From the minute that Major League Baseball started investigating how Miami's Biogenesis Clinic distributed performance-enhancing drugs fans have been waiting to find out who the first star to be suspended would be. The waiting ended today when MLB suspended 2011 N.L. MVP Ryan Braun without pay for the remainder of the season, according to MLB.com.
The Milwaukee Brewer star is being suspended for "violations of the Basic Agreement and its Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program." Braun is not going to contest the suspension, according to ESPN.
A urine sample that Braun gave during his 2011 MVP season tested positive for synthetic testosterone. His test was off the charts with a 20:1 ratio of testosterone to epitestosterone, the highest level ever recorded for a major leaguer, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
When that positive test was announced Braun was given a 50 game suspension. Braun ended up having the suspension overturned on appeal after it was revealed that the proper procedure had not been followed after obtaining the sample, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
Shortly after the Biogenesis investigation began Braun's name was leaked as one of the names listed in files that had been obtained by MLB. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported that Braun claimed the reason he had done business with Biogenesis was to gain information to prepare for his appeal, today's suspension proves that there was likely more to it than that.
Braun released a statement apologizing to Brewers fans who are in the midst of one of the worst seasons in recent memory as the team sits in lasts place, 18.5 games back.
"I am not perfect. I realize now that I have made some mistakes. I am willing to accept the consequences of those actions. This situation has taken a toll on me and my entire family, and it has been a distraction to my teammates and the Brewers organization. I am very grateful for the support I have received from players, ownership and the fans in Milwaukee and around the country. Finally, I wish to apologize to anyone I may have disappointed - all of the baseball fan especially those in Milwaukee, the great Brewers organization, and my teammates. I am glad to have this matter behind me once and for all, and I cannot wait to get back to the game I love."
In response to Braun deciding to accept the suspension and not appeal it Rob Manfred, Executive Vice President, Economics and League Affairs for Major League Baseball, also issued a statement.
"We commend Ryan Braun for taking responsibility for his past actions," Manfred said. "We all agree that it is in the best interests of the game to resolve this matter. When Ryan returns, we look forward to him making positive contributions to Major League Baseball, both on and off the field."
Braun's suspension will last the remaining 65 games of this season and any postseason games should the Brewers make the playoffs.
