At the annual Baseball Writers Association of America awards dinner in New York, the Milwaukee Brewers star outfielder Ryan Braun made his first public appearance since ESPN leaked his positive test for a banned substance back in December.
In his speech following the acceptance of the 2011 MVP Award, Braun thankfully didn’t give the award back as ESPN’s Buster Olney suggested earlier in the day, but he did provide some insight on his status through these troubling times.
“I’ve always believed that a person’s character is revealed through the way they deal with those moments of adversity,” said Braun.
Here are the rest of the quotes form the night via Brewers beat writer Tom Haudricourt and his twitter account:
“I’ve chosen in life to view every challenge I’ve ever faced as an opportunity and this will be no different.”
“I’ve always loved and had so much respect for the game of baseball. Everything I’ve done in my career has been done with that reaction in mind.”
“I want to take a moment to thank the players association for supporting me throughout my career and especially for supporting me through last couple months,” added Braun.
Many thought Braun would be booed, but that was not the case at all as he received a healthy applause. The audience also contained many members of the Brewers’ front office, including owner Mark Attanasio and his wife, general manger Doug Melvin and assistant Gord Ash among others.
Unfortunately, baseball fans will have to wait anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to find out the MLB’s ultimate decision on Braun’s positive test for a banned substance.
The arbitration hearing for Braun’s appeal took place this last Thursday and Friday, but there is a 25 day window when the verdict can be decided upon. A 50 game suspension is what looms for the superstar if the appeal is unsuccessful.
With free agent Prince Fielder for sure not returning and a lot of new players in the mix, the Brewers offense may have some trouble out of the gates if Braun is forced to sit the mandatory 50 games.
What did you think of what Ryan Braun had to say? Let me know by commenting below!
Nick Grays is a senior writer at the Sports Bank where he covers the Wisconsin Badgers, Green Bay Packers, and Milwaukee Brewers. He also enjoys to share Fantasy Advice from time-to-time. Follow him on Twitter by clicking here or visit his blog Nick Knows Best.