Dear Wayne: I read what you posted from Melvin Bunch's e-mail (Feb. 23).

Seems to me I remember he did the same thing last year -- saying he was ready to play again.

Regardless of the circumstances surrounding his departure in 2002, he will always be looked at as someone who walked out on his team. If he has anything left, he should play minor league ball, and maybe a Japanese team will offer a new contract during the season if he looks dependable.