19th Hole: The Readers Take Over

TODDLIN'
Sir:
Being a Chicago baseball fan (Chi, Oh My! July 25) is not a pastime. It is a vocation, a way of life. At a very young age, a Cub or Sox fan learns that pennants are something other teams win. And while the meek may inherit the earth, they have a helluva time turning the double play. Frustration becomes the norm. Disappointment is the constant condition.

But then comes the summer of '77, and we find that the sun sometimes shines on those who persevere, and that some of the drops in the lake of life do sparkle, even in Chicago.
WILLIAM E. CARSLEY
Chicago

Sir.
Ten summers ago I wrote SI to extol the virtues of Eddie Stanky and his "hitless wonders." Unfortunately, the mound artistry of Joel Horlen and Gary Peters did not prove to be enough to carry the Chisox to the pennant. The '77 version of the White Sox, however, is another story. With Wilbur Wood back in form, Richie Zisk and company should have no trouble keeping up the pace through October. When the Series comes to Comiskey Park this fall, you can be sure I'll be there.
JOHN HETH
Columbia, S.C.

Sir:
In your article you failed to mention Jack Brickhouse, the Cubs' commentator. Brickhouse sounds more colorful on TV than Harry Caray, by far.

After all, a "holy cow" feeds on "hey, hey."
T. FURMAN
Barrington, Ill.

Sir:
Thank you for the fine article on the amazing Cubs and Sox. Thanks even more for keeping them off your cover.
RON ZAHLMAN
Franklin Park, Ill.

Sir:
Only three things are definite in America today: death, taxes and the Cubs choking.
BOB JACKSON
Los Angeles

Sir:
It is nice to see teams winning that did not sign any spoiled, rich, crybaby free agents.
DAVE NAGLE
Gladwyne, Pa.

Sir:
It's a shame Peter Gammons had to further tantalize Chicago's steadfast fans with his roseate story. The fact is, they are in for a worse letdown than 1973, only this time the perpetrators will be the Rangers and the Pirates.
BUCKY FOX
Beaumont, Texas

Sir:
At the start of the season, you guys picked the White Sox and Cubs to finish fifth in their divisions. I'm glad to see that you're willing to eat some crow.