The new Washington Nationals' Racing Presidents mascot, President Herbert Hoover, center, is seen the race during a game against the Atlanta Braves on April 12. (Alex Brandon/Associated Press)

In his April 23 Free for All letter, "Put off by this reference," Harry Meem asked whether it was meant to be a joke when the April 12 Sports article "The debut of 'Herbie' is a real eye-catcher" suggested that "If the tradition of choosing presidents [to race] sequentially continues, fans can expect to see FDR at Nationals Park next season." Joke or not, I have been saying for years that the Nationals should have Franklin D. Roosevelt race — in a wheelchair.

Roosevelt was among our greatest presidents, and his distinctive appearance (jaunty smile, cigarette holder, pince-nez) would make him a perfect addition to the Racing Presidents. So why haven’t the Nationals added him to this wonderful element of the Nats Park experience? Could it be unease over depicting a disabled man racing in a wheelchair? What better way to honor a man who overcame polio to become one of the greatest leaders of the 20th century — and to celebrate all who face disabilities, including the wounded veterans who are honored at Nats Park — than to put FDR on the field, sometimes winning, sometimes losing, always fighting?

Mark Whitener, Washington