Autograph Tales:The LaRoche Family

One of the first baseball cards I ever remember was a 1973 Dave LaRoche, who also happened to be one of the first baseball players I ever remember seeing play.  LaRoche's card depicted him in an airbrushed Cubs hat, although I didn't realize that at the time.  The next year, he appeared in a full Cubs uniform on his card.
LaRoche had an excellent career.  He pitched for five teams during his fourteen seasons, compiling a record of 65-58 with 126 saves.  He pitched in two All-Star games and one World Series (in 1981 with the Yankees).
Several years back, I sent LaRoche a baseball and asked him to sign it for me.  I also asked for him to have his sons sign it, if at all possible.  Adam LaRoche and Andy LaRoche were both young prospects, not yet in the majors.  I really didn't expect Dave to go through the trouble of getting both sons to sign my ball, but I figure it was worth a shot.
A few weeks later, I was surprised to see the ball returned so quickly.  I figured there was no way all three had signed it, but I was surprised once again when I saw three LaRoche signatures gracing my baseball.  I got the LaRoche trifecta!
I really appreciate Dave putting in the effort and I appreciate all three signing.  This is one of my favorite signed baseballs.

Dave LaRoche

Andy LaRoche

Adam LaRoche