Olerud deserved better

I can’t believe how poorly the Seattle Mariners treated John Olerud. What kind of low life, no class organization would do something like this? They kicked John off the team right in the middle of the season, in hopes that a youth movement will resurrect this sorry bunch. There is no excuse for treating John in this shabby manner. Don’t they know who he is?

Do we need reminding that John Olerud is that rare athlete of the utmost character, and one of the best ever to come out of the state of Washington?

A native of Bellevue, he starred at WSU as both a hitter and a pitcher while overcoming a life-threatening aneurysm. He went on to have a stellar major league career. He started in the 2001 All-Star game, and as late as last year was awarded his third Gold Glove, for heaven’s sake.

Yes, his numbers were down both last year and this, and this season may well have been his last. But his career should have ended with a fan appreciation day and everyone on his feet cheering one of the finest men you’ll ever see.

I used to care what happens to the Mariners. Not anymore. Not after this. Do they really think they’ll win one more game this season with John gone? Will there be anyone left to care?

Jack A Jennings

Spokane