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Ed Herrmann

A Message From Ed “Hoggy” Herrmann

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Loved that “H”

The former catcher touched many lives of fans and collectors.

The 67-year-old’s December death from prostate cancer was a wake-up call to the collecting community. He was returning autograph requests in failing health, even this autumn. The stellar www.sportscollectors.net website credited him with 198 responses in 203 recorded attempts by hobbyists. 
I’ll never forget all the knowledge “Fort Herrmann” shared for free on his baseball tutoring website. An unheralded coach, he shared one universal truth:
“You’ll never hit the ball with the bat on your shoulder.”
Take your swings this year, readers. Write to them.Later isn’t an everlasting option. Leave regrets on the bench. 
Make Ed smile up there!

Collectors Matter to Ed Herrmann

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How popular was Herrmann with
the ChiSox? I found this art on
wwwmearsonlineauctions.com
this 1972. An estimated 3,000
prints were made and sold!

I wrote about Ed Herrmann, the 1970s backstop who’s trying to help his injured son with medical bills, earlier this month.

I received this hopeful e-mail from the all-star catcher this morning. He wrote:

“Mike Baker shared your blog with me and your note for fans to send donations with autograph requests.  It is a wonderful Christmas surprise each time I receive a donation in the mail.  I can’t thank you enough for sharing this information.  It is a long, long road for my son Jim’s recovery and every dollar is a huge help to him and his family.

Thank you again for your kindness and generosity.
Merry Christmas.

Ed “Hoggy” Herrmann”

This is the season of miracles. Even if you have his autograph, send a thank-you. Send some hope. Money is only one way of helping. Share Jim Herrmann’s story with someone else.

Ed Herrmann
13153 Tobiasson Rd
Poway, CA 92064

I told Ed Herrmann, “I’m sure many people have told you what a good player you were. Let me tell you that I think you’re a good Dad.”

Baseball is only one way of becoming an all-star.

(Thanks to collector and SCN member Mike Baker for his aid with this story!)

Coming Thursday: Why is a membership in www.sportscollectors.net the best holiday gift a hobbyist could imagine?

A Pitch For Catcher Ed Herrmann

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Ed has kept that trademark “H”
in his autograph.

“Yes, I collected cards along with my dad. I still have most of them. Being featured on so many cards confirms that all the work I did as a kid paid off. Of course, if it weren’t for the talent and perseverance God gave me, none of it would have been possible.”

— Ed Herrmann

In 2001, the fiery catcher sent me that memory for my book Collecting Baseball Cards: 21st Century Edition.

In 2011, life has thrown Herrmann a curve.

His son Jim suffered severe injuries in a dirt bike accident.

Herrmann has remained a faithful signer for fans over the years, never demanding a fee. Even though his son’s medical bills must be daunting, Herrmann hasn’t instituted a for-pay policy.

Enclosing a couple of bucks marked for son Jim, whether you’re seeking an autograph or not, would salute the Christmas season. Even if sending money is tough, consider just sending a note. He’s sent fans his best wishes for years. Return the favor to:

Ed Herrmann
13153 Tobiasson Rd
Poway, CA 92064

If you’re sending a baseball to get signed (with a return postage-paid mailer, of course), enclose a healthy donation and ask for a “bio ball.” Ask Herrmann to list his years played, his three nicknames, his first major league hit, the date he caught Larry Dierker’s no-hitter — any career highlights he wants to fill the panels with. You’ll get a unique treasure, along with the joy of helping fuel a comeback.

Coming Wednesday: “10 Most Wanted” — Family Edition.