Burnt to a Crisp

Red Sox Use Coco's Dad to Sell $59.95 'Red Sox Nation' Cards and
Ailing Coco, Who Has Missed 30 Games, Signed Baseballs for $54.00

"Autograph fees varied per player. The price for Crisp’s signature on an 8 x 10 photo was $44. It cost another $54 to have him sign a baseball or other item. The fee for Youkilis was $29 per photo and $34 per additional item.

“ 'I think it’s pricey. You look at what the athletes are making for a salary, and then they turn and ask $40 for an autograph,' Bob Ouellette of Chelmsford, Mass., said. 'I guess this is their opportunity to make their money. For the most part, it’s worth it. It’s a thrill to see these guys up close.' ” -- 5.14, Kevin Gray, The Union Leader

"I saw the headline about Coco today and wanted to chime in about his charging for autographs. I went down to Spring Training this year, and as soon as he came out of the lineup and finished with his workout, he walked over to the left field stands and signed autographs for everyone who wanted one. On baseballs. For free.

"Maybe this was just a PR move on his part trying to warm up to Red Sox Nation, but he seemed pretty sincere about it. I just wanted to throw that out there. He couldn’t have been more gracious at the time and definitely made my trip to Spring Training worthwhile. Best regards, Lee Lubarsky"