Walt Weiss and Nick Esasky
MLB Shortstop ( Weiss) and MLB First/Third Baseman (Esasky) · Baseball - MLB
Atlanta Braves
Era
Retirement/Post-career era, likely 2000s-2010s
Item Type
Baseball
Condition
Fair to Good. There is significant yellowing and fading of the Weiss signature (top). The Esasky signature remains legible. The ball shows surface wear and is on a low-quality medium.
Rarity
Common. Both players are prolific signers at card shows and team events.
Overall Assessment
A genuine but low-tier collectible featuring two solid MLB veterans. Its value is hampered by the fading ink and the non-professional grade of the baseball used.
Authenticity Assessment
Likely authentic based on letter formation and shorthand style common for these players in casual settings, though ink fading suggests a secondary market acquisition.
Signature Style
Cursive shorthand. Weiss (top) includes his typical high 'W' and 't' cross; Esasky (bottom) includes his uniform number #6.
Signature Characteristics
Fluid, rapid movement with minimal stop-points. Consistent with older athletes signing in a multi-signature environment. Weiss uses a high-arched 'W' and a trailing 's'. Esasky uses a cursive 'N' and clear '#6'.
Ink & Medium
Blue and black/blue ballpoint ink on a synthetic or lower-grade leather baseball.
Item Description
Rawlings RSLL1 Little League official baseball. This is a non-professional grade ball typically used for amateur play or practice.
Estimated Value
$10 - $25 USD
Comparison to Known Examples
Matches standard post-career signatures found on team-signed balls from the 1990s/2000s Braves alumni events.
Authentication Tips
Look for the sharp upward stroke in the 'W' of Weiss and the distinct loops in 'Nick' followed by the number 6 for Esasky. Forgers rarely target these specific mid-tier veterans.
Certification Recommendation
JSA (James Spence Authentication) or Beckett. However, the cost of authentication would likely exceed the value of the item.
Red Flags
The choice of a Little League (RSLL1) ball rather than an Official Major League (ROMLB) ball reduces desirability but is common for fan-obtained autographs.
Provenance Notes
Likely obtained at a fan fest, spring training, or charity event in the Southeast region given the Braves affiliation of both players.
Historical Context
Weiss was the 1988 AL Rookie of the Year and part of the 1990s Braves dynasty. Esasky had a notable career cut short by inner-ear issues (vertigo).
Market Trends
Stable but low demand. Collectors prefer these signatures on cards or official MLB game balls.
Investment Potential
Low. This is a sentimental fan piece rather than a primary investment asset.
Similar Autographs
Tom Glavine, John Smoltz, Terry Pendleton (other 1990s era Braves).
Display & Preservation
Keep in a UV-protected cube. The top signature is already fading; further light exposure will erase it.
Interesting Facts
Walt Weiss went on to manage the Colorado Rockies; Nick Esasky signed one of the largest contracts in Braves history in 1990 before his career-ending injury after just 9 games.