What readers are saying

Seahawks

Reality is, team has long way to go

Why don't we all stop jumping up and down and get a little reality and perspective on the Seahawks.

They really are a 4-12 team, and 4-12 teams need lots of help.

They really did lose several key players to free agency and replaced them with T.J. Housh-whatever.

They really did trade away their best player to Detroit.

They really do have the worst running backs in the NFL — and it's not even close.

They really do have fast-aging former studs at quarterback and left tackle, arguably the two most important positions on the field.

So, let's see, what did they do last weekend?

Drafted a terrific linebacker — to replace the guy they traded away.

Drafted a very good interior offensive lineman. Always important, but not really even close to a need area.

Traded away picks for future picks.

Traded back to get a fast wide receiver who will never crack the starting lineup here.

Drafted a sixth-round QB who will not even make the team.

This team isn't better than the one that went 4-12, and it isn't really set up to be better in the future. Maybe with two high first-round picks next year the Seahawks can start getting good talent in the places they need it.

— Matt Hilditch, Kent

Seattle Rainiers

Golden baseball memories

As one of the few remaining fans of the Seattle Rainiers ballclub, I celebrate the 70th anniversary of winning of the Pacific Coast League Pennant in 1939, which started a grand tradition of five league pennants in 27 years.

Coming from a baseball family — my father pitched bush league in Rexburg, Idaho, and hoped for a career until his elbow gave out — I have loved the game. From the time I was 8 years old and we lived in Rainier Valley, minutes away from Sicks' Stadium, we listened to the games via the colorful descriptions of Leo Lassen. When we could scrounge up enough change, we'd buy bleacher seats.

If not, Dad would pile my brother, Mom and me in the old Buick and drive up to Tightwad Hill, park the car, and listen to Leo on the battery radio. We had peanuts and Cracker Jacks, too, and frequently dinner was part of the menu.

It was a magical childhood, and I cherish every memory of it.

I've been eagerly awaiting the celebration of the 1939 Rainiers at Saturday's Mariners game. It is a special year for me, also. It is my 80th year, most of which I have lived in this beautiful Northwest, following baseball — the All-American Game ... still.

— Joan Em Jensen, Redmond

Twitter

No sports in the sports pages?

With all due respect, Tuesday's front page was dominated by hair loss. Wednesday, half the page was devoted to a graphic introducing us to Twitter. Excuse me, but do you guys know there are NHL and NBA playoffs going on right now?

Please save the human-interest stories for the Living section!

— Ron van der Veen, Seattle

Lindsy Dugan

Raising awareness

I read with interest Sandy Ringer's article on softball player Lindsy Dugan about her life with Alopecia ("Bald and bold," April 28). As a board member of Pat's Fund (www.patsfund.org), a local nonprofit, we are dedicated to raising awareness and finding causes and cures for the more than 80 autoimmune diseases that affect one in five people.

On May 23, Pat's Fund will present Seattle Autoimmunity Day — A Community Dialogue. This educational event is for patients, their families and friends, and anyone with an interest in learning more about this vast class of diseases.

Thank you, Ms. Ringer, for introducing such a positive young lady to the community.

— Alison Cappuccio, Leavenworth