Letters

Paradise Regained

Kudos for your epic cover shot of Josh Hamilton, with the flames running up his arm and the stadium lights reflected on his helmet. And what could be more fitting for his story of temptation and redemption than a photo in which the only letters you can read on the back of his jersey are milton?
C.J. Renner, Minneapolis

I found it refreshing to read about a baseball player (The Super Natural, June 2) who is succeeding because he stopped using drugs, rather than because he started using them.
Jeff Appelgate, Prosser, Wash.

Hopefully players who have tarnished the integrity of the game will read this story and be inspired to follow Josh Hamilton's example and come clean.
Ryan Martin, Wabash, Ind.

Baseball should change the name of the Comeback Player of the Year Award to the Josh Hamilton Award.
Todd Kurpel, Media, Pa.

I hope that the fans who taunt Hamilton will take a cue from Cubs catcher Michael Barrett, who offered him congratulations for a hometown ovation on his return. That's what sports should be all about.
David J. DiLeo, White Plains, N.Y.

As a recovering alcoholic with 10 years of sobriety, I found Josh Hamilton's story inspiring. If Hamilton sticks to his recovery, there will come a day when he can go out and not be concerned with what other people are drinking. Life will be more than just "Home. Park. Home. Park."
Bob Walton, North Andover, Mass.

Josh, next time you're playing in Toronto, the steak and mineral water's on me.
Dale Thompson, Toronto

Charles in Charge

Charles Barkley is one of the few public figures, in sports or politics, who has owned up to his mistakes without excuses and endless denials (PLAYERS, June 2). He said years ago that he isn't a role model. I disagree.
Pete Zaremski, Mission Viejo, Calif.