3.25x5.5" generic postcard has inked address on front w/inked message on reverse from a young Richard Merkin asking for Chief Bender's signature. Bender was a starting pitcher from 1903 to 1917, primarily w/Connie Mack's Philadelphia Athletics (though w/stints at the end of his career w/the Baltimore Terrapins of the short-lived Federal League, the Philadelphia Phillies, and the Chicago White Sox). He was later kept on the Athletics' payroll as a scout and occasional coach before his retirement in 1950. Bender was elected to the Baseball HOF in 1953. Postcard has faint June 27, 1953 postmark, and was mailed less than a year before Bender's death in May, 1954. Bender has signed below Merkin's written request in black ink. Card is also signed in black ink by Marion Fricano, a MLB pitcher for the Athletics 1952-1955. Card has lt., even aging and minor corner tip wear. VF. From the Richard Merkin Collection and comes with Hake's COA and JSA LOA.