* The reason the NCAA Tournament continues to be our most popular sporting event is because every March the underdog gets an opportunity to shine on the big stage. Harvard and Florida Gulf Coast are just two of many teams in this year’s tourney who have made their schools and conferences proud. I hope the NCAA football people have been watching.
BILL GREEN
East Fishkill, N.Y.
Marvelous Marty
* On Thursday, Devils goalie Martin Brodeur came back from a lengthy absence, took one shot against the Hurricanes and scored — and he made 17 saves to boot. On the same night, the Rangers took 45 shots against the lowly Panthers and scored once. Do the math. I think the never-aging Brodeur would be a fine addition to the Rangers’ first line.
ELIO VALENTI
Brooklyn
Bravo, Bam Bam!
* Hensley Meulens, once considered the next big Yankees power bat, never made it as a player. But watching him carefully navigate his Team Netherlands into the World Baseball Classic final round, showed he has a future as a major league manager. Great job, Bam Bam!
ED BOTTI
Matawan, N.J.
Time to trade
* The Yankees can’t afford to go into the season without a credible power threat. They have the young pitchers to trade for the kind of hitter that can put them into contention and if they don’t make a move, they will sorely regret it.
KEN DREXLER
North Woodmere, N.Y.