game rep. He had to sit out due to injury (took a pitch to the head last week). Austin has had a monster year, and was recently promoted to High A Tampa. He was not a member of Baseball America’s Top 100 prospects for 2012, but by midseason was ranked in their top 50. He shows a lot of power and speed, and I look forward to finally having a power hitting outfield prospect to watch. I have been 0 for 2 on Austin TTM attempts, so this felt good.

Next up, my favorite prospect, Mason Williams. I haven’t been lucky enough to get his auto either, so this is a huge addition! The card is sweet - a great diving catch – action you don’t always see on minor league cards. Mason has also been promoted to High A Tampa, along with the next guy.

Gary Sanchez has replaced Jesus Montero as a young, power hitting catching phenom. All indications are that he is a better defender at this age as well. At just 19, Gary had a great start to his second season at Low A, and is now tearing it up in Tampa. This is my second Sanchez auto, as I purchased an Obak certified auto earlier this year.

Next up, a trio of players. Bryan Marshall has some of the best stuff in the Yankees system and could be a decent middle of the rotation guy. I had a TTM success with him last year. I don’t know much about either Guerra or Arcia, but clearly they have showed enough this season to be named to the All Star Team.

Finally, one of the coolest autographs that I now have in my collection. Paul was able to get me Bill Murray’s signature! Yes, Bill Murray. Dr. Peter Venkman. Bob Wiley. Phil Connors. Ernie McCracken. Bob Harris. Steve Zissou. Carl Spackler. Bill is one of my all-time favorites, and although a Cubs fan, I have a fondness for him since he is part owner of the Charleston franchise. Bill is the “Director of Fun” for Charleston, and he played a key role in the All Star festivities. To say I’m excited about owning this card is a vast understatement.

Paul, thanks again for thinking of me and for sending me these cards! They are great additions to my collection.