Brewers’ star Ryan Braun wins appeal over drug test
Milwaukee Brewers outfielder and National League MVP Ryan Braun won his appeal of a drug test and he will not be suspended.
Braun may be the first player to successfully appeal a drug suspension under Major League Baseball’s policy.
“I am very pleased and relieved by today’s decision,” said Braun. “It is the first step in restoring my good name and reputation. We were able to get through this because I am innocent and the truth is on our side. We provided complete cooperation throughout, despite the highly unusual circumstances.”
Rob Manfred, MLB’s vice president for labor relations, was angered over the ruling.
“As a part of our drug testing program, the Commissioner’s Office and the Players Association agreed to a neutral third party review for instances that are under dispute,” said Manfred. “While we have always respected that process, Major League Baseball vehemently disagrees with the decision rendered today by arbitrator Shyam Das.”
Last season, Braun led the NL with a .994 on-base slugging percentage. He had a career-best .332 with 33 home runs, 111 RBI and 33 steals.
The Brewers gave him with a five-year, $105 million extension in April.
