INBOX

FOR AUG. 25, 2014

Academic issues with student athletes are not new, even at Notre Dame (SCORECARD). So how can you suggest the Fighting Irish are no longer the gold standard—especially given the suspensions of several players who violated rules over the past few years, including quarterback Everett Golson in 2013 for poor academic judgment?

Kerry Walsh, Clinton, Ind.

The mirror that Curtis Malone looks in should be mounted to a concrete wall in a maximum-security prison for a lot longer than 100 months. The fact that he was such an influence on young players, while also trafficking drugs, makes his crimes even more heinous.

Bill Gough, Harrisburg, Pa.

MLB commissioner-elect Rob Manfred need not do much to speed up the game, except make sure all the rules are enforced. Pitchers and hitters often ignore the time-limit rules, while umpires and managers seem to just sit back and watch, causing the game to be drawn out.

Jack Cipoletti, Charleston, W.Va.

Chris Ballard's feature on Kobe Bryant shed light on the issues athletes often deal with as their talents begin to fade. Reading it helped make Kobe appear more normal and presented him in a way that allowed me to better understand the struggles these guys experience as their careers slip away.

Tucker Tashjian Placentia, Calif.

COVER

I enjoyed your piece on Mo'ne Davis. Your cover instructs us to "Remember her name," and we definitely will. I just hope the media will now leave her alone for a few years so she can grow up and enjoy her youth, and hone her obvious talents in relative peace without getting burned out by the glare of the spotlight.

Jim Dahlman Johnson City, Tenn.

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FACES IN THE CROWD

I had to laugh at the honesty shown in your profile of sports fisherman Brett Preuett. I, too, have had to overcome hooking a neck when I fish off our dock with my family. Usually it's my husband's.

Tracey McCormick Alameda, Calif.

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ROYALS BASEBALL

How could you fail to mention former Royals pitcher Gil Meche, who retired in 2011, walking away from the guaranteed $12 million left on his contract? That extra cash also helped to contribute to Kansas City's turnaround.

Norman Anseman Lafayette, La.

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