Ryan Braun Talks About His ‘Respect’ for Baseball While Accepting Controversial MVP Award

by abournenesn

Jan 22, 2012

Ryan Braun had a weird day on Saturday.

Just hours removed from an appeal hearing with an independent arbitrator regarding his violation of MLB’s drug policy, the Milwaukee Brewers outfielder found himself in downtown Manhattan approaching a microphone for a chance to thank the baseball writers that had voted him the National League MVP. Of course, they had all voted before they learned he tested positive for elevated levels of testosterone.

“You know, sometimes in life, we all deal with challenges we never expected to endure,” Braun said. “We have an opportunity to look at those challenges and view them either as obstacles or as opportunities. I’ve chose to view every challenge I’ve ever faced as an opportunity, and this will be no different.”

While he never explicitly stated what those “challenges” were, it doesn’t take much to read in between the lines on this one. It doesn’t sound like he was referring to his .182 batting average with the bases loaded from last season.

Braun has repeatedly denied that he used performance-enhancing drugs and is appealing his 50-game suspension. But, the BBWAA has decided that no matter what, the award is his to keep.

Photo of the Day

Do you think Braun should have to give back his award? Let’s all ask Matt Kemp.

Ryan Braun Talks About His 'Respect' for Baseball While Accepting Controversial MVP Award

Quote of the Day

“I’ve always loved and had so much respect for the game of baseball. Everything I’ve done in my career has been done out of respect and appreciation in mind, and that is why I’m so grateful and humbled to accept this award tonight.” –Ryan Braun, who may have a tough time playing that “respect” card to the old-timers if his appeal fails.

Tweet of the Day

Don’t worry, Colorado celebrates the holiday too.

Ryan Braun Talks About His 'Respect' for Baseball While Accepting Controversial MVP Award

Video of the Day

Who wants to challenge Ibaka?

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