MILWAUKEE — Former Milwaukee Brewers left fielder Ryan Braun on Sunday was given an honor only 22 other players have received.
What You Need To Know
- Former Brewers left fielder Ryan Braun finished his career with 352 HRs
- On Sunday, he became the 23rd member of the Brewers Walk of Fame
- He joins big names, like Hank Aaron and Prince Fielder
Braun was inducted into the Brewers Walk of Fame. Braun joins the likes of Hank Aaron and Prince Fielder, Brewers legends who have their names etched in granite outside American Family Field.
Braun was the 23rd Brewers player to be added to the Walk of Fame since the stadium opened in 2001. Braun said he felt blessed to be recognized with the honor.
“I just feel an immense sense of gratitude and appreciation for all the people that have contributed to my success,” Braun said. “I just feel so fortunate to be able to celebrate them, as I really think of this as a group honor.”
His teammates and friends talked about the confidence Braun had when on and off the baseball diamond. Braun said that confidence came from his teammates and family.
“If I had to single anybody out, it’s my parents,” Braun said. “As a parent of three young kids, I realize the sacrifices that you have to make. [My parents] were just always incredibly supportive, showed me so much love and were always there for me when I was young to just support me as I chased my dreams.”
Fans could be seen sporting Braun jerseys around the stadium on Sunday. Many said it was a joy watching him play and to see his name on the Walk of Fame.
“Braun’s been my favorite player since I’ve been here,” fan Dave Waite said. “I’ve seen him several times in spring training, took a picture with him, took it back and got an autograph on it. We came to his retirement. We’re here today to see him honored.”
The recognition highlighted the accomplishments of his career, including his record as an all-time franchise home run leader, with 352 homers. He also helped the Brewers reach the postseason in 2008 for the first time in 25 years.
Braun won the National League MVP Award in 2021, but controversy circulated around the honor after Braun admitted to using performance-enhancing drugs during the season. After serving a suspension, Braun helped lead the Brewers to three straight playoff appearances before retiring in 2020.
Looking back over 14 seasons with Milwaukee, Braun said he couldn’t do it alone.
“I’ve felt kind of very emotional through all of it. I always said while I was playing, I rarely took the time to reflect,” Braun said. “I always tried to stay present, but for an event like this, in a moment like this, there’s been a lot of reflection. I’ve been very emotional and again, just feel so blessed, so fortunate and incredibly grateful.”
Braun earned many accolades during his time in Milwaukee. Now, he’ll forever be honored where he brought joy to those who watched him.