I got hooked on Bryson a couple years ago, Back when I read more than just N54
A Walk in the Woods actually inspired me to get out more and...yep, walk in the woods. That's how I spend many spring and summer weekends, usually in the Mt St Helens area.
I read 2 others as well, "i'm a stranger here myself" and "the life and times of the Thunderbolt Kid"
Fantastic author, but not likely an expert autograph authenticator.
He's probably just relaying conventional conspiracies.
Of course Babe Ruth autos are being faked! They are valuable, desirable items. The scammers wouldn't make money selling fake autographs from me or you.
Duh!