Ryan Braun is a free agent after this season. The contract that Braun received in 2011 when I still was in college is finally over after the 2020 season. It feels crazy to think about that with Braun being an integral part of our sports fandom for the last eleven years, this will be his 12th. It could also be his last. Braun talked with media yesterday and hinted that he might consider retiring at the end of the season versus continuing his career. If that’s the case, let’s hope for an awesome year from Braun.

Ryan Braun talks about "sense of urgency" with possibility of 2020 being last year with #Brewers and as a player. pic.twitter.com/UetSs7telS

— Tom (@Haudricourt) January 26, 2020

First of all, I love the idea of Braun becoming the first Brewers four life player since Robin Yount. Milwaukee hasn’t had a guy who spent his entire career with the team since Yount. Braun should be revered in the same way amid the scandal, but he’s not. We’ll talk about that topic later this year if we need to though. All I’ll say about Braun this year is let’s enjoy it, man. Try to watch a little more Brewers baseball and when Braun is playing in the game because it is likely that he’s gone after next season. Whether it’s in retirement or playing for another team.

The last Brewers’ home series of the year will be September 15th through September 20th against Atlanta and Pittsburgh. I will do my best to see Braun one more time and find a game where they’re facing a lefty pitcher. I don’t care if they’re not in playoff contention. A part of me needs to say goodbye to one of the Wisconsin sports figures that defined the 2010s for me as a sports fan. I hope that you do the same.

Ryan Braun forever.

Charlie.