Angel Fans Want Prime Rib, but They Get Ground Chuck

The Angels’ decision not to deal with Chuck Finley is no great surprise to fans who have followed this sinking ship for the last 30 years.

The Angels have historically shown little class in their treatment of loyal, dedicated, fan-favorite players. I recall the unceremonious dismissals of Nolan Ryan, Carney Lansford, Don Baylor, Bob Boone, and the unkindest cut of all--Brian Downing. The parting of Finley simply continues this pattern.

As an Angel fan, what is left to look forward to? A rotation with Tim Belcher and Ken Hill as the staff’s aces. I can see the home run balls flying right into that Disney waterfall, and hear the hushed murmurs of people wondering who’s steering the ship.

JOHN G. HERNANDEZ

Claremont

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Baseball is no longer a fan sport. Tony Tavares and Bill Stoneman just proved it. I was hoping Stoneman would make a difference, but Tavares pulled the strings and made it happen. Thanks for all you gave Angel baseball, Chuck. Whatever team you end up with, I’ll still root for you. If you pitch against the Angels, I know you will make them regret it.

PATRICK RICO

Santa Fe Springs

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Is it not enough that the Angels regularly field teams that fail to make it to the playoffs? Do they need to salt the wounds of the fans by allowing one of the few quality starters in the league to depart? Finley is not just a pitcher but a pitcher with class. He chose to stay with the Angels for less than his fair market value in the past, and probably would have done the same this time, but the payroll-dumping Angels found that returning Finley’s loyalty would not be on their agenda.

I have always felt that one could not be a true fan of both the Angels and the Dodgers, so with that in mind this fan will begin to bleed Dodger blue rather than Angel periwinkle.

ANDY MARKISON

Huntington Beach